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An elopement at an Airbnb — a romantic option that I love, especially here in Washington state! We have so many fantastic cabin getaways that are great for a marriage celebration and mini-moon.
The logistics of an Airbnb elopement can be tricky, so I’m here to walk you through everything you should consider, how to find the right place to book, and a big list of wonderful options for you to look through!
Is My Elopement Allowed at an Airbnb?
Technically, events are not allowed at Airbnbs. If you’re looking for a space to host a wedding or larger reception, you’re probably better off booking a more traditional venue. But especially in Washington state, there are a ton of options that are elopement-friendly, for both ceremonies and small dinners!
No matter what you’re dreaming of, be sure to be upfront with your host about what you’re planning to make sure there are no issues down the line.
Watch Your Guest Count
If you’re planning an Airbnb elopement that’s especially intimate with just you and your partner, you typically will not encounter any issues. You’ll stay within the allowed Airbnb guest count, since it will be just the two of you and any vendors you hire for the day. However, make sure you’re clear with your host at booking about who will be on the property with you — “Our photographer will be with us for the day,” “We’ll have a makeup artist for the morning but no other guests,” or “We’ll have 3 vendors with us during the day but just the two of us overnight.”
If you do plan to have guests, this can complicate things. A lot of vacation rentals simply have limited space. When you’re looking for an airbnb in Florida, it’s not uncommon to see mansions with bedrooms enough for 20+ people. But here in Washington, cabins in the mountains and houses near the city are often geared at 5-10 people, which typically includes a loft space or sofa bed space! So if you’re hoping to have your loved ones bunk together, be prepared to look for multiple properties within a community.
If you’re planning on having your group congregate for a nice dinner, consider the space. Is there enough room in the backyard or on the deck? Is there space inside if it rains? How many cars can park there? Is it possible to set up tables in a way that won’t damage the home or landscape?
What About Decor?
The biggest issue you may run into is that many hosts will not allow decorations. Although, of course, that means a lot of different things to different people. Some flowers, maybe even a simple arch are a reasonable ask. Concerns from your host are usually around potential damage to walls or floors (banners or streamers, heavy furniture items, rearranging existing furniture) or impact on the land (planning on exploring the backyard? Are there sensitive flora out there?)
Extra Fees
In my experience, some hosts may charge an extra fee for professional photography onsite. You can always message the host of the property before you book to check on any extra fees so that they don’t surprise you later.
What to Look for While Planning an Airbnb Elopement
Finding the right Airbnb space for your elopement isn’t just about the location or even the aesthetics of the space. This isn’t just for any old weekend getaway, after all! Here’s what I recommend looking for while you’re on Airbnb hunting for that perfect location.
Amenities
This is not only things like wifi, but what about a hot tub? Good lighting? A lovely outdoor space? If you’re planning a ceremony on the property, then of course, you’ll want a cute porch or a private backyard with views. And if you’re heading to a more scenic spot to say your vows, then consider where you might want to do a first look!
Unique spaces also offer amenities that can make your elopement more memorable. A glamorous camper to kick off an anniversary tradition of unplugged weekend getaways, a spot close to a lake or river where you can incorporate kayaking or swimming. You can really use the thought and care Airbnb hosts put into their spaces to your advantage to create something really special!
Another thing to note is whether your chosen Airbnb is pet-friendly. Lots of couples look to bring their dogs along for their elopement, which is so much fun! But make sure you’re booking a pet-friendly property before bringing them with.
Size
If you’re getting ready separately, it would be easiest if there were multiple bedrooms and/or bathrooms to help you two avoid each other until your first look! And if you’d like to have guests, then of course you have to consider how many people the space can support, if there’s enough parking, if there’s room to seat everybody for a meal, and how many people the host will allow on the property.
This is a less important consideration if your Airbnb elopement plans are more intimate and don’t require that you and your partner hide from each other before the ceremony. But, it’s still important to consider how much space you both need to feel comfortable, to get ready with ease, and to incorporate any planned activities on the property.
Privacy
If you’re planning on spending time outside, consider how close your neighbors are! Is the hot tub in the front yard? Do you share a backyard? Is the property fenced or well-hidden by large trees? Is it close to the road or set back a ways?
By booking an Airbnb for your elopement, you’re already setting yourself up for a pretty private experience. But the last thing you want is to arrive and find out that the neighbor next door can see right in your windows from their windows!
The Best Airbnbs in Washington for Your Elopement
Okay, without further ado, I bring you my list of favorite Airbnbs where you can host your elopement! These are spaces I’ve visited and ones I haven’t yet, and they all have a unique feel that can offer something different for your elopement experience. I’ve expanded on my favorites and given you simple lists for the others to consider!
My Top 4
Hygge Hus
The Hygge Hus is a drop-dead gorgeous cabin in Deming, Washington, perfectly located for an Airbnb elopement in the North Cascades & Mt. Baker area. This is where I stayed for my own elopement last August, and it exceeded every expectation! The black exterior is stunning, the inside is cozy, and the deck is the perfect space for a little dinner (or dip in the cedarwood hot tub)!
