Colorado Airbnb Elopement Guide: Tips, Costs & Photo Ideas

How To Plan A Airbnb Elopement

I’ve been helping couples with Colorado elopements since 2018, and one trend keeps growing every year: couples choosing a Colorado Airbnb elopement over a traditional venue. Couples are renting gorgeous vacation homes tucked into our mountain towns and using them for everything, not just a place to sleep.

Airbnb doesn’t just mean a house, either. You can rent campers, log cabins, and ski-in-ski-out chalets, so if the traditional venue doesn’t call to you and you want a mountain backdrop instead, there’s a real option waiting.

From behind the camera, an Airbnb beats a generic hotel room every time for getting-ready photos. The place feels lived-in and personal instead of staged, and that shows up in the photos. You can even bring in a private chef and create your own version of room service. There’s a lot of ways to make an Airbnb elopement feel like more than just lodging, and that’s what this guide is for!

If you’re still weighing whether eloping is right for you at all, my guide on the top reasons to elope lays out an honest case for it.

Can You Get Married At An Airbnb?

Certainly! Depending on the host’s setup, eloping at your Airbnb is entirely feasible! There are several approaches you can take, but the most Yes, if the host allows it. Most listings aren’t zoned for events, so get permission in writing first. Once you have it, you can hold your full ceremony there, part of your reception, or just your photos.

There are a few different ways couples make this work:

1. Host part of your reception at the Airbnb, before or after the ceremony happens somewhere else.
2. Go all in and hold the entire elopement there, backyard vows and all. Just scope out the exact spot when you’re browsing listings and run it by your photographer.
3. Or keep it simple and just get your photos there. Nobody said you need a crowd to capture the real moment.

Do All Airbnbs Allow Events?

No. Most Airbnb listings ban events by default. Look for the “Suitable for events” house rule, or check the same address on VRBO, which has an actual events-allowed filter that Airbnb doesn’t offer.

You don’t have to throw a full event to get beautiful, fun moments out of your Airbnb elopement. There are plenty of other activities and photo opportunities worth building into your day even without a formal gathering, which I’ll walk through below. Before that, scout the property for getting-ready spots, or just for a romantic honeymoon stay afterward.

What Are Some Tips For Planning An Airbnb Elopement?

Pick Your Airbnb Venue First

Choose your Colorado elopement location before you book the Airbnb, not the other way around. It’s much easier to find lodging around a location you’ve already picked than to find adventure spots around a random Airbnb. Reverse-engineer it: pick where you want to adventure first, then find the property. I’ve had couples book airbnb’s way out in the middle of nowhere because it looked cool but wasn’t close to their actual location and they had to pivot afterwards.

Look For An Event-Friendly Airbnb

If you’re planning a ceremony or reception, make sure the property actually allows it. Airbnb doesn’t offer a clean way to filter for wedding-friendly listings, but VRBO has an “events allowed” filter you can use, and you can cross-reference the same property on Airbnb afterward. You can also check Airbnb’s own rules on parties and events directly. Don’t assume a spot is fair game just because it looks right. Violating your rental agreement can cost you your security deposit, and the last thing you want is your officiant or photographer turned away on your wedding day.

Communicate everything with the host: guest count, the vibe of your day, and any activities you’ve got planned, from dinner under the stars to a hot tub wind-down after the ceremony. If a listing doesn’t mention being event-friendly but feels right, message the host directly. A lot of owners haven’t considered hosting something like an elopement, and once they hear a low-key, respectful plan, they’re often on board. Just get that green light in writing before you build your whole day around it.

If you stumble across a spot that feels like the one but doesn’t mention being event-friendly, don’t write it off just yet. Reach out to the host directly through Airbnb. A lot of the time, owners just haven’t considered hosting intimate celebrations like elopements—and once they hear your vision (especially if you keep it low-key and respectful), they might be totally down.

