Top 5 Airbnbs to Get Ready in for Your Santa Barbara Wedding

As a California wedding photographer, I have had the privilege of capturing countless moments of love and joy throughout the years. One of the key elements that contribute to the overall success of a wedding is the atmosphere in which the couple gets ready before their big day. In recent times, there has been a growing trend of utilizing Airbnb accommodations as unique and picturesque spaces for wedding preparations. In this blog post, we'll explore the incredible potential of using an Airbnb to get ready for your Santa Barbara wedding, taking advantage of its charm, convenience, and personal touch. Let's start with looking at my favorite options!

Check out my favorite Santa Barbara venues here!

Serene & cozy retreat, easy walk to the beach!

From the owner:

"A warm and welcoming home located in a quiet family neighborhood close to the beach, public transportation, parks, art & culture, shopping and downtown. Our place is an artists dream with artwork and collectables throughout, comfortable beds, and a private backyard that features BBQs, outdoor dining areas, lounge chairs and a large lap pool and spa. If you're a couple, solo adventurer, business traveler, or family we'd love to welcome you to our home!

Our place, "Klaus House," features a large master bedroom & attached bathroom, and a large desk perfect for working at. There's an additional front bedroom, and non-attached bathroom with shower/jet-tub combo. We also have a blow-up air mattress if needed, as well as Lovesac sofas in the living room that we purchased with guests comfort in mind should you have the need for an extra place to sleep.

The home includes any amenity that you could need while away. The kitchen is fully stocked with cooking/baking tools, there is a washer & dryer, ironing supplies, a dedicated workspace, shampoo and conditioner, board games, pool/beach towels, beach chairs and more.

This house holds a special place in our hearts as it was our childhood home. Our father was an artist/art-collector, world-traveler, and immigrant, therefore the house is full of his art collections, books, and invaluable artifacts from around the world. Guests are welcome to enjoy the books and browse his collections during their stay."

Check out Seree & coze retreat on Airbnb

Luxurious 2 Bedroom Downtown

From the owner:

"Our 2 bedroom home is located just a few blocks away from Paseo Nuevo Mall downtown. Located in a residential neighborhood this area is relatively peaceful and perfect for 4 or less people looking to relax and walk around Santa Barbara!"

This two bedroom home comes with every amenity you need! With clean lines and plenty of light this home is open and inviting, and would be great for getting ready photos! With a short and easy walk to the heart of Downtown, start your big day with a Santa Barbara brunch!

Check out Luxurious 2 Bedroom Downtown on Airbnb

Gorgeous Riviera Studio with VIEWS

From the owner:

"Relax & unwind on Santa Barbara's serene Riviera from your own private deck & gardens of the studio, take in the view of the city, ocean & islands beyond...A 7 minute drive to downtown, beaches, restaurants & cafes or Montecito's Lower Village. BLISS...

Minutes from all that Santa Barbara & Montecito have to offer yet in a location on the Riviera that's central to everything and is fabulously quiet, offers total relaxation and panoramic ocean, island & city views.

An oasis of tranquility the Studio has an inviting atmosphere with it's all white, chic interior that is clean, crisp & well appointed. A queen size bed, high quality linens & down duvet and extra pillows. Bathroom features a dual headed shower, plush new towels, a ceramic hair dryer and bath products. The kitchenette is stocked with french press, electric kettle coffee, tea and more. Outdoor gas grill to BBQ also in your private garden.

Equipped with high speed WiFi, a 50" HiDef flatscreen TV with Amazon Prime & Netflix, Alexa Echo dot to hear music (Apple music & 100+ Pandora premium stations)

This is an ultra quiet neighborhood where you'll wake up to birds chirping and the Pacific Ocean in full view.

A two person quilted top hammock is a relaxing space in your private garden to watch the hummingbirds, star gaze or simply take a nap & snuggle."

Check out Gorgeous Riviera Studio with VIEWS on Airbnb

Hendry's Beach Hilltop Hideaway

From the owner:

"Mid-century modern meets coastal charm in this sweet Santa Barbara house. Well-appointed with newer appliances and plush furnishings, this is the perfect place for relaxing and reviving your spirit at the coast

Set in one of the quietest areas in town, the backyard features ample seating and a picturesque backdrop. Dine or lounge outdoors while you enjoy the beautiful sunsets and chirping birds. This property is single level and has a fenced-in backyard, and is very child and infant friendly.

Our hilltop hideaway has three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, an eat-in kitchen, dining for six, and living areas to stretch out after a day in the sun.

