As a California-based wedding photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing countless love stories against the backdrop of some truly stunning locations. While every wedding is unique and beautiful in its own way, I've noticed a growing trend that has added a new layer of charm and intimacy to the wedding day experience: getting ready in an Airbnb. In this blog, I'll share why I believe considering an Airbnb for your wedding day preparations can be an excellent choice. First, let's take a look at my top picks in Santa Clarita.
Also check out my favorite venues in Santa Clarita!
From the owner:
Diamond View Summit is a very private 3800 sf estate, perched on the top of a 10-acre plateau, with 360-degree views of hundreds of square miles of scenic mountains. You might feel like you are in Joshua Tree National Park or rural Wyoming, but you’re actually only 30 miles from Hollywood!
The estate boasts a massive gourmet kitchen, formal dining room, and billiards room. The living room has 22-foot high ceilings and three TVs for “sports book” style viewing. The crown jewel of DVS is the massive 10,000 sf patio area; for epic sunsets, starry nights, relaxing by the firepit, and unmatched outdoor privacy. If you want to go big, DVS is also perfect and available (for additional fees) for weddings, quinceaneras, private parties, filming, and other special events; all including on-site parking for hundreds of vehicles.
You can hike, mountain bike, and ride horses directly from the property, or go to nearby Vasquez Rocks or hundreds of amazing mountain destinations throughout the Angeles National Forest; including Texas Canyon Rock Climbing Area, and Rowher Flat, a massive state park set aside for off-road motorsports! Be sure to visit Agua Dulce Vineyards for wine tasting, Six Flags Magic Mountain, and Lake Castaic; and enjoy hundreds of restaurants and family-friendly activities in the nearby communities of Valencia and the City of Santa Clarita. Universal Studios, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and all of the world-class amenities of Los Angeles are less than an hour’s drive!
Each of the five bedrooms sleeps at least two people. One of them has two couches that are larger than twin beds, and another has a full size sofa bed. There are also oversized couches in the living areas, and plenty of rooms for inflatable beds. One bedroom is a walk-through to another, but both have full privacy doors. We are ok with guests bringing air mattresses for more sleeping space.
From the owner:
This is a studio style guest house located in my backyard paradise and includes private entry and private en suite bathroom. Just outside your door is the backyard with dining area, vegetable garden, cabana, massage chair, jacuzzi, and pool all open to enjoy! Smoking allowed outdoors only. 420 friendly.
In the studio, you'll find a comfortable queen size bed, full bathroom, kitchenette, ample closet space, a flat screen TV, Netflix, and free wi-fi. Set with AC, heat, and ceiling fan for maximum comfort.
Safe and convenient parking. Within 1 mile to a bus station, grocery store, and Balboa Lake park. Quiet and friendly neighborhood, and only a couple of miles away from Ventura Blvd with numerous restaurants/bars/shops. 10 minute drive to hiking in beautiful Topanga Canyon.
Convenient access to major freeways- 405 and 101. Easy access to Magic Mountain, The Getty Museum, Universal Studios, and Van Nuys Airport.
From the owner:
Experience minimalist living in a Tiny House on wheels with a Farm Charm. It is 220 Sq ft of living space with a full bath, kitchen, living room and bedroom all on the same floor. It is adjacent to our single family home with a fence for privacy. There is a shared entrance and shared parking with other Airbnb guests.
It is located 15 minutes from Six Flags Magic Mountain! The Tiny House offers several amenities, appliances, furniture, and is in close proximity to shopping centers, parks, and amazing running trails! The hosts have designed a perfect space for single travelers or couples.
From the owner:
5 bedroom home with 2 1/2 bathrooms. 2 story house with stairs. 3 Queen platform beds and one king bed upstairs and two pull out mattresses for big groups. Two living rooms/ couches downstairs. Outdoor pool, heater for pool is currently off limits. Otherwise pool is clean and free to use. Pool service is every Tuesday so if you’re staying during this time the pool maintenance man will be arriving Tuesday’s, usually early.
