How to Plan an Airbnb Wedding

Did you know you can host your wedding in an airbnb?

That’s right! Not only do airbnbs open up a whole other door of date and style possibilities for your wedding venue, but they are also much less costly AND they double as a vacation home for you & your loved ones to give you THAT much more quality time together!

There are several reasons why someone might choose to have their wedding at an Airbnb rental property instead of a traditional venue:

Cost: Airbnb rentals can be more affordable than traditional venues, especially if you are planning a smaller, more intimate wedding.
Personalization: Airbnb rentals often come with more flexibility in terms of decor and layout, which allows you to personalize your wedding to suit your specific tastes and needs.
Unique setting: Airbnb rentals can be found in a wide range of locations and can offer a unique and memorable setting for your wedding.
Convenience: Many Airbnb rentals come equipped with all the amenities you need, such as a kitchen and sleeping accommodations, which can be convenient for you and your guests.
Privacy: Renting an entire home or property through Airbnb can offer more privacy than a traditional venue, which may be important to some couples.

Of course, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider when planning a wedding at an Airbnb rental, such as the need to bring in outside vendors and the possibility of unforeseen issues with the property. It's important to carefully weigh the pros and cons and do your research before making a decision.

Airbnb Wedding Planning Checklist

Make sure the Airbnb allows events (you could get in HUGE trouble if they don’t and you host an event there! Most airbnbs have security cameras outside nowadays, so you can’t be sneaky about this! Be respectful and make sure to ask beforehand)
Check the guest capacity & if all guests are required to stay the night there (some are super strict and don’t allow anyone on the property unless they are staying the night there)
Message the owner describing your tiny wedding plans and ask how they feel about it, and ask if they allow photography on their property (or if there’s an extra fee for this)
Check local noise ordinances and plan accordingly
What is the parking + bathroom capacity?
Find out what the airbnb’s rules are on decor. Some are very strict and do not allow anything to be attached to the outside of the home at all.
If you rearrange their furniture, make sure to take photos before you move things so you can put everything back in place
If a tiny wedding or reception, consider layout when looking at properties. Is there enough space for dinner tables? For a dancing area? Where would you want your ceremony background to be?
Is the kitchen big enough if you’re hiring a cook for your guests?
Hire vendors you trust! Your vendors will be bringing everything in for you (tables, chairs, rentals, etc) It’s a big undertaking, so you need to love them!!

Things to Consider When Looking

Look for ones that have large tables and chairs that you like to save money
Keep an eye out for flat, large lawn spaces, or large decks
If you’re wanting to do the entire wedding at the airbnb, make sure it has an epic view or cool location! (If you’re wanting to do ceremony + pics elsewhere, then you don't need to worry about this)
How far is the airbnb from the closest major airport? How will your guests get to and from?
If your guests aren’t staying the night at the airbnb at all, make sure there are other options for them close by
If you want your fury friends to come along with you for your wedding day, make sure the airbnb is pet friendly!

What if the Listing Says No Events or Parties?

I would still message them to ask, and offer to pay additional cleaning fees! Many times homeowners will say “no parties or events” on the listing, but if you ask honestly and respectfully, they may be willing to make an exception! Pro tip though: try using the word “dinner” instead of “wedding reception” and make sure to let them know how many people total will be there (the smaller the group, the more likely they will let you!). If you are hiring a stylist or planner, make sure to let them know that your vendor team will treat the property as if it’s their own and you’ll have someone in charge of a proper tear-down and cleaning after the evening. It also helps if you have several positive reviews on your Airbnb profile - that way the owner can know that they can trust you to be respectful to their home.