How to Plan an AirBnB Wedding or Elopement in 2024
How to Plan an AirBnB Elopement
Over the past 5 years of capturing Colorado elopements, couples have been embracing smaller and more intimate weddings and elopements, and I am here for that! These weddings are often held at an AirBnb because people have vacation homes in some stunning areas of our state. Staying at these homes can be a really fantastic experience for you and your guests because it feels more personal and laid back.
If getting married in a stuffy ballroom is not your style and you prefer a mountain view, then I suggest that you check out the options to rent something that matches your vibe. And AirBnB doesn’t just rent homes; you can also rent campers, boats, and log cabins.
From a photographer’s point of view, the photos of the getting ready process are rad compared to a generic hotel room, and It really makes people feel more comfortable if they are in a more home-like setting. You can even add your touches like hiring a caterer or chef to come in and prepare snacks and meals, so you have your own private “room service.”
CAN YOU ELOPE AT AN AIRBNB?
Absolutely! Depending on how the host sets up their place, you can totally elope at your Airbnb! You can do it a number of different ways but some of the most common are: 1) Holding a part of the reception at your Airbnb after you elope or 2) holding your elopement at your Airbnb. You would have to keep in mind both options when searching AirBnb elopement venues but most places are set up perfectly depending on your vision!
Keep reading below for more tips on how to elope at an AirBnb!
PLANNING TIPS AND CHECKLIST BEFORE YOU BOOK AN AIRBNB
MAKE SURE IT’S EVENT FRIENDLY
AirBnB doesn’t have a way to directly search for properties that are suitable for events, but I’ve got a workaround for you. Use VRBO, because they have an “events allowed” filter. You can book through them, or search for the same property on AirBnB if you prefer using them. You do not want to assume that if you find a spot that works for your event that you can have a wedding there (no matter how small your guest list is) because that could be against the terms of your agreement.
The last thing you want on your wedding day is to find out an officiant, photographer, or another vendor is not allowed on the property and risk losing a hefty security deposit.
If you find a Colorado AirBnB that you think would work well for you and it’s not listed as event-friendly, message the owner. Sometimes they haven’t thought about making the space available for events, and if you explain to them what your plans are, they may agree to let you use the space for an intimate event. Be sure the permission is detailed in your contract!
WHERE SHOULD WE LOOK FOR OUR AIRBNB?
This may seem backward, but I recommend choosing places for photos before you book an AirBnB in Colorado, especially if you are not familiar with the area. Going up and down mountain roads may take longer than you plan if you’re just looking at a map and going by mileage. You don’t want to choose a place that is a long drive from where you are getting married because you don’t want to spend your time in Colorado in a car!
KNOW THE LOCAL AIRBNB RULES AND JURISDICTIONS
Read the rules before you book! Some AirBnB’s in Colorado can be really strict about noise and may have limited parking spaces for guests and vendors. It can be a huge downer finding out you’re not allowed to be outside after a certain hour when you planned on having a fun campfire with some adult beverages with your guests.
If parking is limited, ask the owner if there are options for parking nearby, or ask if you can hire a valet service for your guests.
CONSIDER RENTING
With some exceptions, most Colorado AirBnb’s you will find will have basics in terms of tableware and cookware. So if you want something that looks a bit more elegant, you can rent things to uplevel the look. That’s the great thing about a smaller wedding; you can spend the money to make the details pop because you don’t have a huge guest list!
Things like special chairs for the dinner table, tents, outdoor furniture, and heaters are just a few ideas. There are so many ways to personalize the day, so it makes it more fun for you and your guests (and looks great in your photos, too).
STAY IN AND HIRE OUT
I think this idea is one of my favorites because there’s nothing like having someone serve you fantastic food while laughing and talking with your friends without having to go to a restaurant. Hiring a private chef or caterer means you don’t have to worry about anything, and they do clean up too. I mean, who wants to do dishes on their wedding day? Make sure that whomever you hire brings their cookware, etc. because most Colorado AirBnB’s just have the basics.
A food truck can be fun for super casual weddings or late-night eats! Bring on the street tacos or pizza, and your guests will love you for it.
AIRBNB’S CAN FEEL LIKE YOUR OWN PRIVATE HOTEL
Choosing a luxurious AirBnB allows you to keep everyone in close proximity, providing an ideal setting for your intimate celebration. While it may involve a slightly higher cost, it serves as a gracious gesture to express gratitude to your guests for making the journey to your wedding. Having everyone on-site fosters a wonderful atmosphere, facilitating shared moments and cherished time with family. Some Airbnb’s might even offer packages for your elopement!
COME EARLY AND ENJOY THE SCENERY
After finding the perfect AirBnB in Colorado, don’t arrive on the same day as your wedding. It’s so much more relaxed if you can get in a few days early to decompress and get to know the property and decide where you want to have your events for your day.
It’s also a good time to look at the property thinking in terms of your photos. Remember that some of these homes are vacation homes for people, so they may have themed artwork that doesn’t quite fit your vibe. If it’s allowable, you can remove the decor items that don’t mesh and store them away. Just be sure to return them before you leave (taking a photo of the exact location is helpful).
LOOK FOR COOL AIRBNB FEATURES
AirBnB’s are going to give you more unique and fun features than those boring hotels. Some of these features will go a long way in elevating your AirBnB elopement experience, especially if you’re ready to kick back or host a party.
Some of my favorite AirBnB elopement features to look for:
- The majority of AirBnB’s in Colorado won’t have pools but they’ll have the next best thing: hot tubs! Which are extra awesome for winter elopements!
- Look for a place with a big deck so you can host your friends and family easier.
- Look for AirBnB’s that are easily accessible and don’t require any special clearance for vehicles.
- Some bigger AirBnB’s will have great kitchens but an outdoor BBQ is also great, especially in the summer months!
AIRBNB’S IN COLORADO ARE PERFECT
Every couple I have worked with who has rented an AirBnB in Colorado has been glad they did. There’s just a more chill and relaxed feeling when you can have an entire property to share your day with friends and family.
We have so many fantastic areas here in Colorado, and so many epic properties to consider! If you’re considering several Colorado AirBnB’s and can’t decide, send me a message. I can give you the lowdown on the area, and it’s possible I’ve even photographed a wedding there.
Elopements and small weddings are definitely my jam, and I’d love to help you out and help you find the right location for your wedding. Check out my elopement packages, it’s chock full of information on the elopements here including the best days to get married, the cost, and some ideas like my popular backpacking weddings.
I might be biased, but I think you’re going to love your elopement here in Colorado!
AIRBNB ELOPEMENT TEAM
My name is Sean, and I can’t wait to help create your Colorado AirBnB elopement! I’m a Colorado-based free spirit who has dedicated my life to exploring this wild world and connecting to the people in it.
I know firsthand what an important and personal decision this is—my wife and I eloped to Northern Ireland. You’re trusting me to capture this amazing day, and I make it my responsibility to make sure you have an incredible experience from start to finish.
My passion has led me here, where I can follow my heart and share my love for the outdoors with others on their wedding day. It’s truly an awesome experience, and I’m stoked every time I get to document your day.
When I’m not photographing couples, I love to go exploring with my wife and our corgi. Our dream is to own an Airstream and take Vows and Peaks on the road!
Sound like the perfect match? Reach out so we can get started on your epic elopement!
Last Updated on February 22, 2024 by vowsandpeaks
