Indio California VRBO Wedding VenueVilla in Indio, CA; VRBO

How to Find Airbnb or VRBO Wedding Venues

Published:
July 21, 2024
Updated:
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

Renting a private home for your wedding venue is a popular choice among couples who are having a micro wedding. We covered the benefits of choosing to have your wedding at an Airbnb in our latest blog, The Complete Guide to Airbnb Micro Weddings, and now we’re going to show you how to find an Airbnb wedding venue.

There are many private home rental sites in the US, including Airbnb, VRBO, Vacasa, and a collection of boutique rental sites as well. In this blog we’ll be covering each one of these in depth, including pros and cons, features, and what you can expect when renting a property through them.

Finding Airbnb Wedding Venues for Your Micro Wedding

What website to use

  • Airbnb
  • VRBO
  • Vacasa
  • Other Home Rental Sites
see this venue
see this venue
see this venue
see this venue
see this venue

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​
Washington Log Cabin Private Home Wedding VenueLog Cabin near Steven's Pass, WA; VRBO

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
Hot Springs VRBO Private Home Wedding VenueSleeping Child Hot Springs in Hamilton, MT; VRBO

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!

Check out our full lists of VRBO and Airbnb Wedding Venues:

Daytona Beach Private Home VRBO Wedding VenueDaytona Beach, FL Estate; VRBO

Tips for a Smooth Booking Experience

Early Planning and Booking

Like any wedding venue, the earlier you’re able to find and book an Airbnb for your micro wedding, the better off you’ll be. Even though smaller weddings can have shorter planning timelines, popular locations will book up quickly. By starting your search early, you will ensure the best possible options.

Additionally, having flexibility with your dates, and even considering a weekday wedding can improve availability and potentially introduce some cost savings.

Talk to the Host

I don’t recommend booking until you’ve been in contact with the host to confirm your wedding vision can come to life at their property. Send them an email through the platform where you found the home with the following information:

  • Planned dates
  • Wedding size
  • How many guests will be staying with you
  • Desired hours of the event
  • Any planned pre or post wedding activities (ie rehearsal dinner, post-wedding brunch)
  • Planned entertainment
  • Catering / food plan

By following this guide, you will be able to find and book the perfect Airbnb venue for your wedding, ensuring a memorable and stress-free event. Additionally, considering alternatives like VRBO and boutique rental agencies can provide more options and potentially better fits for specific needs.​ Remember to book early and be transparent with the host and you’ll be sure to have a memorable event.

Author Bio
Jennie Swenson is a former micro wedding bride, and she now supports countless couples in planning their own intimate celebrations through her blog, featuring real micro wedding stories and a curated vendor directory. Her practical advice and firsthand experience make her a go-to resource for those seeking to create memorable and meaningful micro weddings.

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