How to Find Airbnb or VRBO Wedding Venues

Alternatives to Airbnb for Private Home Wedding Venues

Several years back, Airbnb changed its policies for parties at the properties listed on their site which means that finding a location that will allow you to host your wedding can be challenging, but not impossible. Here are some alternatives:

VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner)

VRBO is an excellent choice when it comes to finding a private residence for your micro wedding.  VRBO has similar listings to Airbnb, in fact, many properties you’ll find on Airbnb, you’ll also find on VRBO.

Benefits:

• More flexible event policies
• Convenient event filters: waterfront, events allowed
• Similar listings to Airbnb

Vacasa

Vacasa is another great choice. I love their easy-to-use filters (including one for wedding venues) and the fact that you can guarantee a good experience and quality stay because Vacasa directly manages all the properties on its site.

Benefits:

• Wedding venue filter, along with lakeview, ocean view, and mountain view filters
• Properties are managed by Vacasa so they

Boutique Private Home Rental Agencies

There are a number of boutique rental agencies that specialize in curating some of the most luxurious and unique properties around the world, some of which could be a great fit for your micro wedding.

Examples:

• One Fine Stay: some of the finest luxury rentals.
• Cuvee: luxurious destination weddings to some of the world’s most exclusive locations.

Benefits:

• personalized service
• unique amenities
• curated listings
• often higher-end properties such as mansions and private estates suitable for luxury weddings​

Understanding Policies

Each location is going to have their own set of policies so it’s important to be in touch with the host directly to understand the rules and fees associated with hosting a wedding on the property. Things to look for:

• Noise ordinances, quiet hours
• On-site parking
• Additional event fees
• Cancellation policies

Steps to Book the Perfect Airbnb for Your Micro Wedding

1. Look through each private home rental website you find
2. Use filters to uncover properties that fit your vision, guest list size, and location
3. Use the favorites tools on the websites to begin to compile your list of potential locations
4. Use this 50 Questions to Ask a Wedding Venue guide to begin to narrow down your list
5. Email the hosts to inquire about having your event at their property (see template below)
6. As you’re narrowing down your list, be sure to consider all expenses such as insurance, rental fees, and additional amenities you’ll need to rent or buy to complete your event
7. Once you have your short list, go on tour. If you’re not in the area, ask for a virtual tour or at the very least, pictures of another wedding on site.
8. Make your decision!