How to Include Your Pet, pets or animals in Your Elopement
5 minute read
Have you ever wondered if you can include your pet or animals in your elopement? The answer is absolutely YES!
At E-Lope, we love seeing couples share their day with their beloved animals. Whether it’s your loyal dog, cuddly cat, or even a rabbit, parrot, or horse, their presence makes your day even more special.
Elopements are about intimacy and personalisation, making them perfect for celebrating your bond with your pet.
Here’s everything you need to know about crafting a pet-friendly elopement that’s seamless, stress-free, and full of love.
Choosing the Right Venue
A pet-friendly venue is essential for making your day memorable for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike. Beautiful venues like The Castle Westenhanger, Bilsington Priory, The Lost Village of Dode and Allington Castle offer stunning backdrops and welcome pets as part of the celebration. These locations combine historic charm with plenty of outdoor space, creating the perfect setting for memorable moments with your furry friend.
Ways to Involve Your Pet
From start to finish, there are countless ways to include your pet or other animals in your big day. Here are some ideas:
• Morning Cuddles: Keep your pet close while getting ready at home or in a dog-friendly lodge
• Ring Bearer: Attach a secure ring pouch to your pet’s collar for an adorable touch, or hire an owl ring bearer like Emma and Paul did for their tiny wedding at The Castle Westenhanger
• Aisle Buddy: Let your pet walk with you down the aisle for a heartwarming entrance
• Photo Sidekick: Add a fun twist by capturing moments through your pet’s eyes with a GoPro-mounted camera.
Whatever role you choose, tailor it to your pet’s personality and comfort level. Their happiness will make your day even more special.
Dressing Your Pet
Your pet deserves to look the part! A floral collar, bow tie, or custom bandana can help them coordinate with your theme while keeping them comfortable. Our florist, House of Mimi Fleur, loves creating stunning, pet-safe floral accessories. This ensures your furry friend is as stylish as the rest of your wedding party. Let us know your preferences in advance so we can include them in the cost of your elopement.
If you want to read more about Niccole and Ramie’s dog, Rolo, check out the Daily Dog Tag
Keeping the Day Stress-Free
The best celebrations are enjoyable for everyone, including your pet. Here’s how to make sure they stay comfortable and happy:
• Bring the essentials: Water, treats, waste bags, a favourite toy, and a cosy bed, which are must-haves
• Designate a Quiet Spot: Set up a space where your pet can take a break whilst you add your finishing touches
• Hire a Helper: A pet handler or trusted friend can focus on your pet’s needs, letting you enjoy the day.
Capturing the Moments
Your pet is family, so let them shine in your wedding photos!
Capture candid moments of them exploring, watching your vows, or posing playfully. Let us know, and Fleur Challis can plan these special shots.
Why Pets Make Elopements Even More Special
Bringing your pet to your elopement is more than just adorable photos (though there will be plenty of those). It’s about honouring the bond you share. Pets bring comfort, joy, and unconditional love—qualities that perfectly complement the emotions of your wedding day.
Making It Unique to You and Your Pet
Elopements are wonderfully flexible, allowing you to design a day that reflects your relationship and accommodates your pet’s needs. Choose a time of day and season that work best for your pet’s comfort, and opt for venues that offer the space to run around and tranquillity they’ll enjoy.
Make Your Petite Wedding Magical with Special Animal Guests
If you don’t have a pet but love animals or want to make a special occasion unforgettable for children, consider hiring some incredible animal experiences. Birds of prey handlers can bring majestic owls and falcons for a unique, interactive experience that will delight guests of all ages. We loved working with the Kent Falconry Centre, for Emma and Paul’s tiny wedding.
Why not include their charming confetti pony for a truly magical touch at Bilsington Priory? What could be a more adorable and alternative way of giving out confetti with one of our confetti Shetland ponies at your wedding? Once you know your colour scheme and flowers, working with our in-house florist, House of Mimi Fleur, we can weave them into the Shetland Pony’s manes and tails. Once spotted, your guests will undoubtedly want their pictures next to the ponies. Carrying eco-friendly confetti, it’s a whimsical addition that brings joy and creates picture-perfect moments for everyone, no matter how tiny your wedding.
Final Thoughts
Your elopement is a celebration of love in all its forms, and for many, that includes the love of a pet. With thoughtful planning and the right venue, you can create a day that feels true to you, your partner, and your furry friend.
At E-Lope, we specialise in crafting unforgettable, pet-friendly elopements. We’re here to make every moment of your day extraordinary, from helping you choose the perfect venue to creating custom floral details for your pet, all designed to fill your celebration with love and joy. Let’s make a celebration that’s as unique as your love story.
Images with kind thanks to Fleur Challis Photography and team E-Lope
