13 Ways to Give Your Pet a Role in Your Wedding

Nora Landis-Shack
Feb 02, 2015

When you decide to commit to someone from this day forward, make sure you don’t leave out the other VIP in your life — your pet. Whether you’re a dog lover or a cat lady, there are plenty of ways to give your pet a role in your big day. Here are our top ideas (not to mention some pretty adorable photos) to give you a little inspiration.

Did you guys meet at the dog park? If that fateful first meeting involved animals, you should take it back to the original spot with both of your pups in tow. (Photo via Dex Knows)

Whatever your story may be, your non-human friends probably have played some part in your life together. As you embark on your next phase in life, make sure they still get included in the festivities. (Photo via Brenda’s Wedding Blog)

We guarantee your family members will love seeing a cute animal face in your engagement announcement. (Photo via Boho Weddings)

Heck, maybe even let your pet announce the engagement for you! (Photo via Bridal Guide)

Even if your pet isn’t amused, it’s hard to ignore the grumpy cuteness of a cat with balloons and its begrudging congratulations. (Photo via Pop Tastic Bride)

Save the Date

Speaking of pets making announcements, how about this adorable trend? While they may not be able to shout your news from the rooftops, they can certainly help you tell the world about your engagement. A simple hand-written sign will do the trick (and give you a chance to show off your DIY and calligraphy skills). (Photo via Wedding Bells)

Making an Entrance

A wagging tail and a well-written sign will let your guests know the bride is finally arriving. (Photo via Apple Brides)

Ring Bearer

If you trust your animal friend enough to bring the rings, let them walk down the aisle and present them to you. The chorus of “awwws” as they arrive at the altar will be well worth the many, Many, MANY training sessions. (Photo via Wedding Bells)

Or, if your pet has more of an indoor personality, capture them with the rings before the big day so they can play their part. (Photo via Style Me Pretty)

The Star of the Show

Now we get to the good stuff. Incorporating animals into your big day is a great chance to celebrate your pets or add a bit of warm fuzziness to your day. (Photo via Juno and Joy)

They can even help you tie together your wedding theme. A little something blue, anyone? (Photo via Borrowed and Blue)

Give your pets a chance to dress up for the big event and get their moment in the spotlight. (Photo via The Lovely Bay)

Don’t forget to save a dance for your best non-human friend. (Photo via Wedding Bells)

Have any fun stories to share about animals at your reception? Tell us in the comments below!

Selena Gomez Had No Clue She Manifested Her Engagement Ring In 2015

Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco are engaged — and the best part of the whole celebration has been seeing the reactions. Taylor Swift has made an official request to be flower girl, while Hailey Bieber showed some surprising love for the couple on Instagram. But Selena's reactions have been the sweetest of all. We've already seen some photos of a very-excited Selena from the night Benny proposed, but the producer just posted a couple of videos that will totally change how you look at the engagement.

Keep scrolling to see all the details on Selena Gomez's engagement ring — and Benny Blanco's proposal surprise!

Selena Gomez actually sang about her future engagement ring in 2015.

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A post shared by benny blanco (@itsbennyblanco)

Benny Blanco shared a video of Sel after the proposal as they cheers two glasses of champagne, and Selena Gomez's engagement ring is on full display! I'm also obsessed with the fur coat she wore to the date — it's the perfect shade of bridal white.

The marquise diamond is the perfect cut for Selena because it's both classy and modern but it's also unexpected and romantic all in one. And fans are calling out how Selena sang about marquise diamonds in 2015's "Good For You," so she basically manifested her ring and didn't even know it.

How many carats is Selena Gomez's engagement ring?

Selena Gomez's engagement is estimated to be around four carats, according to Julia Hackman Chafé, a jewelry content creator and gemstone wholesaler (via TODAY). The larger marquise diamond is set on a chunky gold band made up of smaller .25 carat stones. Gorgeous! And if you're wondering how much is Selena Gomez's ring? “The diamond itself, if Benny chose a high-quality diamond, is probably around $75,000 and up,” Chafé said.

