Airbnb Wedding Venues: A Savvy Choice for Affordable, Intimate Weddings
Looking for a unique and alternative wedding venue that’s also affordable and simple? Read this post to learn the pros and cons of using an Airbnb wedding venue.
Choosing your wedding venue is one of the most important and exciting parts of planning your wedding. This space is where the most memorable parts of your day will occur. It’s where you will share your first dance, enjoy dinner with your friends and family, and spend a few delightful hours together with your closest loved ones celebrating you and your partner.
From color palettes and flowers to textures and more, your venue is also the space that will allow your wedding’s style to come alive. Your wedding venue is important and special for so many reasons, and deciding where you will host your celebration will likely make your soiree feel even more real.
Deciding on a venue is wonderful. But there are plenty of steps that happen in between. First, you will want to decide on your budget. Then you will want to narrow your search to a specific venue style and general area. As you consider your options, another thought might occur to you:
Can we get married at an Airbnb?
The short answer: Yes.
In this post, we’ll explore some fabulous Airbnb venues for weddings, as well as all the things you should keep in mind for this type of wedding venue.
Table of contents
20 of the Best Airbnb Wedding Venues
Check out this list of some of our favorite top Airbnb venues available for your wedding day.
Castle Vineyard
Have you ever dreamed of getting married at a vineyard or a castle? You can knock out both dreams with this castle vineyard property located in Cleveland, Wisconsin. You’ll feel like you are in a Tuscan villa overlooking the 20 acres of this stunning vineyard landscape. There are 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a hot tub, a private sauna, a fire pit, a piano, and a wine hall among so much more.
Beautiful Vineyard Barn House
This spacious and newly renovated large barn has a beautiful view of the Grand Valley, Colorado. Get married among the vines under Mt. Garfield. After your vows, spend the weekend together and celebrate with your guests at one of the many wineries. You’ll imagine the gorgeous photographs you can take in the orchard or in the vineyard. There are two bedrooms and two baths on the property.
Wedding-friendly 11BR Oceanfront
If you are thinking about having a beach wedding then consider renting the entire Halekai III complex containing 11 bedrooms and 11 full baths. From the moment you arrive at this island paradise, you will be immersed in relaxation and comfort. It’s hard to mention a missing feature from this ideal beach house. Located directly on the Gulf of Mexico with a gorgeous 100′ private beach, this expansive house is approximately 6.4 miles west of Highway 59. The Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge, with miles of pristine, undeveloped shoreline is only a short walk down the beach. Every room in this grand beach house features a spectacular view of the Gulf or Lagoon waters and provides access to a deck overlooking the water. Wrap-around balconies access the extraordinary views on the second and third levels.
Whispering River Ranch On The River
This log cabin is absolutely unbelievable. Situated on 15 acres in Breckenridge, Colorado, this home will be the perfect backdrop to a mountain wedding. Your riverfront views overlook the fork of the Swan and Blue Rivers and are adjacent to the White River National Forest. With 8 bedrooms and 8.5 baths, this gorgeous home can accommodate 24. Say your vows overlooking the water with the mountains in the background. This jaw-dropping property will provide memories to last a lifetime for you and your spouse and your guests.
Big Bend Luxury Yurt
It’s not a tent but a yurt! And it’s actually pretty luxurious on the inside. This custom yurt sits at the entrance of Big Bend National Park in Terlingua, Texas. There are 4 yurts on the property and each private yurt has a king-size bed, plush designer seating, full bathroom, kitchenette, dining table, wood-burning fireplace, furnished deck, personal telescope, and much more. Every yurt has the modern conveniences as first-class lodging and woud be the ultimate boho chic wedding venue.
Desert Hot Springs Villa
Have your own little Desert Hot Springs, California wedding with this villa. The perfect party place for friends and family. You won’t need to worry about where to set up the bar because it comes with its own tiki bar right beside the saltwater pool. This property is made for parties and celebrations. Besides the pool and bar, you’ll find a fire pit, mini golf, and hot tub. The home can sleep up to 16 guests. Your friends and family will be 20 minutes from downtown Palm Springs and 30 minutes from Joshua Tree.
