Airbnb-Style Wedding

The Ultimate Airbnb DIY Wedding Rental Guide: What to Rent & Cost Estimates

WedBNB

— 7 min read
The Ultimate Airbnb DIY Wedding Rental Guide: What to Rent & Cost Estimates

💍 Planning an Airbnb Wedding? Here’s Everything You Need to Rent (and Why!)

An Airbnb wedding is the perfect blend of creativity, personalization, and budget-friendliness. However, because these properties typically aren’t built for large-scale events, you’ll need to rent (or buy) some key items—like tents, chairs, audio equipment, and decor—to transform your chosen Airbnb into a wedding-ready venue. Whether you’re hosting 20 guests in a cozy cottage or 100+ in a sprawling estate, this in-depth guide highlights everything you’ll likely need, complete with price ranges and pro tips so you can budget effectively.

📋 Complete Rental Checklist

Essential Rentals

  1. Event Infrastructure:
    • Tents
    • Tables
    • Chairs
    • Dance floor
    • Trash cans
  2. Sound & Lighting:
    • Speakers
    • Microphone
    • Uplighting
    • Generator (if needed)
  3. Dining & Bar:
    • Dinnerware
    • Linens
    • Buffet trays
    • Bar setup
  4. Florals & Decor:
    • Bouquets & centerpieces
    • Candles, signage, lounge seating
  5. Other Expenses:
    • Event insurance
    • Cleaning fees
    • Permits

Optional Upgrades

  • Luxury Seating: Lounge furniture, Chiavari chairs, specialty tables
  • Interactive Guest Features: Photo booth, DIY cocktail stations, cigar bar
  • Eco-Friendly Options: Compostable plates, LED lighting
  • Transportation & Parking: Shuttle service, valet parking
  • Custom Lounge Spaces: Cozy sofas, boho rugs, or a fire pit corner
Quick Note: Some Airbnb hosts provide basic furniture—like a few tables or chairs. Always verify with the host or check a wedding-friendly platform like WedBnB to see what’s included in the listing.

🏕️ Event Infrastructure (For Outdoor Weddings)

If you’re relying on that beautiful backyard or vineyard view for your Airbnb wedding, you’ll need infrastructure to protect guests from unexpected weather and ensure everyone’s comfortable.

Item Budget ($) Mid-Range ($$) High-End ($$$)
Party Tent (necessary if no covered space) $500 – $1,500 $2,000 – $3,000 $4,000+
Tables (banquet, round, cocktail) $8 – $12/table $15 – $20/table $25+/table
Chairs (folding or basic) $2 – $6/chair $8 – $12/chair $15+/chair
Dance Floor Rental (optional but fun) $400 – $700 $800 – $1,200 $1,500+
Portable Restrooms (if needed) $150 – $500 $600 – $900 $1,000+
Trash Cans & Disposal (always necessary) $50 – $100 $150 – $200 $250+
  • Necessary vs. Optional:
    • Tent is crucial if you’re relying on the outdoors, especially for large guest counts or unpredictable climates.
    • Dance floor can be skipped if you have a large deck or indoor space to repurpose.
  • Why You Need It: Even if you have stunning weather, it’s wise to plan for shade or rain coverage. Plus, not all Airbnbs have enough tables/chairs for 50+ people.

💡 Pro Tip: If your Airbnb overlooks a scenic lake or mountain view, a clear-top tent with fairy lights can keep everyone protected without obstructing the natural beauty.

🎵 Sound & Lighting Equipment

Proper sound and lighting can make or break the mood. You don’t want muffled vows or guests stumbling in the dark once the sun sets.

Item Budget ($) Mid-Range ($$) High-End ($$$)
Speakers & Microphone $150 – $250 $300 – $500 $600+
PA System (if needed) $250 – $500 $600 – $750 $800+
String Lights & Uplighting $100 – $300 $400 – $600 $700+
Generator (for outdoor power) $300 – $500 $600 – $1,000 $1,200+
  • Necessary vs. Optional:
    • Speakers + mic are nearly essential for toasts and music.
    • String lights aren’t mandatory but add major ambiance and help guests navigate once it’s dark.
  • Why You Need It: Airbnb properties aren’t typically built for large gatherings or multi-hour playlists. If you have a bigger group, a generator might protect you from tripped breakers if you’re running multiple light rigs.