Benny Blanco also revealed his proposal to Selena wasn't your average picnic.

Benny also posted a behind-the-scenes look at his Taco Bell proposal picnic, and revealed the proposal took place on a soundstage! Talk about a real-life romantic movie moment. Ever since he popped the question, Selena's been "glowing," and these new videos and all the photos are totally proving it.

“They’re so supportive of each other,” a source told Peopleafter the couple got engaged. “He wants the best for her and she wants the best for him. They’re perfect together. They really are.” I just love love.

Did you know Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco's proposal was in a soundstage?! I literally had no idea, but I love that Benny was able to make it perfect. Check out our weekend email newsletter for more pop culture & celebrity news!

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12 Abercrombie & Fitch Party Dresses That Are Literally Perfect For NYE

As much as I love the wholesome parts of the holidays (like decorating Christmas cookies and opening gifts in the morning), one of my absolute favorite parts about the end of the year is ringing in a new one. 2025 is on its way, baby, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already scheming up a New Year's party plan. The key to a good time is definitely having a great outfit – and these 12 Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses are actually perfect for the occasion. I’m talkin’ sequins, mesh, and even leopard print.

Get ready to stand out this season in these drop-dead gorgeous Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Drop-Waist Maxi Dress

Drop waists will always get me. Plus, they're so flattering! This flowy maxi can be conveniently worn with or without straps to suit your personal style.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Sheer Hem Mini Dress

The scooped neckline on this stunning mini dress is mirrored along the back, which dips a bit lower for a sultry vibe. Pair with some basic heels, and your 'fit is complete.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Collared Zip-Up Midi Dress

The ruching along the front of this zip-up dress is super flattering, drawing eyes to your waistline. The high leg slit feels flirtatious as ever, which could be just the vibe you're needing for your New Year's plans.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Slip Maxi Dress

Slip dresses are simply timeless and so easy to style. Lean more '90s with this foxy leopard print. I'd def wear it with some black boots and a black faux fur jacket for the drama (and more importantly, the warmth).

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Mesh Maxi Dress

This meshy maxi comes with a mini-length slip along the inside so you won't have to constantly worry about coverage. The material still shows your skin in all the right places!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Pleated Skort Dress

This preppy piece can easily be played up for a party – if anything, I think the tailored look gives the impression that you're super polished. Slip into this strapless skort dress (yep, there's built-ini shorts!), step into some cute kitten heels, throw on a shaggy coat, and you're set!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Satin Mini Dress

I could see this one working just as well for a Christmas dinner as it would for a rather lit New Year's get-together. The off-the-shoulder look is simply so sweet!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Straight Neck Sequin Midi Dress

Sequins. Need I say more?! You'll immediately stand out among the crazy New Year's crowds in this fancy, disco ball-esque frock.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Off-The-Shoulder Rhinestone Maxi Dress

If full-on sequins aren't quite your thing, you can still put on a bit of shimmer with this dress that's dotted in tiny rhinestones. It comes in this amazing nude color or black to best suit your style!

Abercrombie & Fitch

High-Neck Satin Sculpt Midi Dress

While the front of this sleek midi is more modest, the back features an open design that lets you show some more skin. It's definitely on the elegant side, so I'd advise wearing it to a fancy cocktail hour or more low-key NYE party this year.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Emerson Off-The-Shoulder Skort Dress

Polka dots always feel super energetic to me, so if you want to be the one to get the party started, this is the dress for you! Plus, it'll make for some super cute Instagram pics. The design includes some built-in shorts, so coverage won't be an issue throughout the night.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Embellished Strapless Mini Dress

Oh, this one is perfect. The tiny rhinestone embellishments will certainly have heads tuning your way.

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Selena Gomez Is Still "Glowing" After "Surprise" Benny Blanco Proposal

There's one popstar who's ready to get her "love on" — Selena Gomez is engaged! And in addition to Taylor Swift throwing her hat in the ring for flower girl and Hailey Bieber seemingly sending love to the happy couple, Selena continues to feel great as we get closer to the big day. Here's the latest news on Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco's engagement, because I simply can't get enough.

