How to Plan Your Airbnb Wedding

Airbnb Weddings In Colorado

Airbnb weddings have become an increasingly popular choice for couples planning intimate celebrations, especially here in Colorado. As an elopement and wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how these one-of-a-kind wedding days—often set in cozy cabins, mountaintop retreats, or stylish modern homes—allow couples to create something truly personal and meaningful.

While the shift toward elopements and smaller weddings was accelerated by the pandemic, I believe this is more than just a passing trend. I’m a huge supporter of adventure elopements and intimate, Airbnb weddings that reflect the real connection and values of each couple. These kinds of celebrations offer the freedom to plan a day that feels like you, not one shaped by tradition or outside expectations.

If the idea of exchanging vows in a mountain cabin rather than a hotel ballroom already feels like a breath of fresh air—keep reading. This blog is for you.

Why Choose An Airbnb Wedding?
How to Find the Perfect Home
Important Things to Consider
Booking Your Airbnb Wedding Location
Maximizing Your Airbnb Wedding With Personal Details

Why Choose An Airbnb Wedding?

There’s something really special about hosting your wedding at an Airbnb—and Colorado is full of stunning homes that feel like they were made for moments like this. Whether it’s a cozy lakeside retreat, a cute ski-town mountain home, or something entirely unique, planning an Airbnb wedding in Colorado gives you the freedom to choose a space that reflects your relationship and matches your wedding aesthetic perfectly.

While traditional weddings often come with stress, having your intimate wedding at an Airbnb provides a sense of unmatched comfort. Getting ready in a house that feels like home, with your people close by, can take the pressure off and help the day feel grounded and calm. It’s a different energy than a typical venue…and it’s a good one.

And if you’re renting your Airbnb for a few days, it opens the door to so many extra possibilities. You’re not rushing to pack everything into a single day or afternoon—you have time to savor it all, for however long you like. That might mean writing letters to each other over morning coffee, popping out for some starry night-portraits, or exchanging vows privately before the ceremony. A slower pace lets you create deeper, more personalized memories- and trust me, those are the moments you’ll never forget.

How to Find the Perfect Home For Your Airbnb Wedding

With so many gorgeous vacation rentals to choose from, finding the right spot for your Airbnb wedding can feel a little overwhelming at first. I recommend starting with the general area you’d love to be in. Is there a town that means something special to you? A specific mountain range or natural feature you’ve always envisioned in your wedding photos? Once you’ve narrowed down the region, you can start looking for homes that match your aesthetic and your vision for the day.

To help you start brainstorming, I’ve created in-depth guides for two of Colorado’s most iconic mountain towns—Estes Park and Breckenridge. These guides are packed with location recommendations and planning tips to help you visualize what your Airbnb wedding could look like:

• Estes Park
• Breckenridge

If you’re hoping to explore nearby trails, visit a favorite overlook, or capture wedding portraits in a specific location, make sure the Airbnb is close enough to make that easy for everyone involved. One of the best things about planning an Airbnb wedding is being able to skip the extra venue transitions. However, if you’re dreaming of an adventure elopement-style photo session, or a night on the town, proximity really matters. You’ll want a place that lets you enjoy the day without spending too much time on the road. 

Important Things to Consider When Choosing Your Airbnb Wedding Rental

Now that you’ve narrowed down the location, and maybe even identified a few potential Airbnb rentals for your wedding, it’s time to find the perfect one. Consider what you want your wedding day to include. Do you envision a large deck, a hot tub, or a spacious outdoor area where everyone can gather?

Airbnb even offers a “unique stays” filter that can help you find a house as distinctive as you are. Aim to choose a home that aligns with your wedding aesthetic, minimizing the need for extensive additions. However, for those extra touches, I recommend renting items from a local event rental company – I’ll touch more on that in a moment.

It’s also important to have a backup plan for inclement weather. Since weddings and elopements are often planned months (or even a year) ahead of time, you never know what the forecast will bring. Ensure that your chosen Airbnb or VRBO has provisions for a rain plan. Can you set up a tent or move the event indoors if it starts raining or if the weather turns unfavorable?

Lighting is another essential factor to consider. While photographers may work magic, some spaces may be too dark for those seeking “bright + airy” photography. If you’re not a fan of flash photography, ensure there is ample natural light available from the windows. Keeping these factors in mind can make a huge difference when choosing your Airbnb wedding “venue.”

