How to Plan an Airbnb Wedding in Asheville, NC
For couples who want a cozy backyard wedding, right here in the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels relaxed, personal and still celebratory, an Airbnb wedding in Asheville might be the right fit. It’s ideal for couples who care less about formality and more about connection, comfort and authenticity. Less pressure, less production but maybe more doggies!
I’ve photographed many backyard-style and Airbnb weddings across the Asheville area, and they always share something special: freedom to design your day on your own terms. This guide is here to help you explore whether an Airbnb wedding might be a good fit for your own celebration.
Images in this post are of a wedding day held at Grand Eagle (linked below in the big list!).
Why Couples Choose Airbnb or Rental Home Weddings in Asheville
Asheville is full of cozy cabins, artsy rentals and beautiful multi-home properties which makes it a perfect place to host a smaller, nontraditional wedding.
Here’s why couples love this option:
Built-in accommodations for you or your guests
A relaxed, lived-in vibe that doesn’t feel like a big production
Budget flexibility (you pay for the space, not the "wedding markup")
Indoor/outdoor spaces for ceremonies, welcome dinners or getting ready
Pet-friendly and family-inclusive setups
Stunning natural backdrops that don’t need much decorating
It’s especially popular with couples who are elopers at heart, even if they’re inviting a few guests.
Things to Consider When Booking an Airbnb Wedding
Not all rental properties allow weddings or events, so a little research goes a long way. Let’s make the planning process smooth:
Get host permission up front - even for small, informal weddings
Look for open layouts with outdoor space for ceremonies or dinners or a lil dancin’
Ask about parking, noise policies, and guest limits
Consider weather - some outdoor setups may need a tent or backup plan
Bring in flexible, experienced vendors who can adapt to a unique space
Factor in bathrooms, accessibility, and neighbor proximity
Pro Tip: Book early! Asheville rentals fill up quickly, during autumn wedding season especially.
Vendor-Friendly Doesn’t Mean Fancy
Just because it’s not a traditional venue doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. In fact I don’t recommend a fully DIY wedding, it’s simply too much work. Blend DIY touches (lean into what you’re creative with) + the right professional team so you can create a wedding day that feels effortless but still special. Think:
A local florist who makes you a seasonal, natural bouquet while you handle the bud vases of fresh cut flowers on the table
A private chef or caterer who can serve up a stunning meal on-site and clean up the mess after (don’t make your guests clean!)
A planner who specializes in small-scale or home-based weddings who can offer expert guidance for this unique approach (such as, you’ll need more toilet paper than is available at check-in!)
A photographer who loves a homey feel, dances under string lights and life’s simple joys - oh, hi!
Airbnb Rentals That Work Well for Weddings in Western North Carolina (the Asheville area)
For the true elopers, room for just 2:
Pisgah Highlands Cabins - For those who are truly eloping (just 2 people!) - charming cabins with killer views.
SKI Quaint Farm Barn Loft - This is such a cute option for an elopement for 2 - a modern charmer!
For the bigger groups, everyone can stay on site together:
Grand Eagle - I’ve been lucky to capture 2 small weddings here so far and I’m always impressed with the space available inside and the killer views!
Canaan Valley - Now a thriving wedding venue, this venue started with micro weddings and has now expanded its services! The feel of being on the farm with a stunning deck for your ceremony.
ModCabins - A set of 3 stylish and modern cabins in the woods. They even have beautiful covered porches for a rainy day back-up! Best for just 2 unless you book all 3 cabins.
Pine Hollow - Multiple outdoor location options for a ceremony and reception! There's gorgeous trees, a lush yard and even little pond.
Cabin Heaven - Cute cabin and some of the best mountain views I've seen from the sprawling lawn!
River's Ridge Lodge - Spacious yet cozy cabin creekside with a killer deck and gazebo. And wedding-hosting experience too!
Laughing Waters - Plenty of mountain views in WNC but we have a few spots for the water lovers too, like this one!
Laurel Falls - Multiple cabins, rustic yet modern. Mountain views and plenty of photo spots!
The Gables - Newly built home with room to sleep 20 and all the amenities needed for a fun family getaway.
Weaver House - More of an event venue than an Air B&B but it is a house-like setting and since it's new - a hidden gem in WNC!
The Poplars at Bearwallow Mountain - Privacy, woodsy forest and mountain views, 2 cabins on site. Dreamy ceremony spot under the trees with a pavilion as a rainy day option!
Stony Woods Estate - After shooting a wedding here in 2021, I had to add it to the list! A remote location surrounded by mountains and plenty of space to get ready and have family stay with you.
Indigo Retreat - If you love a spot by the river, this is it! Beautiful woods, rushing river and open field for photo options!
Pro Tip: Also check out local Inns and Bed & Breakfasts in the area. The owners are often excited to help coordinate the event and they provide great insight. And some have stunning settings, check out the gorgeous tree at Mountain Magnolia Inn for your ceremony backdrop or the stately setting at Albemarle Inn!
Airbnb Wedding Planning Checklist
Confirm the host allows events or gatherings
Check if any of your vendors require something unique or specific
Tour or request detailed photos of the space
Consider guest count and furniture layout
Coordinate vendor access and parking needs
Plan for shade, restrooms and a rain backup
Review noise rules, especially for evening events
Book early — Asheville’s peak seasons fill quickly