Map Out Photo Spots Around Your Airbnb

This may seem backward, but I recommend choosing an Airbnb based on its photo opportunities before booking, especially if you are not familiar with the area. Navigating mountain roads can take longer than expected if you’re just relying on a map and mileage. You don’t want to choose a place that requires a long drive from your wedding location, as you don’t want to spend your special day stuck in a car! Focusing on venues with beautiful photo backdrops nearby ensures you can enjoy more of your celebration time while capturing stunning memories. And feel free to send your listing to your photographer so they can peep the place beforehand!

Know The Local Airbnb Rules And Jurisdictions

Some Airbnbs enforce strict noise policies or limited parking. Finding out you can’t be outside past a certain hour is a bad surprise if you’d planned a campfire gathering. Some properties, like several in Breckenridge, fall under local county rules that cap how many days a year a host can rent for events — you can check current regulations directly on the Town of Breckenridge’s official site.

In case of limited parking, consider reaching out to the owner to inquire about nearby parking options or the possibility of arranging a valet service for your guests. I’ve had couples hire local shuttle services that make it super easy for their guests to get around.

Consider Renting

In general, most Airbnbs come equipped with basic tableware and cookware. However, if you’re aiming for a more sophisticated aesthetic, you have the option to rent items to elevate the ambiance. This is one of the advantages of Airbnb elopements; you can allocate your budget towards enhancing the details since you’re not catering to a large guest list!

Consider renting special chairs for the dinner table, tents, outdoor furniture, and heaters, among other possibilities. Personalizing the day in these ways adds a touch of fun for both you and your guests, and it also enhances the visual appeal of your photos.

Stay In And Hire Out

This idea is definitely one of my favorites because there’s nothing quite like being served fantastic food while enjoying laughter and conversation with friends, all without having to venture out to a restaurant. Hiring a private chef or caterer takes away all the worries, and they even handle the cleanup. After all, who wants to be doing dishes on their wedding day? Just ensure that whoever you hire brings along their own cookware since most Airbnbs only provide the basics.

For a more casual or late-night affair, consider bringing in a food truck! Street tacos or pizza can add a fun and tasty touch that your guests will absolutely adore.

Think Of Your Airbnb As Your Own Private Hotel

A bigger Airbnb keeps everyone close for an intimate celebration. It costs more, but it’s a real gesture toward guests who traveled to be there, and having everyone on-site makes for better shared moments with family. Some Airbnbs even offer their own elopement packages. Some of my favorite upscale Airbnb’s are out in the San Juan mountains and Telluride.

Check out my San Juan mountains and Telluride elopement guides.

Come Early And Enjoy The Local Scenery

Don’t arrive on your wedding day. Get there a few days early to settle in, get familiar with the property, and plan out where each part of your day will happen. This also gives you time to assess the space with your photos in mind. Some of these are vacation rentals with decor that doesn’t match your vibe. If it’s removable, temporarily take it down and put it back before you leave (a quick photo of where it was helps).

Look For Cool Airbnb Features

AirBnB’s are going to give you more unique and fun features than those boring hotels. Some of these features will go a long way in elevating your AirBnB elopement experience, especially if you’re ready to kick back or host a party.

Some of my favorite AirBnB elopement features to look for:

• Hot Tubs: Most Airbnbs skip the pool but have a hot tub instead, which is especially good for winter elopements.
• Spacious Decks: A big deck makes hosting friends and family easier and more comfortable.
• Accessibility: Look for properties that don’t require special vehicle clearance, so arrival and departure stay simple for you and your guests.
• Well-Equipped Kitchens: A great kitchen matters, but don’t overlook an outdoor BBQ either, especially in summer.
• Skylights: Great for stargazing since the mountains have less light pollution, and they make for interesting light in your photos.
• Wildlife: Some properties near Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes sit close to elk herds that roam the area.
• Private Bodies of Water: If you can find a property that has its own water source, then you have hit the jackpot! These places are gold because you can set up a canoe or paddle boards, and they make a great ceremony spot too! Check out Alta Lakes near Telluride!

