By Kevin Smith
A wedding moment that captured hearts around the world unfolded on July 1, thanks to a surprise orchestrated by bride Madeline Savage Meineke.
The touching scene was captured by Atlanta-based wedding videographer Claudia Goodwin of Claudia Goodwin Films. The video, which has quickly become a social media sensation with over one million likes, shows 30-year-old groom Quinn Meineke standing with his back turned, eagerly awaiting his first look with his bride. Instead, he is greeted by his beloved dachshund, Penny, dressed in a charming white outfit.
As Quinn turns around, his face lights up with joy upon seeing Penny. He immediately kneels to embrace her, overwhelmed with emotion as Penny showers him with affectionate kisses.
Goodwin, who shared the moment on Instagram, wrote, “As a dog momma myself, I have a soft spot for weddings that include their pups. Madeline was thrilled to surprise her groom with their dog, Penny, during what was supposed to be their bride and groom first look. Just wait until you see how Penny reacts to seeing her Dad!”
The heartwarming exchange struck a chord with viewers. “His reaction was so pure and genuine,” one comment read. Another praised Penny’s patience: “The way she waits for him to turn around is just priceless.”
Goodwin, who recently launched her business, reflected on the moment. “Quinn was so nervous, expecting to see his bride. When he turned around and saw Penny, it was like a wave of relief and happiness washed over him. You could see how much he adores her.”
Meineke himself was taken by surprise. “I had no idea Penny was going to be part of the wedding until I turned around that day,” he told TODAY.com. He and his now-wife, Madeline, had initially thought it might be too complicated to include Penny in the ceremony.
“She’s such a huge part of our lives,” Meineke explained. “We got her early in our relationship, and having her there meant a lot to us.”
Due to strict rules at their Catholic church ceremony—where even flower petals were prohibited—the couple had given up on the idea of having Penny present. However, Savage Meineke had a clever backup plan.
“I bought the dress for Penny and decided to keep it a surprise,” she said. “Since our first look was outside, it was the perfect opportunity to include her.”
On April 6, 2024, Savage Meineke brought Penny to the church grounds for the surprise. “It was the highlight of the day,” she said. “Whenever someone asks about the wedding, it’s the first look with Penny that we talk about.”
Savage Meineke was surprised by the buzz around Penny’s outfit. “People kept asking about her dress,” she noted. “They said she was the second best dressed little lady, after the bride, of course.”
The heartwarming video of Quinn and Penny’s reunion continues to spread joy, showcasing the special place pets hold in their owners’ lives.
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