Tequila Donkeys at The Stakeout: A Unique Cocktail Hour Experience
When planning your wedding, one of the most exciting parts is finding those unique touches that leave your guests talking for years to come. At The Stakeout, one popular addition to cocktail hour is a tequila donkey, a charming way to combine entertainment with an unexpected wow factor.
We partner with Shane of NM Event Burros, a preferred vendor who provides well-cared-for and beautifully decorated donkeys for events. These gentle animals, like Julia, the white donkey with a sweet temperament, are dressed to impress—complete with floral adornments. They carry tequila or mezcal in small saddle baskets, offering your guests a memorable way to grab a celebratory shot while snapping photos with the star of the hour.
How the Tequila Donkey Works
If you’re considering this unique entertainment for your wedding, here’s how it typically goes:
Client Responsibility: Couples will touch base and book the tequila donkey via one of our preferred vendors. They then provide the alcohol of their choice (tequila, mezcal, or whatever else you want to provide), along with any extras like limes, salt, or other garnishes.
Presentation: The donkey arrives at your cocktail hour, ready to charm your guests with its decorated look and approachable personality.
Guest Experience: Guests grab a shot, take pictures with the donkey, and enjoy this whimsical surprise.
Duration: The tequila donkey is usually present during cocktail hour, keeping the focus on this special moment before the reception begins.
Sara & Mitch’s Wedding: Tequila Donkey in Action
Sara and Mitch’s wedding, held the second weekend of May (the day before Mother’s Day), featured one of these tequila donkeys—and it was a hit despite some unexpected weather challenges.
Originally, the ceremony was set to take place outdoors on the Sage Platform, but as May weather can be unpredictable, we had to pivot last-minute due to a steady drizzle. Safety always comes first at The Stakeout, especially for elderly guests, women in heels, and, of course, the bride. With some quick thinking and teamwork, we transitioned the ceremony to our Tent Pavilion/Annex and still managed to start on time.
Despite the adjustment, Sara and Mitch were gracious and thankful for the seamless transition. After the ceremony, we moved into cocktail hour on the Bell Deck, where Julia the tequila donkey made her grand appearance. Decked out in flowers and her signature charm, Julia brought smiles to the couple and their guests as they toasted with shots and captured fun, candid photos.
Things to Consider for Your Tequila Donkey
- Vendor Coordination: Work with a trusted vendor like NM Event Burros to ensure the donkey is well cared for and used responsibly. Shane and his team are professional, and the donkeys are treated with kindness and respect.
- Your Responsibilities: Remember that you’ll need to provide the alcohol, limes, salt, and any other extras. This gives you the freedom to customize the experience for your guests.
- Backup Plans: If you’re planning an outdoor cocktail hour, have a weather contingency in place to ensure a smooth transition if the weather takes an unexpected turn.
- Guest Enjoyment: The tequila donkey is more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a great way to surprise your guests and create lasting memories.
Why Choose a Tequila Donkey?
Tequila donkeys add a playful and unique element to your wedding that few guests will expect. It’s a great way to blend local charm with entertainment, and it’s particularly fitting for weddings in Taos, where Southwestern flair and rustic elegance go hand in hand.
While I personally have mixed feelings about using animals for entertainment, I’ve found that the handlers we work with go above and beyond to ensure the donkeys are treated humanely. If you’re comfortable with this option, it’s a fun and memorable way to delight your guests during cocktail hour.
What’s Your Unique Wedding Surprise?
Whether it’s a tequila donkey, a custom photobooth, or a live mariachi band, adding a special touch to your wedding can make all the difference. At The Stakeout, we love helping couples bring their unique vision to life, rain or shine.
So, what special surprise will you have at your wedding? Let’s make it unforgettable!
Vendors
- Venue: The Stakeout
- Planner: Siouxzen Kang
- Catering: The Stakeout
- Officiant: Friend/ Graham Miller
- DJ: Desert Disco
- Photographer: Suroeste Studios | Frankie Gomez
- Florist: Elegante Florals by Mercedes
- HMU: Family Friend
- Bakery: Taos Cakes
- Tequila Donkey: NM Event Burros