Luxury Stay in Southampton
Do you summer in the Hamptons, darling? No, I just get married there. This quintessential Southhampton home boasts the traditional shingled sides and landscaping you associate with the Hamptons. You also have an exquisite private pool with patio furniture for your guests to enjoy. There are multiple areas to host your ceremony outdoors. But it’s not only the beautiful exterior that will win you over. The inside is the definition of luxury as well. The home has four bedrooms and four baths and three designated sitting areas. Grab your friends and family and jaunt off to New York to celebrate your nuptials in style.
Rooftop Views in Atlanta
Considering a city vibe for your upcoming ceremony or wedding reception? Book this Atlanta home with a city view and a rooftop deck for your own urban oasis. The sweeping Atlanta skyline can be seen from this 360 view on a clear night. Not to mention plenty of space to celebrate after your “ I dos.” There is space for up to 8 guests to spend the night and if you are planning to enjoy the city you’re just a short walk or drive away from some of Atlanta’s main attractions.
Thimble Rock Point
Part secluded tiny home, part secret hideout, part cabin this unique home would be the perfect location for your rustic wedding. Nestled in the mountainside of an obscure Colorado canyon in Mesa County, this shelter is a stunning escape for your intimate wedding day. Host your close friends and family around the fire pit, watch the sunset around the mountains as the stars come out to shine over your guests, and celebrate your commitment.
Pyramid House
Okay, this one may be a little wacky but if you can’t go to Egypt to exchange your vows then what about Clear Lake, Iowa? It’s not exactly the desert landscape but to say you pledge your eternal love to each other next to a pyramid would be pretty incredible. Bring your friends because this renovated home sleeps up to 16 guests. There are two kitchens and a wet bar area so plenty of room for eating and drinking and being merry. And Clear Lake is directly across the street so you’ll be able to enjoy water activities if you book during the summer months!
Family Friendly House
Are kids allowed at your wedding? Well, they should be if you choose this Airbnb for your wedding location. Whether you have lots of friends with children or your friends are just kids at heart this home in Scottsdale, Arizona is the perfect playground. This home has it all with a pool, spa, commercial playground, a toy town with playhouses and cars, a splash pad, basketball court, shuffleboard, putting green, oversize lawn games, soccer field, pickleball and so much more. You’ll want to say your vows as quick as possible so you have enough time to play!
Lake Norman Lake House
A wedding by the lake is so dreamy. You can exchange vows on the lawn with the lake behind you or even out on the private dock with the water lapping underneath your feet. This home is pure luxury inside and out on the water of Lake Norman in North Carolina. The home can sleep up to 10 guests and has 4 bedrooms and 2 baths. Your guests will have access to the hot tub and expansive deck where you can toast to your new life together overlooking the water.
Liberty Villa Mansion
This 10,000-square-foot mansion in Purcellville, Virginia gives off major Daddy Warbucks vibes. With 29 total rooms and the capacity to sleep up to 16 guests this home has something and somewhere for everyone to enjoy. After your ceremony (perhaps by the guitar-shaped pool) your guests will have a chance to enjoy the beautiful grounds, library, game room, rec room, large living areas, bar and so much more. This space is perfect for a red carpet-themed wedding with modern elegance.
Mars Garden in Joshua Tree
If you to plan the perfect boho, desert chic wedding consider this immaculate home in the heart of Joshua Tree, California. With plenty of space for friends and family, this home will offer multiple photo ops for you and your betrothed to capture the day. You could even get married standing in the shallow wadding pool with the desert sun setting behind you. The home comfortably sleeps up to 16 guests and is perfect for any size group.
El Castillo de Las Bocas
A true destination wedding. Invite your friends and family to Huatabampo, Sonora, Mexico for your wedding and get married at this amazing castle. This home sleeps up to 16 guests and has a beautiful pool and direct beach access. It may feel like a bigger leap to book an international wedding venue but you won’t be disappointed in the memories you’ll make.
Rosete Family Farms
The Rosete Family Farms guest house in Garfield, Arkansas is perfect for a wedding. It is a beautiful modern 1,400 sqft farmhouse and lucky you, it also has a 1,200 sqft event center attached that can be rented separately to host showers & weddings & receptions. Situated on an organic blueberry farm this little guest house sleeps up to ten. It’s the ideal venue for your laidback, rustic farm wedding. Don’t forget your mason jars.