What Are The Benefits Of An Airbnb Elopement?

Privacy, a lower price than a rented venue, and one property that covers your getting-ready, your ceremony, and your after-party. You pick a place that already feels like you, instead of a ballroom that feels like everyone’s wedding.

Personal And Crafted For You

You’re not just booking a place to sleep, you’re building a Colorado Airbnb elopement that’s entirely yours. These spaces give you real privacy and intimacy, letting you slow down with just your partner and a few close people. Whether it’s a cozy cabin with a deck view or an A-frame with great mountain light, you pick a spot that actually feels like you.

Secluded And Meaningful

Eloping at an Airbnb means picking a space that feels like you, whether that’s a cozy cabin, a sleek mountain loft, or a rustic lodge. The backdrops range from front-porch mountain views to golden meadows to wraparound decks that double as a ceremony spot. Many of these homes already come styled with fire pits and string lights. You’re not just booking a venue, you’re building a full experience: get ready with your people, say your vows under the trees, soak in the hot tub after dark, and wake up slow with coffee on the porch.

Cheaper Than Venues

Airbnb rentals often cost less than a traditional venue, and one property covers your ceremony spot, first look, and lodging all at once. That means less spent on transport and hotels, and more available for photos, adventure, or a private chef. For a full breakdown of what a Colorado elopement actually costs, check out my Colorado elopement cost guide.

What Are The Best Photo Ideas For An Airbnb Elopement?

Use the whole property. Get ready there, write your vows on the porch, sign your marriage license at the kitchen table, and let the house’s own details fill out your wedding album.

Use Your Airbnb For Getting-Ready Photos

You might as well take advantage of the spot you’re dropping money on, right? I love going early and capturing couples get ready for their big day, especially since this is such a fun elopement activity to include in each day. A lot of these moments leading up to your wedding ceremony can be just as memorable as the ceremony itself and make for a great starter in your album upon delivery day. Integrating the Airbnb’s surroundings into your pre-wedding photos adds personalized charm to your wedding album, elevating the memories to a more intimate and meaningful level.

Write Vows At Your Airbnb

Many of my couples write their vows in private, but having them documented with photos at your Airbnb is a great way to tell your story in your album. Many Airbnbs will have beautiful settings where you can cozy up and create an intimate atmosphere to write your vows. Also, depending on the location of the Airbnb elopement, you may find yourself surrounded by beautiful scenery or unique surroundings that can inspire heartfelt and meaningful vows. Many Airbnbs can certainly spark some inspiration!

Have A First Look At Your Airbnb

First looks are always so fun, and Airbnbs elopements give you a different and unique perspective from other backdrops. Each Airbnb is set in a different backdrop, with different features and lighting, so it’s a good opportunity to take advantage of these things and have your first look at your Airbnb. I always suggest looking for the coolest and most unique opportunities that make your photos pop!

Family Photos At The Airbnb

I think this is such an underrated photo opportunity because family photos seem to be the last thing on people’s minds by the end of the day, but shooting them in a beautiful backdrop at an Airbnb can really get people excited! Family photos really pop a lot more when they’re in a beautiful backdrop, and Airbnbs give you all the vibes for this!

If you’re planning to include family in your day more broadly, my guide on eloping with your family covers how other couples have made that work

Sign Your Paperwork At Your Airbnb

You can self-solemnize your marriage in Colorado, but you still need to sign paperwork. An Airbnb is a great place to handle that, especially if you want pets or a few people there for it. Set up near a standout feature inside, or do it outside with the mountains behind you, either way it’s a good photo opportunity.