The BBQ area outside is gas but currently off limits to use. And the fireplace inside house is also gas and off limits to use during the time also. Although if you are cold there’s plenty of blankets, and a central heater system. There’s a designated kids play room downstairs in the back room near the garage. Lots of on property parking since the driveway is big. Also, the garage will fit a car.
Clean towels provided in each bathroom and washer and dryer laundry room is upstairs for your use. Kitchen is a gas stove with a built in wall double oven system and built in wall microwave. Everything is new and in good condition(: there’s also a coffee bar for those that love their morning coffee! Utensils/ some cookware is provided but if you have specific plans to cook please provide your own ingredients / recipes. There are plenty of close by grocery stores near the home within a 5 minute radius.
There is no cable in the house. Just smart app tv options. Login for Netflix, Hulu, etc will be provided in a binder at the house for your knowledge along with the WiFi info. There is also an office desk/ space upstairs incase you want to get some work done with a small selection of pens/ paper to help you.
From the owner:
The Charming Cedar Guest Suite is located 30 minutes or 12 miles from Six Flags Magic Mountain! The Private studio offers a comfy bed, workstation, and a private full bath. There is no kitchen but does offer coffee. It is in close proximity to shopping centers, parks, and amazing running trails. We have designed a perfect space for single travelers and couples.
From the owner:
Come enjoy your stay in the hills with this modern, unique, and spacious home! Take a look out into the beautiful surrounding views and enjoy the hot-tub/pool with amazing vibes! Enjoy the board games for those fun competitive family nights! Kitchen is very spacious, perfect for a nice hang out or family dinner! Come and enjoy this unique home with friends and family! (17 MIN. FROM SIX FLAGS!!!!)
From the owner:
Mid century inspired architecture with private hot tub, Walking distance to Magic Mountain. Community offers 3 large scale pools, hot tubs and luxury pool cabanas. neighborhood parks and playgrounds 5 minute walk away.
Home features 3 spacious rooms including a primary bedroom with attached ensuite bathroom. Yard includes private hot tub, gas fire pit, out door dining and BBQ. FREE EV charging provided in the garage ! Home was built in 2021 so everything is new! Including the furnishings.
Modern construction home with an open floor plan living area downstairs with a half bathroom. The kitchen is brand new with sparkling clean appliances. Refrigerator has an ice maker. Enjoy coffee on us with your own Nespresso machine. Spacious primary bedroom with en-suite bathroom and king size memory foam bed. Two additional bedrooms both with queen memory foam beds. Laundry and guest bathroom with tub next to guest bedrooms. There is a dedicated workspace area in one of the upstairs bedrooms.
Enjoy the private fully fenced yard that features your own private hot tub that is always heated, grass area for the kids or pups, gas fire pit, BBQ, and outdoor dining area. Step out the front door and explore the extensive walking trails, multiple parks, community garden, bike track, bike service area (to top off the air in the tires) 3 community pools and luxury cabanas the list goes on !
From the owner:
Welcome in our Cottage on the Glen, thoughtfully designed & cozy authentic oak cottage, nestled in the Happy Valley closed to the center of the Old town Newhall, Ca.Newhall was a famous location for Western movies that started in the early 20th century.This Cottage is located in a peacefull area, cozy surrender by a garden and a nice Oak Tree.
From the owner:
Take it easy at this unique & tranquil getaway. This Santa Clarita home is nestled on top a long driveway with incredible views. 15 min from 6 flags, & only minutes away from local shopping, restaurants, and the freeway. With 2 entertainers yards this is not one to miss. The front yard has a view & the backyard is complete with a barbecue island, 65" TV, & customized seating for groups large and small. This smart home has a TV in each room, a small gym (sauna, weights & cardio) and 4 beds.
"Best of both Worlds" because it feels how a get away is meant to be; private, relaxing, and quiet.
It feels far away but you are minutes from all the conveniences of being in the city or near the freeway.
The house sits up on a hill with the home giving a sense of privacy in most areas of the home and has two entertaining spaces.
It also has a modern element to it. The home is a smart home so just say, "hey g00gle" to turn on or off any lights (bathroom, hallway etc) which are labeled within the home. You can say, "Hey g00gle, turn on/off living room tv, turn on/off backyard lights", turn nest on/off or set nest temperature to ..."This smart home has a bluetooth speaker in the bathroom and , USB and USB-C outlets so you can plug in and charge any of your devices.
