How to Elope with Pets in Colorado

Eloping in Colorado, with its breathtaking landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, is an enchanting way to celebrate your love. Including your pets in this significant moment can add an extra layer of joy and personal significance to your special day. Colorado's unique provision allowing pets to serve as legal witnesses and sign the marriage license only enhances the appeal of bringing your furry companions along. However, incorporating pets into your elopement requires thoughtful planning and preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly and everyone enjoys the experience.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of planning a pet-inclusive elopement in Colorado. We’ll explore pet-friendly locations, offer tips on preparing your pets for the adventure, discuss how to incorporate them into your ceremony, and share ideas for celebrating post-ceremony. Additionally, we’ll provide practical advice for capturing these precious moments in photos and videos.

By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and inspiration to plan a seamless and memorable elopement that includes your beloved pets, making your special day even more unique and personal.

Choosing a Pet Friendly Location

Top Pet-Friendly Elopement Locations in Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park stands out for its awe-inspiring beauty, with snow-capped peaks, serene lakes, and dense forests providing a magical backdrop for your ceremony. While pets are restricted from most hiking trails, they are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roadsides. Ensure your pets are comfortable with high altitudes and prepare for potentially cold temperatures.

Another picturesque option is Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, where you can exchange vows amidst towering red rock formations. This location is popular, so consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid crowds. The park’s extensive network of pet-friendly trails allows your pets to join in the exploration, making it an ideal spot for adventurous couples.

Breckenridge offers a blend of historic charm and natural beauty. With numerous pet-friendly accommodations and trails, it’s perfect for couples who want to include their pets in their celebration. Enjoy the cozy ambiance of this mountain town and take advantage of the many pet-friendly outdoor activities available.

Telluride and Aspen also provide stunning settings for a winter wonderland elopement. These towns, known for their upscale amenities and breathtaking scenery, offer both luxury and natural beauty. When planning to elope in these locations, book accommodations and services well in advance due to their popularity.

In choosing your location, consider the accessibility, pet-friendly amenities, and regulations. Researching each venue’s specific rules about pets ensures you’re fully prepared and compliant with local guidelines.

Preparing Your Pets

Health and Safety Considerations

Ensuring your pets are comfortable and happy throughout the elopement process involves several steps. Start by scheduling a vet check-up to confirm they are healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. Discuss any travel-related concerns with your vet, particularly if your pets are not accustomed to long journeys.

Identification is crucial. Equip your pets with updated ID tags and consider microchipping them for added security. Traveling can sometimes lead to unexpected situations, and having proper identification ensures they can be quickly reunited with you if they get lost.

Packing the Essentials

When packing for your pets, think about all the essentials they’ll need. This includes their regular food, water, portable bowls, leashes, harnesses, waste bags, and a first aid kit. Bringing familiar items like their favorite toys, blankets, or beds can help reduce anxiety and make them feel more at home.

Training and Acclimation

Training your pets for the elopement day is another important step. Basic commands such as sit, stay, and come will be invaluable. Practice these commands in various settings to ensure they remain obedient, even in unfamiliar environments. If possible, visit the elopement location beforehand to help your pets acclimate to the new surroundings.

Travel Preparations

Travel can be stressful for pets, so start acclimating them to their carriers or harnesses well before the trip. Gradually increase the duration of car rides to help them get used to being on the road. During travel, ensure they are safely secured in the vehicle and take frequent breaks to let them stretch and relieve themselves.

Additionally, consider their hydration and nutrition needs throughout the trip. Carry enough of their regular food and water, and bring portable bowls to make feeding and hydrating them easy. Avoid changing their diet close to the elopement to prevent any digestive issues.

Monitor the weather conditions at your elopement location and pack accordingly. For cold weather, bring pet jackets, blankets, and booties to keep them warm. For hot weather, ensure there is ample shade and bring cooling mats or vests to keep them comfortable.

It's also important to prepare for emergencies. Pack a first aid kit tailored to your pets' needs, including items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any medications they require. Know the location of the nearest veterinary clinic at your elopement destination.

Incorporating Pets into Your Ceremony

Roles for Pets in the Ceremony

Including pets in your ceremony can be both delightful and meaningful. There are several creative ways to involve them, ensuring they play an integral role in your special day.

One popular option is having your pet serve as the ring bearer. Attach the rings to their collar or a small pouch and practice this role several times before the ceremony to ensure they are comfortable with it. Another charming idea is to dress them up as the flower pet, adorned with a floral collar or a flower-decorated leash, and have them walk down the aisle.

In Colorado, your pet can legally serve as a witness and sign the marriage license with a paw print. This unique touch adds a special element to your ceremony, creating a memorable keepsake. For this, use a non-toxic ink pad designed for pets and practice beforehand to ensure a clear print.

Simply having your pet as a companion during the ceremony can also be incredibly special. Allow them to sit or stand by your side as you exchange vows, providing a comforting presence. Dress them in accessories that match your wedding theme, such as a bow tie, bandana, or custom outfit, ensuring these items are comfortable and safe.

Capturing the Moments

Capturing these moments on camera is essential. Work closely with your photographer and videographer to include your pets in key shots. Plan specific poses and moments, such as walking down the aisle, close-ups with your pets, and candid shots of them enjoying the surroundings. Discuss with your photographer about the best ways to capture your pets' expressions and interactions, ensuring they remain at ease during the photo sessions.