Grand View
After watching every season of Yellowstone together you and your partner may want to actually get married there! Well you can with this home in Tetonia, Idaho you’ll be close to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. You’ll be in awe of the Teton views in the background. This ranch-style home sleeps up to 14 guests with lots of space to spread out and enjoy each other without feeling cramped. Imagine saying I do in the backyard with the snow-capped mountains behind you.
Luxury in Los Angeles
If going for Hollywood glam for your wedding theme then consider taking the wedding to LA. This classic LA villa will have you and your partner feeling like celebrities. Make sure to take some paparazzi shots for the wedding album. The home sleeps 10 with 5 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. It’s a short walk to Melrose and a short drive to shops at Beverly Grove and Rodeo Drive.
Classic Luxury Yacht
Yes, you can Airbnb a 78’ Classic Luxury Yacht. This vessel is docked in Gig Harbor, Washington. This yacht, originally commissioned and built in New York Harbor has hosted many esteemed guests such as the Rolling Stones, Elton John, and Heart. So why not get married among the elite onboard this beauty? Make sure to find a true captain to officiate your vows and then cue up the playlist and dance the night away with hits from the previous famous guests!
Private Island
Yes, you can get married on a private island off the coast of Sanibel, Florida. This home has been featured on HGTV and in Grandeur Magazine. Crescent Island has only one home on the entire island & a dock with access to the Gulf and the Intracoastal Waterway. The property includes three levels of decks with a screened-in deck off the living room. The home offers 4 bedrooms+rec room with pullout for 2, 4.5 baths + an outdoor shower with views from each room. Scour the 4 acres of the island and find the perfect spot to exchange vows!
How To Decide if an Airbnb Wedding Venue is Right for You
Of course, like every other decision you will make while planning your wedding, there are plenty of other facets to explore. So, below we’re sharing when an Airbnb might be a great fit (and when it might not be the best option), facts to keep in mind, and how to find the right Airbnb for your wedding day. Keep reading!
Is an Airbnb the right fit for my wedding?
Before we can share how to find an Airbnb, it’s important to note the types of weddings (and couples!) this style of celebration suits best. Below are five key areas to keep in mind.
Budget:
Renting an Airbnb is a great way to extend your budget a little further. Most rentals will cost less than a traditional venue, but it’s important to keep in mind that the costs could escalate. That’s because you’re likely going to rent the home for an extended period of time (a long weekend) rather than a single day. The major bonus, though, is having a built-in vacation with your closest family and friends.
Guest Count:
An Airbnb is not the place to welcome 50, 100, or 200 of your friends and family members for the same type of wedding you might host at a more traditional wedding venue. Hosting your celebration at an Airbnb, so keep in mind that you will essentially be planning a micro wedding. Airbnb wedding venues are great for couples who love the idea of a small wedding with just immediate family and maybe a few close friends.
Hands-On:
Every Airbnb is owned by a host who is almost always ready to answer all of your questions while you’re staying at their property. However, many hosts are not onsite like a venue coordinator would be at a traditional wedding space. That means you will become the go-to person to answer easy questions, like directions and where to park, and harder questions, like how to turn on the outdoor lights and how to keep the bathroom in working order.
No Changes:
At some wedding venues, you can make changes. You could opt to celebrate in a tent or in a space inside, hang string lights to add extra ambiance, hang a chandelier over the dance floor, or weave greenery overhead. If you need to control the temperature, you can add fans or heat. You can even place a bar in the perfect spot for guests to enjoy a beautiful view. At an Airbnb, what you see is truly what you get – you can’t really make changes because you’re celebrating at someone’s home. It’s a completely understandable rule and definitely one to honor, but it’s also something to keep in mind when you’re on Pinterest or deciding on the season when you would like to celebrate.
Vibe:
The overall feel of a wedding hosted at an Airbnb will be more relaxed. Your time will feel like your own with a wedding that just so happens to occur in the middle of it all. So, if your personality leans toward laid back and you’re comfortable acting as a pseudo house manager for the weekend, an Airbnb will feel ideal! But, if you want to fully feel like a guest, you may want to explore other wedding venues instead. (Or maybe hire a wedding planner to oversee all the logistics and details.)
An Airbnb sounds ideal! What else should we know?