💡 Pro Tip: Create a Spotify playlist and assign a friend to DJ. This is a fraction of the cost of hiring a pro DJ but still yields a personal, curated music experience.

🍽️ Dining & Bar Rentals

Your Airbnb might have a kitchen, but it’s rarely set up for serving 50+ guests at once. That’s where rentals come in.

Item Budget ($) Mid-Range ($$) High-End ($$$)
Dinnerware (plates, cups, flatware, napkins) $1 – $2/guest $3 – $4/guest $5+/guest
Linens & Tablecloths $10 – $15/table $20 – $30/table $40+/table
Buffet Serving Trays & Chafing Dishes (if not provided) $30 – $75 $100 – $150 $200+
Bar Setup (if DIYing) $50 – $150 $200 – $300 $400+
Bartenders (if hiring) $20 – $30/hr + tips $40 – $50/hr + tips $60+/hr + tips
Ice Coolers & Scoops $20 – $50 $60 – $100 $150+
  • Necessary vs. Optional:
    • Dinnerware is a must unless your Airbnb host provides enough for everyone (highly unlikely for big weddings).
    • Bartender might be optional if you do a self-serve station, but for bigger parties, a professional ensures no underpouring or overpouring fiascos.
  • Why You Need It: You’ll want cohesive table settings for a polished look. If you skip professional rentals, at least consider disposable but elegant options to keep it consistent.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re serving buffet-style, confirm if your caterer brings chafing dishes or if you need to rent them separately. Some caters do full-service, others provide only food.

💐 Florals & Decor

Transforming an Airbnb from “cozy weekend rental” to “wedding wonderland” often hinges on décor—both big statement pieces and small finishing touches.

Item Budget ($) Mid-Range ($$) High-End ($$$)
DIY Bouquets & Centerpieces $200 – $400 $500 – $1,000 $1,500+
Candles, Mason Jars, Vases $50 – $100 $150 – $250 $300+
Ceremony Arch (optional) $100 – $250 $300 – $500 $700+
Custom Signage & Table Numbers $50 – $100 $120 – $150 $200+
Lounge Area Seating (sofa sets) $100 – $300 $400 – $700 $800+
  • Necessary vs. Optional:
    • Basic florals (bouquets, centerpieces) are essential for any wedding vibe.
    • A lounge area with special furniture is a nice bonus if your venue lacks cozy corners.
  • Why You Need It: Ambiance is everything. Florals and dĂŠcor elevate a rental home into a romantic wedding space.

💡 Pro Tip: Bulk flower websites like FiftyFlowers.com let you pick color schemes and get fresh blooms at wholesale prices—perfect for a budget but polished look.

🔎 Other Expenses to Consider

Item Budget ($) Mid-Range ($$) High-End ($$$)
Event Insurance (often mandatory) $150 – $250 $300 – $350 $400+
Cleaning Fees (Airbnb or vendor) $100 – $250 $300 – $500 $600+
Permit Fees (if needed) $50 – $150 $200 – $500 $600+
Refundable Event Deposit (if host requires) $200 – $500 $600 – $1,000 $1,500+

Heads-Up: Some Wedbnb hosts require a refundable event deposit. Always clarify event policies—or let WedBnB handle it—so there are no day-of surprises.

🛠 How to Arrange & Track All These Rentals

  1. Master Spreadsheet: List each category (infrastructure, sound, dining, etc.) with vendor info, deposit amounts, and due dates.
  2. Consolidate Vendors: If one rental company can supply multiple items (tent, chairs, linens), you’ll save on delivery fees.
  3. Delivery Logistics: Check if the property allows early drop-off. Some Airbnbs only let you in at 3 PM, which might be too late for same-day setup.
  4. Day-of Setup Crew: Even with pro delivery, designate a friend or hire a coordinator to ensure everything’s placed where it needs to be.

