Pets & elopement: compatible?

plan an unforgettable elopement with your pets

The idea of ​​including your pet in your ceremony might seem perfectly natural, but how do you actually do it? Is it possible to have them travel long distances—if a plane or train is involved?
As an europe elopement photographer, I've received many of these questions, and I'll try my best to answer them, knowing that my answer is often "yes" (especially for pets like dogs and cats).

Your pets are an integral part of your love story, and having them by your side on your wedding day makes the moment even more authentic and intimate.
In the following paragraphs, I'll share my tips for creating an elopement that celebrates both your relationship and your beloved companions <3.

    I) Why include your pets in your elopement?

Your pets are so much more than just a daily presence: they are your confidants, your loyal companions, and sometimes even the reason for your most beautiful walks in nature. They are our best friends, always there for you through thick and thin, tears, joys, and silliness… It's important to bring them along.

Eloping with your pets means a lot:

- making your photos even more unique and personal: your dog/cat is yours, and the elopement photos will be much warmer and more spontaneous than any others.

- adding a touch of emotion and spontaneity: we know, even though we've known them since they were puppies, they often invent some mischief we hadn't even imagined. But that's why we love them so much. Imagine a photo of you, laughing out loud, and your four-legged friend, because they've been up to something new. Sounds tempting, doesn't it?

Preserve a memory of your family as it is today. Because they don't have the same sense of time as we do, it's important to create a memory now... Because we, or he, might be gone soon...

    II) Choosing a pet-friendly elopement location

It's important to be mindful of the country you plan to travel to with your pets.

A few criteria should be considered:

- If you're going to certain natural sites or national parks, check carefully whether dogs are allowed—on a leash or off-leash. If not, no exceptions will be made.

- Try to find a quiet place where you and your pet can feel comfortable. For example, a road near the wedding ceremony isn't very safe. Opt for mountains or wide-open plains (but be careful of rivers and streams!).

- Of course, after so many years with them, you know that you need to bring everything necessary for their comfort: a place where shade is easy to find, fresh water, and food.

=> National parks and beaches often offer special areas for animals, but each destination has its own rules. Do your research before making any reservations, you can ask your elopement photographer for help. 

Bringing your pets to your elopement wedding is a sincere and generous way to show them love and affection. A boundless bond, captured in natural and artistic photos.
They live such a short time, so why not bring them with us, anywhere!

    Iii) Preparing your pets for elopement

As you know, organizing an outing with a four-legged companion is different than a simple outing for two. And this is about your elopement. Here are a few tips:

- From an aesthetic point of view: choose a leash and/or harness that matches your outfit BUT is also comfortable for your dog/cat. You can try having them wear an accessory like a flower or a colorful bandana.

- Don't forget the complete kit: food bowls, treats, poop bags, and one or two favorite toys to keep them entertained.

- If you have to walk for a few hours to reach a viewpoint, plan breaks so they can stay relaxed (and so can we!).

As a elopement photographer who has adopted a dog, I truly understand the bond between owner and their dog/cat. I love capturing those moments lost in time,

when your dog yawns at your feet or comes to snuggle up to you.

    iV) Involve your animals in the day's events

If you wish, they can participate in the ceremony (and not just for photos!).
Your companions can be included at different stages of the day:

They can walk beside you during the ceremony and/or remain seated during your vows.

You already know this: but they can also… carry the wedding rings! A memorable way to involve them, and it's always adorable to watch!
Afterwards, they can simply appear in the couple's portraits.

Each animal has its own personality: some will be comfortable in front of the camera, others will prefer to remain discreet. The most important thing is to respect their pace <3

    V) Entrust your pets to a pet sitter on the big day

If you're not comfortable with the logistics, you can hire a pet sitter who specializes in your dog's breed, or in destination weddings, for the duration of the ceremony, and then do activities with your pet the next day!
This will allow you to enjoy the ceremony together, without the stress of organizing everything. You'll feel much more at ease knowing your beloved pet is being pampered by a specialist. And the return home will be all the sweeter, with lots of cuddles <3