Location: When couples research traditional venues, they do tend to keep the ease of traveling to the space in mind for their guests. That’s still important to note here! If you’re planning a destination wedding experience, keep the distance in mind for the guests you invite. You’ll also want to note how far it is from major cities. That will impact the ease of finding additional wedding professionals who can assist on your wedding day (more on that below).
Airbnb tips
Whether you’ve dreamed of getting married in Joshua Tree, California, New York City, or Tuscany, Italy, Airbnb is sure to have some unique options for you to consider hosting your big day.
The Home Itself: While a rental may have an ideal view, the home itself might not be quite what you have in mind (and, vice versa!). Remember that you’re renting an Airbnb for your wedding. The qualities that might be important for a vacation might not apply in the same ways here. For example, a nice view and a spacious backyard or deck might top your list of outdoor must-haves. On the other hand, a beautiful dining room or fireplace might feel most important inside in case of inclement weather.
Venue tip
Keep seasons and weather in mind! Do you love the indoor spaces as much as the outdoor spaces in case it’s too hot, too cold, or too rainy to enjoy a meal alfresco? This is the time to love a home in its entirety.
Additional Vendors: Choosing to celebrate your wedding day at an Airbnb takes care of the venue piece of your wedding, but you may still want to involve a few vendors. A florist can still provide arrangements for your bouquet, boutonniere, ceremony, and reception. You might want a chef or caterer to cook your wedding meal. You might not want to do your own hair and makeup. When you’re choosing your location, as we mentioned above, keep the distance from other professionals in mind. If you’re too remote, you may find pros aren’t as willing to travel to you.
Airbnb tips
Ask your Airbnb host if they have any recommendations for local vendors for the various services you need. Chances are they have some insight into the local area!
How do I find an Airbnb to rent for my wedding?
You know all of the pros and cons, and you’ve decided an Airbnb is a perfect fit for your wedding. We are so excited for you! Below, we’re detailing how to find an Airbnb for your wedding. It’s not quite the same as finding a rental for a trip. Keep reading to know which filters to apply to your search.
Step 1: Just like you would if you were looking to rent an Airbnb for a vacation, you will type in your location and the dates* you plan to visit at the top. Before you select additional filters, it might be helpful to do a traditional search just to view the types of rentals available in that area. If you don’t like what you see, you may want to widen your search to include other locations.
*Plan to stay for at least two, if not three, nights.
Step 2: You will want to keep your choice location set. Then you will want to increase your guest count to 16 people. That signals to Airbnb that you will need a larger space for your property. These are also the spaces that allow events to occur. A wedding in a small apartment is not quite going to work!
Step 3: As Airbnb notes, you will also want to add one more filter to your search. Under “House Rules” check off “suitable for events”. Not every Airbnb – even the ones that are large enough – allows guests to host events. You only want to consider the spaces that welcome weddings!
Step 4: Once you’ve narrowed down your options and have your eye on a particular property, contact the host. You already know they allow events, but it’s important to review your plans with them to ensure they’re open to hosting your specific gathering. You will also want to know a bit more about what’s available onsite.
Step 5: At this point, you will pay for your Airbnb!
View Real Airbnb Weddings:
See wedding photos from real weddings at Airbnb venues that have been featured here on The Budget Savvy Bride:
Explore wedding locations on Airbnb
Want a laid-back wedding day that isn’t cookie-cutter? If that sounds perfect to you, consider a unique Airbnb rental for your wedding venue. Whether you’re planning an adventure elopement or an intimate ceremony with close family, Airbnb is a savvy option.
Browse Airbnb listings to find the perfect wedding location for your small wedding!
Are you planning an intimate affair and are considering an Airbnb wedding? Join us in the community to discuss finding the best Airbnb wedding venue for your big day!
Additional Reading:
- Top Apps for Saving Money on a Destination Wedding
- Wedding Budget Tip #34: Consider a Destination Wedding
- The Biggest Mistakes Couples Make When Planning a Destination Wedding
- Our Top Ten Destination Wedding Tips
- How to Have a Beautiful Destination Wedding on a Budget
Note: At the time of publication, Airbnb has temporarily placed the ability to book spaces for events on hold due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Neither they nor we know when bookings will resume, but we hope they will soon! This article is meant to act as a helpful piece outside of a pandemic. We are not suggesting hosting a gathering that goes against state and local regulations. Please the health and safety of you and your guests in mind at all times.