💡 Pro Tip: Platforms like WedBnB simplify these conversations by confirming you’re booking a property that’s 100% wedding-friendly, meaning your rentals won’t be a surprise to the host.

💰 How Much Should You Budget for Rentals?

Wedding Style Estimated Total Rental Cost
Small (20-40 Guests, Minimal Rentals) $3,000 – $6,000 (Mostly basics + minimal decor)
Mid-Size (50-75 Guests, Moderate Rentals) $7,000 – $12,000 (Tent, furniture, standard AV)
Large (100+ Guests, Full Rentals) $12,000 – $20,000+ (Comprehensive setup, multiple zones)

Regional Variations: Coastal or urban areas might see +20% over these estimates, while more rural locations could be cheaper. High-end design choices (like premium lounge furniture or elaborate light displays) can also tip you into the $20k+ range for rentals.

✨ Commonly Overlooked Items

1. Heating/Cooling Equipment: Outdoor heaters or fans can save guests from shivering or sweating.
2. Extension Cords & Surge Protectors: For lighting, sound equipment, or a coffee station.
3. Kids’ Activities: If you expect many children, renting a bounce house or setting a separate kids’ area can keep them occupied.
4. Decorative Extras: Easels for welcome signs, parasols for a sunny ceremony, or a cozy fire pit for late-night s’mores.
5. Umbrellas: Even if you have a tent, a few extra umbrellas for guest arrival is a thoughtful touch.

🎉 Extended Example: A Real-Life Airbnb Wedding Rental Story

Context: A couple found a no-fee property (up to 100 guests outdoors in June). Here’s how they handled rentals:

  • They Rented:
    • Party Tent, Tables, Chairs: Local party rental (delivery & setup included)
    • Speakers & Mic: Audio rental (curated Spotify playlist instead of a DJ)
    • Lighting: Uplights & string lights from an online vendor
  • They Bought:
    • Florals: DIY bouquets & centerpieces from FiftyFlowers.com
    • Tableware: Disposable but elegant plates, cups, flatware, napkins from WebstaurantStore.com
    • Decor: Candles, mason jars, signage from Etsy
    • Linens: Tablecloths from TableclothsFactory.com
    • Misc.: Trash cans, ice coolers, scoops from Walmart
  • Food: Caterer provided trays; the couple did a buffet.
  • DIY Bar: They purchased liquor from a wholesaler, hired two bartenders at $20/hour + tips, and set up their own bar station.
  • Event Insurance: ~$150

They ended up saving thousands compared to a traditional hotel or banquet venue—and got two full days in the property for a wedding celebration that felt intimate, homey, and unique.

🔎 Wrapping It Up: Making Your Airbnb Wedding Seamless

An Airbnb wedding grants you total control, flexibility, and personalization—but it also requires a bit more logistical legwork on rentals. Know what you need (and what’s nice to have), set realistic budget ranges, and confirm everything early to avoid last-minute scrambling.

5 Final Tips

  1. List It All: Distinguish between necessary vs. optional items so you don’t overspend.
  2. Book Early: Popular rental companies can be fully booked during peak wedding season.
  3. Ask About Delivery: Check if the Airbnb host allows early drop-off or next-day pick-up.
  4. Stay Organized: A digital or paper planner helps track each vendor’s cost, deposit, and contact info.
  5. Leverage WedBnB: WedBnB offers wedding-approved Airbnb listings that clarify event-friendly properties—so you can focus on the fun rather than host negotiations.

Remember: You’re not just renting items; you’re building the foundation for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. With the right setup, your Airbnb wedding can feel as seamless as a hotel venue—yet far more personal and memorable. Here’s to an unforgettable event that reflects your style, saves you money, and keeps your guests raving about the “best wedding weekend ever!”

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