Paws, Vows, and Colorado Peaks: How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Day
Updated: 9 minutes ago
Let’s be honest: your dog is the absolute best part of your life.
Here in Colorado, our pups are adventure partners, trail buddies, and basically family royalty. Whether you're planning a rugged mountain elopement or a chic Denver venue celebration, having your four-legged best friend there makes everything ten times better.
Plus, the candid photos? Absolutely priceless.
Here is your ultimate, no-stress guide to bringing your dog along for your Colorado wedding day.
Scout Dog Friendly Colorado Wedding Venues and Trail Rules First
Not all Colorado wedding venues or scenic spots roll out the red carpet for dogs.
Traditional venues might allow your pup for the ceremony, but ban them from the indoor reception.
If you're eloping on public land, know the rules. National Parks like RMNP have strict leash restrictions on trails, but nearby National Forests, BLM lands, and many mountain state parks are total dog havens.
Always check the local regulations before you fall in love with a backdrop!
Still looking for the perfect spot to say "I do" with your pup? Check out my curated list of the best dog-friendly wedding venues in Colorado across Denver, Boulder, and the mountains.
What If Your Venue Doesn’t Allow Dogs?
Fallen in love with a venue that has a strict "no pets" policy? Don't worry! Your pup doesn't have to miss out on the celebration.
Bring them to your engagement session: This is the easiest way to get frame-worthy portraits together with zero wedding-day timelines or venue rules to worry about. Plus, if your hirng Colleen's Captures as your wedding photographer every wedding package over six hours includes a complimentary engagement session, we can hit your favorite Colorado trail or park with your pup.
Include them while getting ready: Book a dog-friendly Airbnb, mountain cabin, or boutique hotel for the morning of your wedding. Having your dog hang out while you’re getting dressed gives us plenty of time for relaxed, candid portraits before you head off to the ceremony.
Sneak away for a "First Look" nearby: Have a trusted friend or pet attendant bring your dog to a nearby park or scenic overlook just before your ceremony. You get a private, emotional moment together, and gorgeous wedding portraits—without breaking any venue rules.
Add subtle nods to your reception: If they can't be there in person, bring them in spirit! Custom cocktail napkins with their face on them, a signature drink named after your pup, or a custom cake topper sneaking a bite of frosting are always huge crowd-pleasers.
Bring in a Pro Pet Attendant (Your Friends Will Thank You)
Do not hand the leash to a bridesmaid or a groomsman.
They have enough on their plates holding bouquets, managing rings, and trying not to cry during your vows.
Colorado now has incredible professional wedding pet-care services. They pick up your dog, walk them, handle them during portraits, and tuck them safely into bed before the first dance.
If you go the DIY route, assign a designated family member whose only job is pup duty.
Wedding pet attendant in Colorado that I recommend
Canine University - Operating since 2013 (or 2023), this CPDT-certified, positive-reinforcement training team offers dedicated wedding pet attendant services. Because they are certified trainers, they know how to keep your pup calm, happy, and camera-ready amidst all the wedding-day excitement.
Owner of Canine University helped me take this photo at the Pines by Wedgewood in Colorado
Match Their "Attraction" to Your Aesthetic Put down the neon orange hunting harness.
Treat your dog's leash and collar like high-end accessories. Swap the everyday gear for a sleek leather leash, a neutral-toned rope line, or a custom floral collar made by your florist.
It keeps the look clean, timeless, and completely cohesive with your wedding day style in the photos.
Plan for Wild Colorado Weather Mountain weather changes faster than your dog spots a squirrel.
Pack a dedicated wedding-day emergency bag just for your pup.
Include a collapsible water bowl, extra hydration (altitude is no joke for dogs), high-value treats to bribe them for camera attention, and a clean towel for muddy paws.
Embrace the Unscripted Chaos Dogs won't pose, and they definitely won't look at the camera on command for ten minutes straight.
And that is exactly what makes these photos magical.
The best shots happen in the messy, wonderful in-between moments. A sloppy kiss right after the first kiss, tail wags during family portraits, or your dog leading the way down a dirt trail.
Let them be dogs, and let the real moments unfold.
Ready to Include Your Pup in Your Colorado Wedding?
If your dog is practically writing half your guest list, let’s build a relaxed, adventure-ready wedding timeline that puts your whole family in the frame.
Reach out through my contact page and tell me all about your vision, your venue, and your favorite furry family member!
www.instagram.com/colleens.captures for my newest work
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