1 bedroom • 1 bathroom • 2 beds (1 queen, 1 sofa) • No pets
Amenities:
– Indoor, mid century modern fireplace
– Fully stocked kitchen and an outdoor grill
– Private deck, balcony, and cedar hot tub
– Floor-to-ceiling windows that make for a perfect getting ready location
Know that:
– This space is not ADA accessible and requires going up uneven stairs to access the house
– It’s located inside a gated community
Best for:
– A getting ready space, intimate ceremony, or small dinner outdoors
Na-Mu Lodge
Na-Mu Lodge is the perfect place to stay for an elopement in Leavenworth, WA. Exposed wood beams and a cozy mountain getaway vibe, this space has huge windows so you can really soak in the views even when you’re cuddled up inside. And, it’s just 5 minutes from downtown Leavenworth.
4,000sq ft interior • 4 private suites with private bathrooms, plus one bunk room • Bunk room can sleep 8
Amenities:
- Wood burning fireplace indoors & outdoors
- Chef’s kitchen
- Hot tub
- Outdoor covered patio
Know that:
- This space requires 4-wheel drive or chains to access in the winter. The driveway has a sharp, slanting turn that will be hard to get up safely without the proper vehicle
- Dogs are welcome with a $50 fee per pet
Best for:
- An intimate gathering with up to 12-15 guests who can stay with you on the property. Think a micro-wedding style elopement!
Canyon Creek Cabins
In Granite Falls, Washington, Canyon Creek Cabins are a wonderful location to elope north of Seattle near the Mt. Baker area. There are three cabins as part of the property and you can rent any one, two, or all three. You can have up to 10 people with you when renting all three. Cabins 1 and 3 have two bedrooms, while Cabin 2 is the perfect intimate space for just two guests. These cabins are located in an area called the “gateway to the Cascades,” right near some of the best hiking and views in the state.
All 3 cabins sleep 10 total guests • 5 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms
Amenities:
- Dog-friendly
- Outdoor grill on the patio
- Private outdoor garden
Know that:
- These cabins book out far in advance (like close to a year!)
- Cabins are designed to encourage spending time outdoors; the insides are comfortable and modern, but basic!
Best for:
- A small ceremony with no more than 10 total people, or an intimate post-ceremony dinner gathering
Tye River Cabins
The Tye River Cabins are a collection of 3 social-media-famous A-frame cabins outside of Skykomish, WA. These are very intimate spaces built for up to 4 guests (though I recommend 2, as they are very cozy!). These cabins are located in a very private area, which makes them perfect for an Airbnb elopement.
Each cabin sleeps 4 (main bedrooms and sofa beds) • All located in the Timber Lane Village
Amenities:
- Hot tub
- Fireplace
- Pet-friendly ($50 fee)
- Outdoor fire pit
- Community beach access
Know that:
- Tye House has a waitlist and a cancellation notice list, so you’ll want to get on these to book for your elopement
Best for:
- An intimate ceremony with just you and your partner, or for a slightly bigger dinner gathering with your guests after your elopement
Rainier Area
- Hebe’s Hideout: An A-frame cabin in the woods just a one minute walk from the Nisqually River. Accommodates 2 guests.
- Hera’s Chalet: 1 bed/1 bath cabin with a hot tub and sauna. Open layout with a loft bedroom.
- Heartwood Cabin: newly built a-frame cabin near the Cowlitz River with three patios and a built-in cedar hot tub.
North Cascades/Baker Area
- Après Cabin: modern cabin on the lakefront with a big gas fireplace. 3 bedrooms, mountain views, and ready to accommodate lots of outdoor adventures.
- Wander A-Frame: the cutest retro cabin from 1969, restored to its original glory. Private and surrounded by lots of trees.
Near Seattle/Snoqualmie
- Treeframe Cabin: an a-frame perched 13 feet off the ground, reachable by staircase. A hot tub and big fireplace are just a few amenities at this newly modernized cabin!
- Cabin Creek Lodge: a 10,000 square foot lodge best for a bigger gathering! Rent the whole place for 40 or more guests.
- That PNW Cabin: creekside cozy vibes at this cabin that has recently been restored. Can sleep up to 5.
- Timber Stilts: a mid century modern treehouse cabin, literally on stilts! Can sleep up to 6.
- Riverfront Cabin: an a-frame with an open floor plan and great views. Overlooks the river.
Leavenworth
- The Overlook: a modern built home on a cliff overhang, right over the Wenatchee River with a ton of modern, luxury touches.
- Camp Howard: floor to ceiling windows and a barrel sauna make this a mountain retreat worth the hype!
- Peak Haus: a newly built mountain home nestled into a woodland valley. A large hot tub and outdoor patio to enjoy your morning coffee.
On the Peninsula
- Oceanfront Olympic Cabin: a secluded 2-story cabin with lots of privacy and a covered deck, including 1200 feet of private beach access!
- Woodsy Retreat: just what it sounds like! Great views of the ocean with a rustic but modern coziness.
- Treehouse Eagle’s Perch: overlooks the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Built on a high bluff 20 feet above ground.
Phew, that’s a lot of Airbnb spots to consider for your elopement! I truly believe that renting a place like these to get married is a great, comfortable option whether your guest count is big, small, or not-at-all. Reach out to me here to get started with elopement photography and all the other planning goodies.
