How (and Why) to Include Your Dog in Your Elopement
For a fun, meaningful, and unforgettable experience
Eloping is all about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic, intimate, and uniquely yours—and for many couples, that includes the four-legged members of the family. I have created this post, How (and Why) to Include Your Dog in Your Elopement, to inspire and guide couples who want to celebrate their love alongside their furry family members. Dogs bring a special kind of joy to any occasion. Their playful energy and unconditional love instantly brighten the day and create moments full of laughter and warmth. Including your pup in your elopement isn’t just adorable—it’s meaningful. They’re a part of your life, your adventures, and your heart, so having them by your side during one of the most important days of your life makes the experience even more memorable.
The Benefits of Including Your Dog in Your Elopement
From candid, joyful photos to unforgettable memories of your furry friend romping through your ceremony location, dogs add a personal, heartfelt touch that truly captures the spirit of your love story. Their playful energy and natural happiness bring spontaneity and lightheartedness to your elopement, creating moments that feel genuine and fun. Whether they’re walking down the aisle with you, chasing waves on the beach, or just snuggling by your side during vows, your dog’s presence turns your elopement into a celebration for your whole family—fur included.
• Dogs bring joy and playfulness to your day
• Emotional support and comfort
• Encourages natural, candid moments
• Adds personality and fun to photos
• Reflects your lifestyle
• They will be your happiest guest
• They can sign as your witness! (in Colorado)
• Makes your day feel more personal and complete
At the end of the day, your elopement is all about celebrating your love in a way that feels truly yours. Including your dog adds a layer of joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments that can’t be replicated, turning your special day into an adventure for the whole family. From playful romps to quiet snuggles, dogs bring authenticity and happiness to every moment, making your memories even more unforgettable. I hope this guide, How (and Why) to Include Your Dog in Your Elopement, helps make your planning process easier and inspires you to include your furry best friend in your special day.
Dogs Bring Joy and Playfulness to Your Day
Dogs are masters at spreading happiness. Their excitement, wagging tails, and playful energy create an atmosphere of pure joy that’s contagious for both you and your guests. Having your dog as part of your elopement adds a level of spontaneity and authenticity that’s hard to replicate. From playful romps on a sandy beach or grassy meadow to sneaky kisses during your vows, dogs naturally create candid, heartfelt moments that make your photos and memories truly one-of-a-kind. Beyond just adorable antics, their presence reminds everyone to slow down, laugh, and enjoy the day as it unfolds. Whether they’re chasing after leaves, exploring a mountain trail, or simply snuggling at your feet during the ceremony, your dog’s love and enthusiasm infuse your elopement with warmth, fun, and a sense of family that will be remembered long after the day is over.
Emotional support and comfort
Your dog can provide invaluable emotional support and comfort throughout your elopement day. Dogs have a magical way of calming nerves and easing stress. Their familiar presence brings a sense of grounding and reassurance, making every moment feel more relaxed and joyful. Whether they’re snuggling close during intimate moments or playfully exploring alongside you, your dog adds a layer of emotional warmth that makes your elopement truly personal and unforgettable.
Their comforting presence is a gentle reminder that your elopement isn’t just about perfection—it’s about connection, shared happiness, and celebrating your love with all the family that matters, furry friends included.
Encourages natural, candid moments
Dogs have a way of bringing out natural, candid moments during your elopement. Their curiosity, energy, and playful antics create spontaneous laughter and genuine reactions that can’t be staged. Whether they’re running along trails, jumping in excitement, or nuzzling close, your pup adds authenticity and warmth to every moment.
Their presence helps you relax and stay in the moment, allowing your love and emotions to flow naturally. With your pup by your side, the day feels more playful, heartfelt, and true to who you are as a couple, creating memories and photos that are uniquely yours.
Adds personality and fun to photos
Including your dog in your elopement instantly adds a layer of fun and excitement to the day. Their playful energy and curiosity bring spontaneity to every moment. Dogs naturally create moments full of laughter and candid memories. Their playful antics, unexpected “photobombs,” and contagious enthusiasm bring energy and joy to your day, making every moment feel alive, spontaneous, and truly unforgettable. Having your furry best friend involved ensures that your elopement isn’t just beautiful—it’s lively, memorable, and full of moments that will make you smile every time you look back at your photos.
