How to Elope with Your Furbabies
Photography: Cappy Phalen Coordinated by: Simply Eloped
4 Ways to Bring Along the Pups without Stress
While I try not to exploit my dog for marketing purposes, Mona is a huge part of my daily life. The truth is, every time I go to a wedding that involves being outside (which is often), I feel guilty for leaving her at home. If you feel this, don’t worry! There are options for how you can bring your pup(s) along for your elopement.
1. Bring a family member or friend along.
This is a win-win because you have someone to help with the pups, tell you how beautiful you are and sign the marriage license. I hear a lot of couples say that they choose not to invite a friend because, well, how can you choose just one? In that case…
Hank hanging with grandpa during an intimate ceremony. Photography: Amanda Wilson Editing: Ashley Leffew
2. Use a dog sitting service like Rover.
You can’t pick just one friend or family member without the whole crew getting jealous, so this is another option. No...I’m not sponsored by this company but I do have a couple that used it and it was very helpful. They were able to have a peaceful ceremony with the dogs nearby for family photos afterward. Then the sitters took the pups for a nice walk while mom and dad continued with portraits. The sitters even served as witnesses for the marriage license. But maybe you’re on a budget and this doesn’t make sense so...
Rover sitters with Baylen and Willow watching the ceremony from a distance. Photography: Cappy Phalen Coordinated by: Simply Eloped
3. Rent a pet-friendly vacation home.
If you’re doing a destination wedding, you have to stay somewhere so find a location that’s pet-friendly. Your photographer can snap some getting ready photos, first look pics and family shots before the ceremony. Then leave your pup to chill in the AC while you and your bae go get hitched. It’s also a nice back-up plan in case of inclement weather. (Re: Wed Where You Bed)
Penny is excited that her moms are getting married today. Photography: Cappy Phalen Coordinated by: Simply Eloped
4. Tucker them out on the hike.
You and your partner are the ultimate adventurers so you’re planning to do a longer hike to get to your ceremony destination. By the time you get to the top, your doggie will be tuckered out and ready to relax. It’s obviously not your first rodeo if you hike with your dog regularly, but this one does require some extra gear. Don’t forget snacks, water and poop bags. Also, make sure the trail is dog-friendly and follow trail guidelines.
Loki feeling a little winded after a 700 ft elevation gain. Photography: Echo Photo
There’s that. I’ve had couples use each of these methods and successfully incorporate their dog on their wedding day. Each of your furbabies is as unique as you are so you’ll be taking that into consideration when deciding which is the best option for you. And plenty of couples decide to leave their pups at home with grandma or a boarding service. That’s ok too! You can also have a styled shoot with your pup later.