Personalizing the Ceremony

To further personalize the ceremony, consider incorporating elements that reflect your pets' personalities and your relationship with them. You might include a special reading or poem about pets, or even write vows that acknowledge the role your pets play in your lives. Creating a special spot for your pets to sit or lie down during the ceremony, complete with a comfy bed and some of their favorite toys, can help them feel more relaxed and included.

Informing Guests

If you have guests attending your elopement, inform them in advance about the presence of pets so they can be prepared. Ensure that anyone who may be interacting with your pets, such as the officiant or family members, is comfortable around animals.

Practice Makes Perfect

For a smooth ceremony, assign a trusted friend or family member to act as a pet handler. This person can take care of your pets' needs, ensuring they are well-behaved and comfortable throughout the event. They can also assist with walking the pets down the aisle, holding onto them during key moments, and providing comfort and reassurance.

Practice the ceremony with your pets beforehand. Familiarizing them with their roles and any commands they need to follow can help reduce anxiety and ensure everything goes smoothly on the day of the elopement. Be flexible and prepared to adjust plans as needed, as pets can be unpredictable.

Post-Ceremony Celebrations with Pets

Pet-Friendly Reception Ideas

After the ceremony, celebrating with your pets can be a joyous experience. Plan a pet-friendly reception that includes them in the festivities. A picnic celebration is a fantastic idea, with pet-friendly foods and treats. Bring blankets, cushions, and toys to create a comfortable and fun environment for everyone.

For couples who love the outdoors, consider an outdoor adventure such as a hike, visit to a dog park, or play session by a lake. Choose activities that your pets enjoy and that allow them to be part of the fun. Alternatively, select a pet-friendly venue for your reception, such as a restaurant, café, or event space that welcomes pets.

Special Treats for Pets

Incorporating special treats for your pets can add an extra layer of celebration. Custom pet cakes, gourmet treats, and interactive toys are great options. Ensure the treats are suitable for your pets’ dietary needs and preferences.

Documenting the Celebration

Documenting these moments with your pets is crucial. Capture the joy and excitement of your post-ceremony celebrations through photos and videos. Work with your photographer and videographer to document moments such as playing with your pets, sharing special treats, and relaxing together.

Traveling with Pets After the Elopement

When planning to travel with pets after your elopement, it’s important to have all the necessary supplies and arrangements in place. Pack enough food and water for the journey, and bring their favorite toys and bedding to provide comfort. Ensure your accommodations are pet-friendly and have the necessary amenities to cater to your pets’ needs.

Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unexpected cancellations or delays due to weather. This can provide peace of mind and protect your investment. When renting a vehicle, opt for a four-wheel-drive to navigate snowy and icy roads safely. Confirm transportation services in advance and have backup options in case of delays.

Creating Keepsakes

Creating keepsakes to commemorate your pet-inclusive elopement can be a wonderful way to remember the day. Consider making a photo album or scrapbook, framing a paw print from the marriage license, or commissioning a custom piece of art featuring you and your pets.

Ensuring pet safety and comfort during the celebration is crucial. Monitor their behavior for any signs of stress or discomfort and address their needs promptly. Provide plenty of water, food, and opportunities for rest. Create a designated quiet area where your pets can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.

Involving Guests

Involving your guests in the celebration with your pets can also enhance the experience. Provide them with treats or toys to share with your pets, and encourage them to interact and take photos. This not only makes your pets feel more included but also creates a more festive and joyful atmosphere.

Games and Activities

Incorporating games and activities that your pets enjoy can make the celebration even more fun. Organize a fetch game, set up an agility course, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk together. These activities not only keep your pets entertained but also create lasting memories of your special day.

Bring those furry friends along…

Eloping with pets in Colorado is a unique and heartwarming way to celebrate your love and include your furry family members in your special day. By carefully planning and considering their needs, you can create a memorable and enjoyable experience for both you and your pets. From choosing a pet-friendly location and preparing them for the adventure to incorporating them into the ceremony and celebrating together, each step of the process can be tailored to ensure their comfort and happiness.

The key to a successful pet-friendly elopement is flexibility and preparation. Embrace the joy and unpredictability that pets bring, and focus on the moments that make your day special and unique. Whether your pets are serving as ring bearers, flower pets, or simply providing companionship, their presence will add an extra layer of love and meaning to your elopement.

Need a Colorado elopement planner, photographer and videographer? Hit us up!

We’re here to support you in your journey. Whether it’s just the two of you eloping at the top of the mountain or with your family at an accessible alpine lake, we’re here to help make it happen. To provide truly authentic experiences and the highest quality elopement films, we only accept a very limited number of intimate weddings and elopements each year.

THIS ISN’T JUST AN CONTACT FORM, IT’S THE POTENTIAL START TO AN AWESOME FRIENDSHIP.

For that reason, we read every inquiry and respond within 24-48 hours to get started as soon as possible on making your dream skiing elopement a reality. The more information you give us here provides us with an opportunity to craft a more meaningful film, personalized experience, and overall awesome relationship with you and your partner :)