If the beach is on your must-do list, Hendry’s Beach is less than a mile away. Lower State Street, The Funk Zone and Fisherman's Warf are quickly accessed via Cliff Drive. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city and beach during the day, then retreat to quiet serenity."

Check out Hendry's Beach Hilltop Hideaway on Airbnb

Charming Spanish - Best loc. Funk Z, Beach, Dwntwn

From the owner:

"If you are as particular as I am about where you stay, maybe this is the place for you.What makes it special are location, natural light, style, cleanliness and luxurious linens and amenities. I take great care to provide you with the cleanest, softest white linens so that you know you are no hidden stains.

The house also provides a high end kitchen, comfortable beds, and every amenity you might need including a fully stocked kitchen, bathroom, beach chairs, towels, toys and even flip flops.If you prefer the services and style of boutique hotels with unique, sophisticated decor over the standard options, this may be your choice.

Style is like the Biltmore meets the Kimpton hotel group.Inspired by some places I have visited (Amangiri, The Boathouse at Mankas), my goal was to offer a place that I would be happy to stay in...A place that is drenched with natural light and good energy, a space that is sophisticated but simple, modern but warm, very clean and very comfortable, and most importantly... inspiring.

Built by the renowned Spanish Style architect Alex D'Alfonso, this home retains all of the charm that makes it quintessentially Santa Barbara, but was tastefully upgraded and remodeled with modern furnishings and amenities to make it bright, functional and comfortable.

The home is well appointed and includes a gourmet kitchen, heated tile bathroom floors, soft luxurious bedding and down comforters, new beds, Apple TV, Netflix, Wifi, and high-end appliances including washer and dryer. No need to bring hair dryer, iron, first aid, etc. All stocked. :-)"

Check out Charming Spanish - Best Ioc Funk Z, Beach, Dwntwn on Airbnb

Discovering Santa Barbara's Charm

Santa Barbara, with its stunning coastal views, scenic landscapes, and Spanish-inspired architecture, is a dream location for any couple seeking a memorable wedding. Airbnb offers a wide array of properties that showcase the city's unique charm, allowing you to immerse yourself in its beauty from the moment you wake up. Whether it's a cozy beachfront cottage, a luxurious villa nestled in the hills, or a historic Spanish-style home, Santa Barbara's Airbnb options provide a picturesque backdrop for your wedding preparations.

A Personal Touch

Unlike a traditional hotel room, an Airbnb allows you to infuse your personal touch and style into the space where you'll be getting ready. From the decor to the layout, you can choose an Airbnb that aligns with your aesthetic preferences and reflects your unique personality as a couple. This personalization can make a significant difference in the atmosphere and emotions captured by your wedding photographer. It sets the stage for authentic and intimate moments, creating a seamless transition from the getting ready phase to the ceremony itself.

Convenience and Comfort

Getting ready for your wedding day should be a stress-free experience, and Airbnb can help you achieve just that. These accommodations often provide ample space for the entire bridal party, family members, and friends to comfortably get ready together. With fully equipped kitchens, living areas, and multiple bedrooms, you have the freedom to move around, relax, and enjoy the company of your loved ones in a private setting. This convenience allows you to create beautiful memories and fosters a relaxed and joyful atmosphere that shines through in your wedding photographs.

Versatile Photography Opportunities

An Airbnb can be a treasure trove of photography opportunities. From natural lighting streaming through large windows to unique architectural elements and breathtaking outdoor spaces, these accommodations offer a multitude of backdrops for capturing stunning images. Santa Barbara's diverse landscapes, such as pristine beaches, enchanting gardens, and rolling vineyards, are often just a short distance away from your Airbnb, providing even more versatility for your wedding photography.

Embracing Local Vendors

By opting for an Airbnb for your wedding preparations, you have the opportunity to support local businesses and vendors in Santa Barbara. From hiring local caterers for breakfast or brunch to bringing in a hair and makeup artist who knows the area's climate and style preferences, you can engage with the vibrant local community and ensure an authentic Santa Barbara experience. This collaborative spirit contributes to the overall success of your wedding day while fostering a sense of community support.

Choosing an Airbnb for your Santa Barbara wedding allows you to enhance the entire experience, from the moment you wake up to the grand entrance at your ceremony. The charm, convenience, and personal touch offered by these accommodations provide a unique backdrop for your wedding preparations and result in truly memorable photographs. By immersing yourself in the local culture and supporting local vendors, you'll create an authentic Santa Barbara wedding experience that will be forever cherished.

Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of love, and the choice of where you get ready can significantly impact the overall atmosphere and emotions captured by your wedding photographer. So, go ahead and embrace the magic!

Let's connect to plan your Santa Barbara Wedding!