More couples are choosing to include their pets in their wedding day, and we totally get why. Pets are family. Whether it’s a calm senior dog who steals hearts with a slow walk down the aisle or a shy cat waiting quietly in a tucked-away lounge, their presence adds something personal and authentic to the big day. Weddings have always been about celebrating love, connection, and shared life stories, and when pets have been part of that journey, it feels right to have them there too.
That said, planning a pet-friendly wedding isn’t just about showing up with your dog in a bow tie. There are real things to consider, especially in a city like Denver, where weather, venue rules, and pet comfort all play a role. If you’re thinking of making your celebration pet-inclusive, it’s smart to know what you’re working with so the day feels smooth for not just your guests but your pets too.
Choosing a Pet-Friendly Venue
Not every venue is ready for pets, and that’s okay. The key is to find one that is. This starts with knowing what type of space works best when pets are invited. If you’re looking at event spaces in Denver, you’ll want to focus on locations that offer both indoor flexibility and easy outdoor access. Outdoor areas give pets space to stretch, play, and take a break from the heavier parts of the event. Indoors, it helps if there are less crowded zones where pets can hang out away from music and high foot traffic.
Here’s what to look for when checking if a venue is truly pet-friendly:
– Clear pet policies upfront—no guessing games
– On-site staff who are experienced or open to pets
– Outdoor space that’s enclosed or easy to supervise
– Flooring that’s easy to clean in case of accidents
– Access to shade, water, and low-traffic resting areas
– Defined space just for pets to unwind safely
Denver’s high-altitude sun can be intense in late summer, so it helps when an event space has shaded outdoor sections and flooring that doesn’t overheat. If you’re hosting both your ceremony and reception in the same place, consider one that allows smooth transitions between spaces. A rooftop venue often lets you move between indoor lounges and open-air ceremonies easily with your pet.
Set up a time to tour venues with your pet in mind. Think about how they’d move through the event—where they’d nap, what might stress them out, and where handlers could stay nearby. Choosing a place that welcomes pets with confidence takes pressure off everything else.
Pet Safety and Comfort
Once you’ve found a venue that works, the next piece is making sure it feels safe and calm for your pet. Weddings can be loud and unpredictable, so thinking ahead keeps stress levels in check—for them and you.
Start by planning a quiet space for them to rest. Whether it’s a shaded outdoor corner or a tucked-away lounge inside, giving your pet a spot of their own helps them recharge. Make sure water is always available, especially during Denver’s dry late-summer air. If the event is mostly outdoors, be mindful of hot surfaces like concrete or turf. A cooling mat or pop-up pet tent can go a long way in keeping them happy.
Other smart prep tips:
– Pack a pet kit with treats, poop bags, wipes, and their favorite toy
– Create a rest zone with soft bedding and fresh water
– Choose quieter corners for pet-friendly seating
– Check with your florist about non-toxic flowers near pets
It’s a good idea to bring a pet sitter or handler to help out. You’ll be busy taking photos, greeting guests, and moving around. A trusted person who can walk your pet, give them water, or return them to their rest area gives you peace of mind throughout the day.
Pet Roles in the Ceremony
Pets can be more than adorable guests—they can also help headline the event in small but memorable ways. Many couples like having their dog walk down the aisle with a family member or carry a stand-in ring box. Others choose a more relaxed role, like standing with the bridal party or greeting guests in the entryway in a matching collar or bandana.
Here are a few fun ideas:
– Ring bearer or “flower pet”
– Escorting a family member down the aisle
– Wearing wedding colors or outfits for photos
– Walking in during portraits or entrances
Keep their comfort front and center. If your pet loves attention and handles crowds well, a longer role might work. But if they get nervous or distracted easily, stick with a short appearance or pre-event photo shoot.
Start practicing weeks ahead of time. Get your pet used to the sounds and movements they’ll experience that day—walking on different surfaces, sitting calmly, moving through decorated spaces, or hearing music and clapping. Repetition helps them feel more comfortable.
Special Considerations and Legalities
Planning with love also means planning with care. There are a few legal or logistical things worth handling early to avoid hiccups later on.
Some venues in Denver may ask for paperwork, like up-to-date vaccination records. Others may have policies allowing pets only in outdoor sections or during specific time windows. Be upfront in your conversations and get everything confirmed in writing to avoid last-minute surprises.
Guest comfort is just as important. If you have guests who are allergic or nervous around animals, seating them away from pets or creating buffer zones can help everyone feel welcome and at ease.
Other things to plan for:
– Know the leash policies and have back-up collars or harnesses
– Alert guests ahead of time about pets attending
– Ask your wedding insurance company if pet coverage is included
– Designate a potty area with cleanup supplies on hand
It’s the tiny details that often make a big difference, so building them into your day helps make it smoother and more relaxed for everyone.
Making Beautiful Pet-Inclusive Memories
One of the best things about including your pet in your wedding is how much it adds to the feeling of joy and comfort. Whether they star in portraits, take one proud walk down the aisle, or simply stay nearby for cuddles between photos, they help make the day feel real and full of heart.
Be sure to talk with your photographer early so they can plan a few specific moments for you and your pet. If your pet can’t stay the entire night, bring them in during early portrait time or before guests arrive. You’ll still get the photos and moment with them, without stressing them out.
Think about your pet’s personality. Some thrive with the attention and energy, while others get overwhelmed fast. Let your plans match their preferences.
Even if pets can’t attend, you can still include personal nods to them throughout the design—like mini portraits on drink signs, subtle paw print patterns on programs, or a memory station for a beloved pet that couldn’t be there.
What matters most is that their presence, in one way or another, is part of your story.
Crafting a Pet-Friendly Celebration at Rooftop1630
If you’re dreaming of a wedding where your dog trots proudly down the aisle or your cat lounges in the bride’s dressing suite, Rooftop1630 offers a setting that makes it possible. With spacious indoor lounges and open-air rooftop views, this Denver venue is ideal for couples who want a space that respects all types of guests—including the four-legged ones.
The layout makes it easy to shift between celebration zones, giving pets an environment that’s both manageable and peaceful. With easy outdoor access, shaded retreat spots, and a team ready to help bring your vision to life, Rooftop1630 takes many of the concerns off your plate.
Explore event spaces in Denver that are ready for this kind of celebration. Your pet has been with you through everything, and your big day shouldn’t be any different. Choosing a space like Rooftop1630 helps create a wedding day that’s welcoming, joyful, and totally you.
For couples dreaming of a perfect wedding with their beloved pets, Denver offers a variety of settings that cater to your specific needs. Make your day truly special by choosing one of the stunning event spaces in Denver that welcomes all of your family members, furry ones included. At Rooftop1630, you’ll find a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor spaces designed to enhance every memory you create. Explore what’s possible and turn your vision into reality with us.