There are 4 large screen Smart TVs (1 in each room including one in the backyard). bluetooth speaker in the bathroom and a portable Bluetooth speaker so you can listen to music anywhere you go.
One of my favorite things in the home is nature. During the day you'll find humming birds, rabbits, falcons to name a few and sometimes owls which migrate. At night, I love enjoying the moonlight sky. There are some days the moon just looks and feels bigger up here.
From the owner:
Entertainers Home with everything you need! HOA pool, tennis , walking trails & much more.... Backyard cabana with TV, barbque and fire pit , spectacular view overlooking Six Flags Magic Mountain,, walking distance to malls, hiking and restaurants . 30 minute drive to Hollywood or the sandy beach! Too much to list.
Pool, jacuzzi, tennis, walking paths, hiking trails, sandy beaches, rock climbing , fishing, shopping malls, numerous restaurants, downtown Hollywood is unlimited with nightlife ! There is also Disneyland and Universal Studios within about 45 min drive.
This home is pleasantly suited to have fun or just relax... Plasma tvs in every room, barbque and watch the sunset overlooking the spectacular city. Whatever you are needing in your adventure I am confident you will leave pleased and have great memories.
Interested in having your full wedding at an Airbnb? Check out my guide!
One of the most significant advantages of choosing an Airbnb for your wedding day is the personal touch it brings to your preparations. Unlike a generic hotel room, an Airbnb offers a cozy, homely atmosphere that often mirrors the unique style and personality of the couple. As a photographer, I've found that the aesthetics and decor of these spaces can be incredibly inspiring and provide a beautiful backdrop for your getting-ready photos. From rustic cottages to modern lofts, the possibilities are endless, allowing for a personalized experience that sets the tone for the day.
In the whirlwind of the wedding day, it's essential to have a serene and comfortable environment to get ready in. Airbnb rentals often provide more privacy and space compared to a crowded hotel room. This tranquility can help you feel at ease and relaxed, which, in turn, reflects in your photos. I've witnessed the magic of intimate moments shared by the bride and her bridesmaids or the groom and his groomsmen in the seclusion of an Airbnb - these moments translate beautifully through the lens.
Lighting is a vital element in photography. Many Airbnb properties are thoughtfully designed to maximize natural light. Large windows, skylights, or outdoor spaces can flood the area with beautiful, soft, and even lighting, which is a photographer's dream. Natural light enhances skin tones, reduces harsh shadows, and creates a warm, inviting ambiance that makes for stunning photographs.
A spacious Airbnb can accommodate your hairstylists and makeup artists comfortably. Having the entire bridal party in one place, with ample room to move around and set up stations, makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. It also allows for great candid shots as everyone shares laughter, excitement, and a few happy tears.
Airbnbs often come with various nooks and crannies, unique architecture, and outdoor areas that can be used for creative photo opportunities. Whether it's a charming garden, a cozy reading corner, or a quirky wall mural, these spaces add depth and character to your photos. I've found that the diversity of spaces within a single Airbnb property enables me to capture a wide range of shots, from formal portraits to candid, storytelling images.
Choosing an Airbnb for your wedding day preparations is not just about photography; it's about creating unforgettable memories. The flexibility of these spaces allows you to relax, enjoy the process, and savor the moments leading up to your wedding ceremony. You're not just getting ready; you're crafting the first chapter of your wedding day story.
In conclusion, as a California-based wedding photographer, I've seen how the choice of getting ready location can impact the overall experience and the quality of the photos. Airbnb offers a unique and intimate setting that elevates the day and ensures a comfortable, picturesque start to your wedding. From personal touches to ample natural light and versatile spaces, there's a lot to love about this trend. If you're looking to enhance your wedding day experience and capture breathtaking moments, consider choosing an Airbnb for your preparations. Your photographer, your bridal party, and, most importantly, you will appreciate the charm and magic it brings to your special day.
Let's connect to discuss your getting ready photos!
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