“Love Is In The Air(bnb)”
Colleen & Steve | Simone Plus Photography
Less is more for Colleen and Steve, and having an intimate wedding reception for ten guests at an Airbnb was an easy yes (after the proposal, of course). At the time, they were living in a one-bedroom apartment, wishing they had a huge backyard to host the celebration at home. The idea of booking an Airbnb for the occasion soon dawned on them, and the research process ensued.
“We loved the idea of being on our own schedule, being able to enjoy the house all weekend with our families, and having a full kitchen for a private chef,” says Colleen.
The two made a checklist of all the features they wanted from the Airbnb: gorgeous, spacious, outdoor furniture, a grill, yard games and close to the town hall. They found a house just near the Barnstable Town Hall in Massachusetts that checked all their boxes, and more — it’s located near Steve’s childhood home.
“When we first asked the host about us having our wedding in the backyard, he was totally on board and sent additional pictures of the outdoor space that weren’t shown on the listing. In preparation of our date, he even added lights to the big tree in the backyard, which saved us from having to plan for extra lighting,” Colleen says. Upon entering the Airbnb after their ceremony, the couple found a handwritten message congratulating them on their wedding, alongside snacks and Champagne. A Superhost, indeed.
For catering, Colleen and Steve brought in a private chef (a former chef from one of their favorite restaurants and former “Chopped” contestant) who shucked endless oysters for the guests, cooked delicious food and even cracked some beers with everyone at the end of the night. Tables and chairs were provided by Plymouth Event Rentals, while table runners, napkins, place cards, a cake topper, drink stirrers and signage were found on Etsy. For the table setting, Colleen’s grandmother gifted the two with a set of white and gold china, which will soon be used for future special occasions. Their “something borrowed” — a pair of coupe glasses passed around the bride’s family for generations — was used for the Champagne toast.
Steve’s Airbnb highlights included “having a setting that was completely ours and in our control — music, food, people, etc., as well as the fun extras like sparklers and s’mores,” says Steve. Colleen favored the little moments, like making bouquets, getting ready in the morning with her girls, everyone laughing about Steve’s father paying his taxes while at town hall to “kill two birds with one stone” and having an impromptu first dance when their song played.
The couple’s advice for those who would like to host their own Airbnb wedding: “Stick to the things that are important to you and don’t worry about others’ opinions of having a nontraditional wedding,” Colleen says. “Enjoy all the quality time you get to spend with the people you love by keeping it small!”
The Details
Hair, Makeup and Florals: DIY | Bridal Attire: Lulus | Catering: Private chef | Decor: Tables and chairs from Plymouth Event Rentals; table runner, napkins and name cards from Etsy