Everything You Need to Know To Have an Airbnb Elopement

Plan the Perfect Elopement at an Airbnb

Why Go for An Airbnb Elopement?

Let’s explore the top reasons for choosing an Airbnb elopement for your memorable day.

Unique & Innovative

Traditional venues' pre-made packages may not be the way you want to go for your special day. With Airbnb, there are so many options to choose from—from a rustic house to a modern loft. You have the option for complete personalization with uniqueness and innovation to bring your vision to life!

Beautiful Views

Airbnb properties are everywhere, so your dream elopement is possible with the views of your choice. All you have to do is envision your perfect Airbnb elopement ceremony – is it in the mountains or on the beach? Or in your favorite city? Then explore through the number of Airbnb homes available to you with scenic beauty and inviting natural backdrops.

Privacy & Exclusivity

If you're like me and prefer smaller gatherings with family and friends, then you'll probably feel at home in an intimate Airbnb elopement ceremony that offers privacy and exclusivity. Say goodbye to any distractions or chaos as you and your partner enjoy each other's company in a lovely location with a peaceful environment. After all, no one else matters more than you and your partner on this day!

Budget-friendly

Traditional weddings are known to put a hole in your pocket! Couples start saving early because venues, flowers, catering, and photography can cost quite a lot. With an Airbnb elopement, it’s a little easier to keep the budget low. You can budget more conveniently since you'll be saving money by not selecting an expensive venue. With an Airbnb celebration, you can spend money on what means the most to you – a honeymoon getaway, a 5-star meal, seasoned photographer (be sure to check out the full guide to elopement costs for help with budgeting). And isn't that more special?

Things To Keep in Mind When Planning Your Airbnb Elopement

An Airbnb elopement is simpler than a traditional wedding, but it still requires thoughtful planning to ensure you have a wonderful day with your partner without any hiccups! The following steps will ensure your vow exchange ceremony is all you’ve ever wanted.

Selecting the Airbnb You LOVE

In order to celebrate your dreams, it is essential to choose the perfect Airbnb property. Finding the perfect property comes up a lot in our micro wedding and elopement planning Facebook group. Here are some pointers that can help you choose the right property.

• Setting: What location would be the best for your ceremony? Are you an outdoorsy individual with a love for nature or the beach? Or do you prefer a warm indoor intimate mood? There are so many possibilities when it comes to ideas for your elopement.
• Property Specifications: After you finalize the location and setting, think about the Airbnb property. It should have all the amenities that you may need such as great views for photo opportunities or maybe a cozy fireplace or hot tub.
• Individual Style: When you’re going through Airbnb properties to choose your preferred one, you’ll come across a great range of styles – minimalist, extravagant, historical. Select the one that matches your vibe, vision, and taste so that you feel most at home.
• Visitor Reviews: Don’t forget to go through the comments of past visitors. Did they have a wonderful time or did they have some complaints? This will help you make an informed decision and avoid any issues later.

Finding the perfect Airbnb requires a little sleuthing, but we're covering all the best filters and search strategies in our full guide that you check out here.

Local Permits and Laws

Make sure to check the local permits and laws of the location where you're planning to have your ceremony. Some areas require special permits, other properties may have restrictions on celebrations within the premises. Therefore, checking for local laws and communicating everything with the host is essential for a smooth event day.

Quick note here, a lot of couples wonder about if you can even have a wedding at an Airbnb. The answer is, it depends. Be sure to check out our full guide on finding Airbnb wedding venues to learn the ins and outs of each platform and how to easily find private homes that allow weddings and elopements.

Ceremony Planning

Make the most of an Airbnb ceremony by planning and personalizing every element of it. This may include:

• Heartfelt Wedding Vows: when you’re eloping, you don’t have the pressure to adjust your vows to the large crowd. You can simply be yourself and let your heart speak truly (without any filter!). It will make you and your partner feel SO much more special and content!
• Thoughtful Décor: take charge of your private celebration by giving a personalized touch to the venue. Add flowers, candles, and fairy lights, or you could get your couple's photos printed to make for a lovely photo corner. If your Airbnb location is naturally beautiful with amazing views, you can simply make the most of them!
• Booking an Officiant: whether you're eloping in the presence of family members or not, having a legal officiant for the ceremony is important. You can even get a friend or family member to officiate if they're legally authorized.
• Backup Plan: if you’re planning to have your ceremony outdoors, having a backup plan for bad weather would be helpful. In such a case, an equally-loved indoor option would come in handy without making you feel bummed out.

Hire an Elopement Photographer & Videographer

Document everything! I know getting lots of pictures taken can make one anxious or exhausted (especially for us introverts!). But trust me, 5, 10, 15 years from now you’ll be glad you documented everything! So get those special, intimate memories captured forever to remember the wonderful, heartfelt time you had. Hire an elopement photographer/ videographer experienced in covering small-scale, private elopement ceremonies. Ask them to capture candid shots, views, details, and everything else in between. Find great options in our elopement photographer directory.

Post-ceremony Celebrations

The ceremony may end, but the celebrations have just started! Think and plan about how you and your significant other would like to celebrate your ceremony. Would you prefer a romantic dinner with just the two of you? Or a fun dance party with all your family and friends? Maybe you'd like to rush away for your honeymoon getaway? Or get more photos taken? It all depends on your personal preference which will help you make your day unforgettable. So plan for your post-ceremony celebrations to make the most of every second!