Have Reception Photos At Your Airbnb

Airbnb elopements offer wonderful venues for hosting affordable and beautiful receptions and backyard weddings. These spaces provide stunning backdrops, with their open yet private settings creating an intimate atmosphere for your celebration. Whether you’re exchanging vows in a scenic backyard or an epic Airbnb location, take the time to explore the outdoor settings showcased in the listing photos before booking. Utilizing these breathtaking backdrops can add a unique and memorable touch to your wedding album, ensuring your special day is captured in all its natural beauty.

Take Detail Shots Around The Airbnb

Usually Airbnbs have really cool ornaments around the house to tie into the surrounding area and these are cool features to use for detail shots. Details are always an important part of every album and sometimes they can be bland if you don’t have much to work with, but luckely Airbnb’s generally have lots of cool trinkets and other items to use your imagination with!

Take Photos With Your Dogs

Want your dog part of the day without having them there the whole time? Cap off the elopement back at the Airbnb with sunset photos together, so you get the adventure and the snuggly pup moment. Just confirm the property is actually dog-friendly first, since policies range from no problem to an extra fee to a flat no. My guide on eloping with your dog in Colorado covers what to check before you book, including the counties where the classic paw-print signature on your marriage license is and isn’t accepted.

What Are The Hidden Costs Of An Airbnb Elopement?

Event fees, bigger cleaning fees, and a total that’s higher than the number you saw first. Budget extra for a popular town, and don’t cut photography or video to cover it.

Airbnb elopements often run cheaper than a traditional wedding, but a few costs tend to show up after you’ve already booked:

1. Prime Location Upcharge: Popular mountain towns carry a premium. Look at smaller towns nearby if you’re open to a slightly longer drive.
2. Cleaning Fees: Expect a bigger cleaning fee when you’re using the space for an event. It’s worth messaging the host to see if it’s negotiable.
3. Catering, Food, And Beverage: A food truck, caterer, or simple BBQ all add up fast, especially with a bigger group.
4. Photography And Videography: Unless you’re on an all-inclusive Colorado elopement package, this is likely your biggest line item.
5. Decorations: Even a small elopement adds up once you factor in chairs, tables, and lighting for a specific look.
6. Unexpected Costs: Something always comes up. Keep a buffer for it.

For real numbers on what these add up to, my Colorado elopement cost guide breaks down actual price ranges by category.

How Do I Choose The Right Colorado Airbnb For My Elopement?

Pick your ceremony location first, then find an Airbnb near it. Booking the property before the location usually backfires, either a long drive on your wedding day or fewer photo spots than you hoped.

Every couple I’ve worked with who went the Airbnb route has loved it. There’s a specific feeling to having a whole property to yourselves, one you can even come back to on an anniversary.

There’s no shortage of epic spots for Airbnb elopements in Colorado. If you’re overwhelmed scrolling listings, reach out. I know the best places to elope in Colorado and I’ve likely shot at an Airbnb in the area you’re considering.

Take a look at my all-inclusive Colorado elopement packages. They cover timing, pricing, and planning, and I’ll help you find the right Airbnb as part of that process.

Best Colorado Towns For An Airbnb Elopement

Every mountain town has a different personality, and the Airbnb options reflect that. Here’s a quick rundown of where I shoot most.

• Telluride has some of the most dramatic backdrops in the state, plus a solid inventory of luxury ski chalets and cabins. My Telluride elopement guide breaks down the logistics, from hidden ceremony spots to the best months for light.
• Breckenridge is easy to reach from Denver and has a huge Airbnb market. My Breckenridge elopement guide covers everything from quiet trails to ceremony spots that don’t require a long hike.
• Ouray is nicknamed the Switzerland of America for a reason. It’s smaller and quieter than the big ski towns and has some awesome places to stay, and my Ouray elopement guide has my favorite spots around town.

If you’re still in the early research phase, my how to elope in Colorado guide walks through the whole process from permits to timing. And if you want a sense of how Colorado stacks up against a national park alternative, my Yosemite elopement guide covers that side of things.

Airbnb Elopement FAQ