Here's how Selena Gomez's feeling after her engagement to Benny Blanco — and how they celebrated.

Benny Blanco's proposal to Selena Gomez proves how well he knows her.

Benny Blanco reportedly popped the question on December 11, and we know from Selena's photo dump that the engagement began in a park with a Taco Bell picnic. And honestly? I've never had more respect for someone. And ever Selena Gomez's ring found its permanent home on her finger, sources says she's been "glowing."

“They’re so supportive of each other,” a source tells People. “He wants the best for her and she wants the best for him. They’re perfect together. They really are.”

These two know each other inside and out, and considering Benny Blanco grabbed Sel's favorite meal from Taco Bell, the proposal proves it! "It was very her," another source says. "It was a total surprise to Selena."

It's those tiny moments that are the most romantic to me because they prove you're willing to go the extra distance on tiny details other people would overlook. "Benny and Selena were so excited to share the news right away with their loved ones," the source continues, mentioning that the couple had an "impromptu gathering" with some friends and family members after Selena said yes. "It's such a true partnership between them."

And Selena Gomez has talked about how much Benny Blanco means to her.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Selena Gomez (@selenagomez)

Selena Gomez has spoken about how much Benny means to her, saying "he is my absolute everything in my heart" in the comments of an Instagram fanpage, while Benny told Howard Stern in May 2024 that he couldn't imagine his life without Selena in it. "I just know that when I look at her, I just say, ‘I don’t know a world where it could be better than this.’ That’s what I always say to her.”

And in March 2024, Selena Gomez posted the sweetest tribute for Benny's birthday, honoring his "emotional endurance, positive disposition, unbelievable talent (that blows me away), undeniable humor and loving, kind heart." Now they get to spend every birthday together!

Check out Hailee Steinfeld and Josh Allen's amazing proposal pictures for more celebrity engagement goodness.

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16 Gifts Under $15 That Will Still Impress Your Bougie Friends

Who says thoughtful gifts have to come with a hefty price tag? With a little creativity (and even more searching online), you can find some pretty neat gifts under $15 that are sure to impress. These budget-friendly finds pack a big personality into a small price.

Check out the 16 best gifts under $15:

These are our top favorite gifts under $15!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Bistro Tile Monogram Mug

Nothing beats a personalized gift. Even if it's just their initial on a stylish mug like this one, they're gonna love it. Morning coffees will never be the same!

Anthropologie

Daily Practice Athletic Icon Socks

These socks will allow your giftee to truly start their day off with a smile. They're perfect for workouts, walks, or even just lazy days spent at home.

Flewd

Flewd Ache-Erasing Bath Soak

This bath soak is specially designed to work out and relieve tight knots in muscles and achy joints – the perfect gift under $15 for your pals who are always nagging about their back pain.

Amazon

Compendium ThoughtFulls Pop-Open Cards

This deck of thoughtful pop-open cards delivers 30 different inspiring messages that are sure to brighten anyone's day.

Amazon

Tony's Chocolonely Chocolate Bar Variety Pack

This sustainably-made chocolate that comes in cheery rainbow packaging is an instant boost (sugar rush included) for anyone's holiday season. You could even divide up this 6-pack among different family members and friends for a tasty stocking stuffer.

Anthropologie

Capri Blue Mini Volcano Hand Cream

This stuff smells like heaven. Now, with this travel-size tube, they can take Capri Blue's iconic Volcano scent anywhere.

Urban Outfitters

Craighill Wilson Brass Keyring

For the always put-together and design forward, this brass keyring pushes the boundaries of what you thought you knew about carabiners.

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10 Easy Thrifted Gift Ideas That Will Mean Way More Than A Gift Card

As we dive into gifting season, I’d argue that gifting something old can oftentimes be a lot better than gifting something new. Sure, that Black Friday deal is gonna help yousave some money on a brand-new gaming set for him – but you can reserve heapsmore once you step foot in a thrift store.

