Equines Exchange Vows in Mare-riage Ceremony

Love was in the air at Dusty Dog Horse Farm on Saturday, July 26, where a very special wedding took place. But this wasn't your typical matrimonial affair — no tuxedos or five-tiered cakes. Instead, guests witnessed the unforgettable union of a mini horse named Scarlett and a mini mule named Crouton in what might be the most adorable farmyard frolic of the season. Located at 700 West Street in Keene, Dusty Dog Horse Farm is a bustling hub for horse lovers. Since its founding in 2006, the farm has grown into a full-service boarding, training and riding lesson facility with 40 horses. "We have a very active summer camp program, three horse shows a year, clinics, riding lessons, boarding, training and pony rides," explained owner Christina Major. "Ten horses are the equine staff for the farm that are used for teaching riding lessons. We also have two mini ponies, a mini mule and sheep on the farm." Among the farm's many humans is Brooklyn, a devoted young rider and proud owner of mini horse Scarlett. Enter Crouton: the new kid on the pasture who immediately fell head over hooves for Scarlett. "Brooklyn came up with a cute idea to have Scarlett and Crouton marry," said Major. And just like that, a pasture-side romance turned into a full-blown equine extravaganza. This wasn't just a simple little wedding — the farm went all out for those two lovebirds. "It involved a lot. Summer camp kids got into it; the adult population of riders got into it. It was a ridiculous and hilarious afternoon," said Major. Guests sat on hay bale pews, watched the ceremony at a hay bale altar decorated with flowers and enjoyed a party space wrapped in streamers. There was even a gift table, where the newlyweds were surely showered with plenty of treats and presents that they didn't even need to register for. And what's a wedding without a wedding party? Scarlett and Crouton's entourage included sheep, the farm's golden retrievers and of course, Velvet, the mini pony. "One of my younger pre-teen riders put together a wedding playlist, and some of the kid riders did a hilarious speech about their relationship. It was a collaborative effort for sure," Major added. And how did the bride and groom feel about all the attention? "They are very acclimated to being surrounded by a lot of people. They both were very wowed by the event but not scared by it. They got so many treats — those two made out!" But this wedding is just one more example of Dusty Dog Horse Farm's legendary flair for the whimsical. "We're known for doing ridiculous things and little events like this. We don't have anything planned yet, but keep an eye out," Major teased. For those looking to witness more equestrian antics, the farm's next horse show is on Oct. 5, and spectators are always welcome. To keep up to date with Scarlett and Crouton and other events planned for the future, follow Dusty Dog Horse Farm on Facebook and Instagram. For information on summer camp and lessons, call Christina Major, 603-852-8029.