Reflects your lifestyle
Including your dog in your elopement is a beautiful reflection of your true lifestyle and the life you share together. It shows your love for adventure, nature, and the bonds that make your family whole — human and furry alike. By having your pup with you, your day feels authentic and personal, capturing the essence of who you are as a couple and the love you share with every member of your family.
They will be your happiest guest
One of the best parts about including your dog in your elopement is that they’ll be your happiest guest. Unlike human guests who might feel nervous, rushed, or distracted, your dog shows pure, unfiltered joy in every moment. They’ll wag their tail at your vows, bounce with excitement during portraits, and shower you with affection when you need it most. Their happiness is contagious, uplifting everyone around them and creating a lighthearted, celebratory atmosphere. Having your furry friend by your side ensures that your special day is filled with laughter, love, and the kind of joy that only a loyal dog can bring.
They can sign as your witness! (in Colorado)
In Colorado, couples have a unique option to include their dog in their wedding ceremony by letting them “sign” as a witness with a paw print. This works because Colorado’s self‑solemnizing marriage laws don’t require witnesses, making it a fun and memorable way to officially include your furry family member. While Colorado is the most well-known for this, a few other states have flexible marriage laws that allow couples to creatively involve their pets in symbolic ways.
It’s always important to check with your county clerk’s office when obtaining your marriage license to ensure everything is done correctly and legally. While including your dog with a paw print or as a symbolic witness can be a fun and meaningful addition, confirming the rules with the clerk ensures your license remains valid and your special day goes smoothly. This simple step helps you celebrate creatively while still following all legal requirements.
The Benefits of a Dog-Friendly Photographer
As a photographer who loves animals, I focus on helping your dog feel completely comfortable and at ease. When someone truly understands and appreciates your pups, they don’t just take photos of them—they notice the tiny, meaningful moments you might miss. An animal-loving photographer approaches your dog with patience, warmth, and curiosity, creating an environment where your pup feels relaxed and free to be themselves. That trust shows in every image. Instead of stiff poses or rushed moments, you’ll end up with heartfelt, personality-filled photos that reflect your bond in the most honest way.
When your dog feels calm and comfortable, it brings out genuine smiles and laughter from everyone. A relaxed pup mirrors the energy of their humans, making the day feel joyful, easygoing, and full of connection. By creating a calm and welcoming environment, your dog can be themselves, and you’ll get those authentic, playful moments that make your elopement photos truly unforgettable.
Elopements Were Made for Dogs
Elopements are perfectly suited for dogs, especially because they often take place in the great outdoors. Unlike traditional indoor weddings, outdoor elopements give your furry friend the freedom to explore, run, and play while still being part of your special day. Whether you’re exchanging vows on a mountain trail, strolling along a sandy beach, or wandering through a forest, the natural surroundings provide endless opportunities for your dog to enjoy themselves and add energy and joy to your celebration. Outdoor elopements allow for more relaxed, spontaneous moments—dogs can sniff, explore, and interact with their environment, creating candid and heartwarming memories that are impossible to replicate indoors. The fresh air, open space, and natural beauty make it easy for your dog to be fully present and excited, turning your elopement into an adventure for the whole family, fur included.
Choosing a Dog-Friendly Location
The great news is that many elopement locations welcome dogs, making it easier than ever to include your furry best friend in your special day. There are countless beautiful spots where your dog can safely join the adventure. Many national parks also allow dogs, though usually on specific trails or in designated areas, so you can still enjoy breathtaking landscapes while keeping your pup safe and happy.
When choosing a location, consider your dog’s personality and energy level—some dogs love open spaces to run and explore, while others prefer a calm, shaded area to relax beside you. Look for spots with access to water, shade, and quiet corners where your pup can rest between photos or ceremony moments. By selecting a dog-friendly location, you’re not just ensuring your pet can be part of your elopement—you’re also creating a joyful, stress-free day full of adventure and unforgettable memories for everyone in your family.