Any thrift store near you is going to have a very unique selection of items that can actually be flipped (or, in some cases, given as-is) to make ahh-mazing gifts. You’ll be surprised at each item’s uniqueness and the ease of each project.

Discover 10 new ways to incorporate thrifted gift ideas into your holiday haul this year!

Tips For Finding Thrifted Gift Ideas

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

I’d say keeping an open mind about your potential finds before venturing off to your local secondhand store is super important for executing these thrifted gift ideas.

If you’re shopping for a candle holder to gift with something too specific in mind, you may find yourself in an endless and unsuccessful search for the “perfect” piece. Instead, be open to combing through the knick-knack shelves and clothing racks – you never know what you may find!

Use the 10 thrifted gift ideas ahead to directly guide your gift-making journey, or let each one inspire you to find your own gift!

Roman Odintsov / PEXELS

1. Use thrifted jars to put homemade jam, spice mixes, or snacks in.

Mason jars and other kitchen-y vessels are some of the most common items at the thrift. Pick up several this season, clean them off, then use them for holding homemade food goods to gift! You could even use some to put plant cuttings in.

Anna Shvets / PEXELS

2. Fill up thrifted vessels like mugs, vases, and bowls to pour candles in.

Making your own candles is actually super easy once you have the materials. Just melt some candle wax with some (or no) fragrance over a fixed wick that you've placed in a thrifted container. Everyone loves a cozy lil' candle!

Yaroslav Shuraev / PEXELS

3. Thrift and gift a pre-loved jewelry box alongside a new or handcrafted jewelry piece.

This thrifted gift idea will really impress, especially if you're able to find a unique jewelry box, or one in your giftee's personal style. As far as jewelry goes, you could make your own beaded necklace or earring set, or check out our favorite statement earringsfor inspiration.

Bon Bons Studio / PEXELS

4. Add matches and a striker to a small vessel for a unique match holder.

A box of 300 matches goes for about $10 online, and a dozen striker stickers are about $6. Get the most out of your dollar by thrifting a ton of small vessels (like a shot glass or shallow teacup dish), adding the matches and strikers to them, then gifting out multiple to friends and coworkers.

Karolina Grabowska / PEXELS

5. Thrift a velvet garment to cut into strips for handmade bows.

You can transform a $2 shirt into countless bows )for making hair clips and/or gift toppers) by following a simple bow-making tutorial. Sometimes you can even find unused gift bags and boxes in between the aisles to save on wrapping.

Laura James / PEXELS

6. Thrift cookie tins for all the holiday treats you’ll make (and gift) this season.

Cookie tins and food storage containers are always hiding out at the thrift store. Snag a few and wash them thoroughly before stuffing them full of sweet treats (I always go with puppy chow/muddy buddies) to share! You can also use cookie tins and plastic containers as complete gift wrapping for anything small.

Valerie Voila / PEXELS

7. Find some candlestick holders or candelabras, clean them off, then gift them with a few candlesticks.

'Tis the era of candlesticks. Candelabras are hot right now, and you're bound to find some on the thrift store shelves. Add them to cart, clean them off, then gift them with a pair of candlesticks tied with a ribbon bow for a cute touch.

Disha Sheta / PEXELS

8. Thrift a picture frame and use it to hold a collage, a painting, or a photo that’s special to the recipient.

It's not hard to find old picture frames or prints that are still intact. Framing a photo you have of a favorite memory with your gift recipient or a place they love could really hit home and win their heart over! This example with pressed leaves and flowers is adorable, too.

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

9. If your giftee is a fashionista, scour the thrift store racks for some cool and unique pre-loved garments.

You could even package a few as a ‘style bundle.’ Bonus points if they’re winter-friendly! Just make sure you give everything a good wash before gifting them.

Timur Weber / PEXELS

10. Use thrifted bottles to put homemade infused liquors in.

Just add any flavor combination you’d like (lemon + vodka, jalapeño + tequila, candy cane + vodka, coffee grounds + vodka) to some clean, thrifted, and airtight glass bottles – the more elegant the better – and let it steep for up to a month for a single-batch spirit.

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This post has been updated.

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