Top Five Airbnbs for Manchester-By-The-Sea Wedding
Hello, everyone! I'm Adam Gorham, a wedding videographer based in Massachusetts, and I'm here to share some valuable insights on a topic that many couples might overlook during their wedding planning: using an Airbnb to get ready for your big day. As a videographer who has had the pleasure of capturing numerous weddings, I've seen firsthand how the choice of preparation location can impact the overall experience and the resulting footage. After we look at my top five, we will dive into why an Airbnb can be an excellent choice for your wedding day preparations and how to make the most of it.
Romantic 70s Ranch
From the Owner:
Welcome to our Boho style raised-ranch home, set on a magnificent 5.5 acre forested lot, uncontested by neighbors or noise. Relish the peace and quiet of our unusual property and enjoy a soak under the stars in our hot tub surrounded by ancient boulders and tall pines- truly a serene experience. Wake up to singing birds, and explore the nature trails that start right on our property and connect to conservation land and other trails. An easy 25 minute drive to Salem and Haunted Happenings.
Rocky Hill Tree Top Studio
From the Owner:
Minutes from the coast along a wooded road, this property greets you with nature and art. With a tree top view filtering amazing sunsets you feel away from it all. This property is a place to create. Home of a metal sculptor, art is woven into a lifestyle of art and nature. The nearby studio is an amazing place that welcomes visitors. Wake to the wonderful trees and landscape this property has, while staying in our newly renovated, thoughtfully designed & styled space.
Lakefront Cottage
From the Owner:
Enjoy a cozy stay in a lake front cottage. Located in Essex, on chebacco lake, this 3 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home has everything you could need. Fully stocked kitchen, comfortable living space with wifi and a large TV, and a comfy couch overlooking the lake. We have a external monitor with a keyboard and mouse to set up a workstation if needed. A large deck and seasonal dock to hang out on. Close to the ocean if you get tired of the lake. It's an excellent home base on Boston's North Shore.
Magnolia By The Sea
From the Owner:
Enjoy the wooded setting, beautiful gardens and privacy of our family vacation home, just a few minute walk to Magnolia beach. Our 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home includes a large family room, well appointed eat-in kitchen, basement rec room with pool table, spacious deck and huge yard. We're a 15 minute drive from two of the most beautiful beaches in New England, Wingaersheek and Good Harbor. Whale watch, deep sea fishing, museums, shops and restaurants in downtown Gloucester are a 10 minute ride
Marvelous 3 bed
From the Owner:
Have fun with the whole family at this stylish place. There's plenty of space and enjoy time with your friends or family on your own private deck. This home has a unique style and design inside. Equipped with a spacious basement and laundry. Only steps from the famous singing beach and the train that takes you right to Downtown Salem and Beverly mass. Free parking and a parking garage. Bikes and kayaks for rent. This is a quiet area and is watching distance to a grocery store and coffee shops.
Check out my Manchester Beach Guide!
Why Choose an Airbnb?
From the Owner:
Space and Comfort
One of the main advantages of using an Airbnb for your wedding preparations is the ample space and comfort it offers. Traditional hotel rooms can often feel cramped and lack the homey touches that can help you relax. With an Airbnb, you have access to entire homes or apartments, which means more space for you and your bridal party to spread out, get ready, and even have some pre-wedding fun.
Aesthetic Appeal
Airbnbs come in all shapes, sizes, and styles. You can choose a location that matches the aesthetic of your wedding, whether it's a charming rustic farmhouse, a chic modern loft, or a quaint seaside cottage. The right setting can enhance the atmosphere of your preparation moments and make for beautiful photos and videos. Imagine getting ready in a beautifully decorated space that complements your wedding theme—it's like having an extension of your wedding venue.
Privacy and Personalization
When you book an Airbnb, you have the entire place to yourselves. This means no interruptions from hotel staff or other guests, allowing you to enjoy a private, intimate experience with your closest friends and family. Plus, you can personalize the space to fit your needs and preferences, from setting up a makeup and hair station to arranging a cozy area for some pre-wedding relaxation.
Get a better idea of how to plan your wedding here and here!
How to Choose the Right Airbnb
Location, Location, Location
When selecting an Airbnb, consider its proximity to your wedding venue. You don't want to spend too much time traveling on your wedding day, so choose a place that's conveniently located. Additionally, think about the logistics of getting ready—ensure there's enough parking for your bridal party and any vendors who may be coming to the Airbnb.
Size and Amenities
Make sure the Airbnb you choose is spacious enough to accommodate your bridal party comfortably. Look for listings that offer multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, as this can make a big difference in ensuring everyone has space to get ready. Amenities like good lighting, large mirrors, and comfortable seating are also important to consider. If you plan to have a makeup artist and hairstylist come to the Airbnb, ensure there's a suitable area for them to work.
Style and Ambiance
Choose an Airbnb that reflects the style and ambiance you envision for your wedding day. Browse through the photos in the listing to get a sense of the decor and overall feel of the space. Pay attention to details like natural light, which can significantly impact the quality of your photos and videos. A well-lit, beautifully decorated space can set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable morning of preparations.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Visit in Advance
If possible, visit the Airbnb in advance to get a feel for the space and plan out where everything will go on the day of the wedding. This can help you identify any potential issues and ensure that the space meets your needs. If an in-person visit isn't possible, ask the host for a virtual tour or additional photos.
Communicate with the Host
Open communication with your Airbnb host is key to ensuring everything goes smoothly. Let them know about your plans and any specific needs you may have. Most hosts are more than willing to accommodate requests and can provide helpful information about the property and the surrounding area.
Plan for the Unexpected
As with any aspect of wedding planning, it's important to have a backup plan. Make sure you have all the essentials you might need, from extra beauty supplies to an emergency kit with things like safety pins, double-sided tape, and stain remover. It's also a good idea to have a plan for inclement weather if you're hoping to utilize any outdoor spaces at the Airbnb.
Making the Most of Your Airbnb
Setting the Scene
Take some time to set up the space in a way that will make you feel comfortable and relaxed. This might include arranging a cozy seating area for breakfast and coffee, setting up a playlist with your favorite tunes, and creating a designated area for hair and makeup. Small touches like fresh flowers, scented candles, and personalized decor can make the space feel extra special.
Creating Photo and Video Opportunities
As a videographer, I can't stress enough how important it is to think about the visual aspects of your preparation space. Choose areas with good natural light for getting ready, as this will enhance the quality of your photos and videos. Consider doing a first look with your bridal party in a beautifully decorated room or even stepping outside for some candid moments in a picturesque garden or patio.
Enjoying the Moment
Your wedding day will be filled with a whirlwind of emotions and activities, so it's crucial to take some time to savor the moment. Use the morning to relax, laugh, and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Having a private, comfortable space like an Airbnb can make all the difference in creating a calm and joyful atmosphere as you prepare for one of the most important days of your life.
Using an Airbnb to get ready for your wedding can offer a unique and personalized experience that sets the stage for a memorable day. With the right planning and preparation, you can create a beautiful and comfortable space that enhances your wedding day preparations and results in stunning photos and videos. Whether you choose a cozy cottage, a modern loft, or a rustic farmhouse, the key is to find a place that reflects your style and makes you feel at home.
As a wedding videographer, I've seen the magic that can happen when couples choose the perfect preparation space. The relaxed, intimate moments captured in a beautifully decorated Airbnb can be some of the most cherished memories of your wedding day. So, if you're planning your big day, consider the benefits of using an Airbnb—you might just find it's the perfect place to prep.
Thank you for reading, and I hope these tips help you create a wonderful wedding day experience. If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out. Happy wedding planning!