Booking Your Airbnb Wedding Location

Once you’ve found a few Airbnb or VRBO options that meet your criteria, it’s time to start reaching out to hosts and making connections. Keep in mind that most Airbnb properties have guest limits. If you need a little more flexibility, you can sometimes book directly with the host outside of Airbnb, if they offer that. When you do, you’ll follow the host’s rules rather than Airbnb’s.

Pro tip: VRBO lets you filter your search to show only properties where events are allowed, making it easier to find a wedding-friendly space.

When you contact the host (and always contact the host directly no matter what), be open and transparent about your plans and the number of guests you’re expecting. Some hosts may not allow events, but many will, especially for smaller celebrations or if you’re willing to provide a security deposit.

You’ll also want to ask if the space is photography-friendly and if there are any city ordinances to be aware of. Some hosts might charge a fee for professional photography, while others may welcome the extra exposure. Since your wedding photos will capture every beautiful moment and candid emotion, it’s important to make sure you’re able to document your day without restrictions.

As for city ordinances, check with the host about parking rules and noise regulations for your Airbnb wedding. If the neighborhood has quiet hours starting at 9 PM, you’ll want to plan your evening accordingly. And if the property only allows 3 vehicles on-site, you’ll need to arrange additional parking and transportation. If you’re hoping to include your furry friends in the celebration, don’t forget to confirm the pet policy!

Before you book, take some time to read through guest reviews of the property. Reviews often reveal hidden gems—or flag potential issues—you might not catch otherwise. Just like you’d check restaurant reviews before a big dinner, browsing property feedback can give you helpful insight for your big day.

And remember: as your wedding day cheerleader and professional third-wheel, I’m here to help you along the way. Let’s bounce some ideas around and find a space that’s perfect for you! 

Maximizing Your Airbnb Wedding With Personal Details

Since you typically can’t visit an Airbnb or VRBO property in person before your wedding, it’s crucial to gather as much information as possible from the provided photos and host. If you can, try to arrive a day or two early. This extra time lets you explore the property, get comfortable with the space, and take a breath before diving into the wedding day. It also gives you the chance to pick out your favorite spots for photos and ensure everything is set up exactly as you envisioned.

Now, about those event rentals I mentioned earlier—this is the perfect time to bring them into the picture. If your Airbnb or VRBO already aligns with your wedding vision, consider using some of your budget to enhance the space even further. Renting items like rugs, ceremony chairs, antique furniture, or dinnerware from a local event rental company can add personal touches and help create the unique atmosphere you’ve been dreaming of.

For a gourmet experience, consider hiring a private chef, arranging a food truck (if allowed), or catering the meal directly to your Airbnb. This eliminates the need for searching for a venue that accommodates your group’s food preferences, reserving extra private restaurant spaces, and organizing transportation. If you opt for a private chef, be sure to communicate your specific requirements and inform them of any supplies you already have at the property.

Planning ahead is key! Create a checklist for things to pack—like extension cords, a speaker, extra hangers, outfits, and snacks. It’s easy to forget small items in the excitement, so a checklist can save you from last-minute stress. Don’t forget to include any special touches, like mementos or personal items you’d like featured in your photos. To make it even easier, I’ve created a detailed packing checklist you can use.

Finally, consider the logistics for your guests. If parking is limited at the property, reach out to the host to discuss nearby parking options or ask about local shuttle or transportation services. The smoother you make things for your guests, the more you can focus on enjoying the day and capturing those precious moments.

Let’s Start Planning Your Airbnb Wedding!

If you’re looking for a wedding day that truly reflects your unique love story, an Airbnb wedding could be exactly what you’re after. Imagine trading the stress of tight timelines for a relaxed, intimate celebration that’s all about you and your partner. And, I would be thrilled at the opportunity to support you in breaking tradition as you embrace your own vision and create something unforgettable.

If you’re ready to create a wedding day that’s truly meaningful and centered on you, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. With a focus on intentional planning and authentic moments, I work with couples who demand “more” from the wedding industry—empowering you to make decisions that reflect your values and celebrate your love story without compromise.

Head to my Contact Page to ask any questions or start planning your Airbnb wedding. As a photographer who specializes in intimate weddings and elopements across Colorado, I’m here to guide you through every step, ensuring that your wedding day unfolds in a way that feels true to you both—unfiltered, intentional, and aligned with the core values of your marriage.