Packing Essentials for Your Dog
To make sure your pup has the best experience on your elopement day, pack a small kit with all their essentials. Bring plenty of water and a portable bowl so they can stay hydrated, along with their favorite treats or snacks to keep their energy up and reward good behavior. A secure leash or harness is important for navigating trails, busy areas, or any spots with wildlife. It also helps to carry a blanket or towel so your dog has a cozy place to rest between moments. And of course, don’t forget waste bags to keep the area clean and leave no trace. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your dog happy, comfortable, and ready to share the adventure with you.
Things to Pack for Your Dog
• Portable water bowl and plenty of water
• Treats and snacks (food for longer adventures)
• Leash and harness
• Poop bags
• Dog wipes (great for cleanups, especially if using dog-friendly ink pads)
• A blanket, toy or comfort item
• Weather-specific gear (jacket, booties, cooling vest, etc.)
• Dog-friendly first aid kit (just in case)
Makes your day feel more personal and complete
Including your dog in your elopement helps make your day feel truly complete. They aren’t just a pet — they’re a cherished member of your family, and having them with you on your special day honors the love and bond you share. Their presence makes your celebration feel personal, heartfelt, and perfectly yours. Amid the excitement and emotions, their presence is grounding, a reminder of home, love, and the life you share together.
I hope this post on How (and Why) to Include Your Dog in Your Elopement inspires you to invite your furry best friend along for the journey. After all, they’re more than pets—they’re family, and celebrating with them makes your elopement even more meaningful and magical.
What it’s like working with a Pet-Friendly elopement photographer
Stress-Free Planning Process
Planning an elopement can feel overwhelming, but I will make it completely stress-free. Together, we’ll plan a day that’s relaxed, joyful, and paw-friendly, so your pup can be part of the celebration too.
Knowledge of the Area
I know the trails, secret viewpoints, and perfect backdrops, including the best dog-friendly spots, so your pup can safely join the adventure while you capture stunning memories.
Trails and Weather Expertise
From trail conditions to weather and optimal lighting, I plan every detail with you and your dog in mind, ensuring a seamless, safe, and unforgettable day.
Travel & Accommodation Support
I guide you on logistics, travel, and dog-friendly accommodations so you and your furry companion can fully enjoy your adventure without stress.
Packing Advice
In addition to your own essentials, I’ll guide you on what to bring for your pup so they’re happy, comfortable, and ready for the adventure.
Hey lovers!
I’m Amy Bluestar – Your Dog-Loving
Adventure Elopement Photographer
I’m Amy Bluestar, your adventure elopement photographer creating one-of-a-kind, adventure-driven elopements for couples around the world.
At every step, my goal is the same, to create a day that’s completely yours, full of adventure, and one you’ll never forget.
Based in Colorado, I’ve traveled to 18 countries and counting.
“she flawlessly incorporated our dog into like 50% of our pictures, it was awesome.”
I cannot express how my much of an asset Amy was the entire elopement process. She helped me pick locations, plan the day, stay sane, and delivered with the most beautiful photos. My entire family also commented on how professional, uplifting, and calm Amy was on our day. Thank you Amy!! (p.s. she also flawlessly incorporated our dog into like 50% of our pictures it was awesome).
– Rachel & Austin
Get in touch
Thinking about eloping in Telluride? Reach out, I’d love to help!
Your photographer, planner & guide and dog-mom. xo Amy Bluestar
Your Adventure Elopement Photographer
Hey lovers!
I’m Amy Bluestar- your adventure elopement photographer specializing in crafting one-of-a-kind elopements for couples who love adventure.
Every step of the way, my goal is the same: to create a day that feels completely yours and a story you’ll remember forever.
Crafting Dream Elopements
Choosing to elope is an exciting step, and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions, not knowing exactly where to start, what will be the right fit for you, or how to figure out all the details. That’s why I’m here! My goal is to make the entire process not just stress-free, but fun, adventurous, and unforgettable, crafting a day you’ll never want to end.
With personalized guidance, intentional planning, and an emphasis on meaningful experiences, your elopement becomes a deeply personal adventure, tailored to who you are as a couple and the love story you’re living.
View Real love stories I’ve had the honor of planning and documenting
