February is all about love. At Cincinnati Parks Foundation, we believe love comes in many forms—especially the furry, four-legged kind, the kind that wags its tail, gives sloppy kisses and is always happy to see you! We know that some of the best love stories include four paws and a whole lot of devotion. This Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating three couples who made their dogs part of their wedding and anniversary traditions. These adorable #CincyBarks contestants prove that love is even sweeter when shared with a pup!
Lucy the Picnic Bandit
Brooke and her husband tied the knot at the stunning Ault Park Pavilion, with rain adding an extra touch of romance to their big day. While their Aussie-Poodle mix, Lucy, was just a puppy at the time and couldn’t be part of the ceremony, she’s been included in every anniversary since!
Every May, the couple returns to Ault Park for a special picnic, revisiting the spot where it all began. They bring out handwritten messages from their wedding guests they haven’t opened before and read them together while soaking in the beauty of the park. As their family grows, their anniversary tradition does too—this year, their son joined in on the festivities! And Lucy? She makes sure to participate in her own way—by sneaking bites of the picnic spread when no one’s looking!
Moe the Wedding Crasher
Nikki and her husband chose Alms Park as the perfect backdrop for their wedding photos, and their loyal pup, Moe, wouldn’t have missed it for the world! Moe has been by Nikki’s side from the very beginning of their relationship. Originally her dog, he quickly bonded with her husband and became an inseparable part of their little family.
Even though they don’t live close to Alms Park, they make it a point to visit every few months to relive the magic of their wedding day. But Moe is a true park connoisseur—he grew up romping around Burnet Woods and now enjoys his golden years exploring French Park. While he may be a little grumpier these days, a park visit always brings out his puppy spirit!
Stanley: The Paw-fect Best Man
Ashley and her husband share their lives with two energetic corgis, Stanley and Lucille, filling their Cincinnati home with boundless love and joy. Stanley, the older of the two, was the couple’s honorary wedding guest, so they made sure to choose a pup-friendly venue where they could celebrate with him.
The best part of getting married in Ault Park? Being able to return whenever you want to relive those cherished moments! For their first anniversary, they packed a picnic and celebrated in the same beautiful setting. But, it is Alms Park, their neighborhood escape, where you can find them strolling daily. In fact, their wedding guests from afar were treated to a picnic in the park the day before the ceremony—because nothing brings people together quite like love, laughter and fresh air!
Photos of Stanley: Jen Kruskamp Photography
Celebrate Love in Cincinnati Parks
These stories are proof that parks make the perfect setting for love—whether you’re saying “I do,” celebrating an anniversary, or simply enjoying a stroll with your pup. Ready to create your own unforgettable moments? Check out our guide to five date ideas in Cincinnati Parks and start planning your next adventure!
And don’t forget—our next #CincyBarks competition kicks off in March! Stay tuned for more tail-wagging fun and another chance to showcase your pup’s adventures in our beautiful parks!