Why I Love Airbnb Intimate Weddings

Airbnb intimate weddings are absolutely magical. There is nothing more special than just the two of you or a small group of family and friends celebrating your love for one another. To top it off, finding the most breathtaking spot is just icing on the cake. There are so many options for the perfect dreamy Airbnb venue—from cabins in a mystical forest to a desert yurt facing an ideal view of the sunset. If you’re dreaming of a small wedding, in a beautiful place, an Airbnb intimate wedding might just be for you.

No matter where you want to elope, there’s likely a whimsical, hidden gem Airbnb waiting for you. Here are my tips for planning the perfect Airbnb intimate wedding.

Your Airbnb Intimate Wedding Checklist

You might not think there is a lot of planning involved in an Airbnb wedding, however, you may be surprised. Of course, with any elopement or intimate wedding there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to the details. But that’s not to say you can’t plan as little or as much as you want! I don’t want you to leave a single thing out, so here are a few tips for planning your intimate wedding.

Make Sure Your Airbnb is Event Suitable

This one is important. First, you want to make sure it’s large enough, or has an outdoor space, able to accommodate a wedding. Second, you’ll want to check with your Airbnb host to ensure they allow events at their property. Not all rental homes and properties allow events for various reasons. If they do allow events or are willing to accommodate yours, make sure you get it in writing (outside of Airbnb, VRBO, etc.) You also want to ensure in the contract, they can’t cancel your reservation within a certain time frame before your event! (Hint: if a property you fall in love with says they don’t allow events, don’t give up! Message the host before moving on—you may be surprised.)

Will It Accommodate Everyone?

If your intimate wedding is just going to be the two of you, just about any size Airbnb will do (as long as you’re comfortable). However, if you do plan to include family and friends, and want your guests to stay on the same property, you’ll need to make sure it’s large enough for everyone! This can mean everyone staying all in the same house or if you’re on a property with multiple dwellings (container homes, yurts, tents, etc!) then making sure they are all available for your family and friends to stay in!

Consider Your Decorations

While not every couple who chooses to elope or have an intimate wedding necessarily wants to decorate, there might be some who do. And that is absolutely okay! However, it’s important to speak with your host about whether or not you are able to decorate inside or outside on their property. Some hosts may have rules against that, others may not. On the flip side, you could find a place that is already decorated to your liking! There are plenty of Airbnbs that have unique, beautiful designs, decor, and landscaping—the only thing missing is you two!

The Location

Location, location, location! There is nothing more important than the location (in my opinion), especially if you want to have your ceremony at the Airbnb. If right outside isn’t the most breathtaking view you’ve ever seen, the inside isn’t worth it. After all, you’re likely going to have your ceremony outside and who wouldn’t want the most incredible view just steps from where they are staying? I sure would! 

Make Sure Professional Photography is Allowed

This one is a big one! Some properties don’t allow commercial photography or will require a permit, fees, etc. You don’t want to book your place before knowing this, otherwise you won’t be able to have those magical photos taken at your Airbnb like you imagined (*insert crying emoji here*). If you don’t see anything about photography on the listing, don’t assume it’s okay. Contact your host and make sure you’re  good to go! And always, always, always get everything in writing!

Don’t Forget About the Food

If you’re planning to have a meal with your friends and family (or even just the two of you), there are so many options when you have your intimate wedding at an Airbnb! While you could go out to a restaurant nearby, there are some more personal ways to have a celebratory dinner (or lunch or brunch).

You could book a local food truck for a unique and fun way to eat altogether, or you could hire a private chef to prepare a meal for just you two! However, make sure your kitchen is suitable for cooking before booking a private chef! If you don’t want a full meal, you could have pre-made charcuterie boards with a picnic or happy hour for everyone to graze and mingle. There are absolutely no wrong ways here, afterall, it’s your wedding!

Additional Tips and Questions to Ask Your Host

Of course, the tips above aren’t the only things to think about before booking your Airbnb. Another important tip before booking your Airbnb is to figure out what the parking will be like. If there isn’t adequate parking for you or your guests, it may not be your best option. You should also try and see the Airbnb property in-person before booking—reach out to your host to schedule a visit. And of course, book a day in advance to arrive early and make sure everything is set-up, organized, and ready for your big day.

Additionally, here are a few more questions you may want to ask your host before booking:

• Do they allow tents or other structures to be set up on the property?
• Is the kitchen able to accommodate catering or a private chef?
• How many guests are allowed to stay?
• What is the parking situation?
• Is rideshare transportation accessible to your property if necessary?
• What time is the city’s noise ordinance?
• Is your property handicap accessible?
• Do you have any local vendor recommendations? 

An Airbnb intimate wedding can be so magical and I cannot wait to be there to capture the whole day! If you’re ready to start planning your Airbnb intimate wedding, I am more than ready to help. Fill out my contact form today and let’s start planning your absolutely perfect day.