How to Plan an Airbnb Wedding

An Airbnb elopement contains the trifecta: accommodations, ceremony location, and a reception venue.

If you are looking for an economical elopement location look no further than Airbnb.

I’m Alex - I plan and photograph elopements in the PNW. Here is my complete guide on how to plan an Airbnb elopement!

Contact the Airbnb Host

Before you fall in love with an Airbnb you must reach out to the host directly and ask them if they allow events.

It’s likely that you will get a lot of rejections if you ask to have a wedding at their Airbnb. However, if you are eloping with a minimal number of guests, they may be more receptive.

Have your specifics listed in your initial email to each host. In a few short sentences tell them how many guests would potentially attend and how you would use their space.

A quaint elopement with six guests sounds completely different than, “can I throw a wedding at your house?”

Tips on Choosing an Airbnb

When planning an Airbnb elopement there are five things to consider before determining if this is the right place for your wedding. Let’s walk through each of these items together.

1. location

2. ceremony spot

3. guest list

4. bed count

5. noise ordinance

Location

If you are not having the wedding on the Airbnb property make sure your ceremony location is less than an hour away.

You don’t want to feel rushed on the morning of your wedding. Make sure to book an Airbnb that is close by.

Ceremony Spot

If you are getting married at an Airbnb make sure there is a location on the property or within the home that has a backdrop you like.

You can get married in front of an A-frame cabin, beneath an evergreen tree, or next to a fireplace in the Airbnb. Make sure there is a place that feels special to you.

Guest List

How many people are you going to have at your wedding? Did the host agree to have that many people on the property? Make sure to ask your host how many parking spaces are on the property.

Ask your host if your guest list will work with their bathroom situation. Many off-grid cabins and rural Airbnb’s are on a septic system. No one wants to be dealing with backed-up toilets on their wedding day.

Bed Count

If you want your wedding guests to stay with you - make sure there is actually enough room. Also, consider where you will get ready for your wedding. It’s nice to have your own room or a separate space just for yourself.

Noise Ordinance

If you are having an after-party or elopement reception make sure to ask your host about a local noise ordinance. Be respectful of surrounding neighbors and abide by the rules of the host.

Decorating the Airbnb

Let’s be honest, most Airbnb decor is comprised of the best of Ikea. I strongly suggest that you bring your own decor to spruce the place up.

I think a few essential decorative pieces can really change the feel of your wedding. Bring items that commemorate your personal style.

Remember this is someone else’s home and it’s important to be respectful of their property. Don’t use push pins, nails, or other adhesive material that will leave marks on their walls.

Here are five of my favorite ways to decorate for your Airbnb elopement!

Bring Flowers

Besides a white dress, there is nothing more traditional than a bouquet of flowers. Hold them during your ceremony, wear a crown of wildflowers on your head, fill the Airbnb with little decorative vases. Flowers will transform a space.

Lighting

Candles are one of my favorite ways to transform the mood of a space. Bring battery-operated candles to create intimate lighting in the Airbnb.

Battery operated candles are also a great option for responsibly lighting a forest area. Be smart, do not start the next forest fire.

Ceremony Backdrop

Let your imagination run wild when choosing a ceremony backdrop. A large vintage mirror leaning against a mossy tree, a long piece of white tulle hanging loosely from a branch, a triangular archway constructed of two by fours.

There are so many ways to create beautiful temporary backdrops without harming nature. If you need help deciding on a ceremony backdrop, call me, I have lots of ideas!

Table Settings

Yes, it’s likely your Airbnb host will have plates, silverware, and cups. However, a black ceramic plate with copper silverware is a next-level look. Consider bringing linen napkins, glassware, and place settings.

Table Decor

The Airbnb probably doesn’t have a gorgeous dining room table. A white tablecloth can quickly cover the ugliest table and give you a blank canvas for decor. Add a table runner, charger plates, and vases for your flowers.

You can spend 50 bucks at Hobby Lobby and have a beautifully decorated table display for your elopement reception.

Elopement Reception Refreshments

If you are throwing a little after-party make sure to bring food. A simple charcuterie board can go a long way for your guests.

Most importantly - never forget to bring dessert!

When people’s basic necessities are met they are much more likely to relax and have fun. Make sure there are enough food and drinks for everyone.