Hey there, fellow wedding lovers! We’re Alyse and Ben, destination wedding photographers who have spent countless mornings capturing brides and grooms getting ready for their big day across the most beautiful locations in Italy. Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of our favorite wedding day preparation secrets: using an Airbnb as your getting-ready location. First, let’s take a look at our Top Five picks in Catania!

Indaco Garden House

From the Owner:

Just a 10 minute walk from the station and the sea, a few minutes from the metro station, the historic centre, the famous market, the baroque and the movida, you will stay in an enchanting house inside a 19th-century palazzetto that will immerse you in a relaxing yet sophisticated atmosphere. Colours and comfort, past and present, a unique mix capable of instilling energy and well-being. You will be enveloped in silence and greenery while being in the most central point of Catania

Teatro Bellini, historic center suite

From the Owner:

Surround yourself with history and style in the heart of Catania! This elegant 180 sqm apartment, just 5 minutes from Piazza Duomo, offers a rare opportunity to live in an environment decorated with original 1800s frescoes. The apartment is included in full kitchen, six balconies overlooking the lively city, modern bathroom, WiFi, Smart TV, work area, and comfortable armchairs for reading. Large bedroom with a sofa bed. A unique experience in a historic jewel in the city center!

Filomena Domus charming rooftop

From the Owner:

Filomena Domus is a prestigious penthouse in the heart of the old town of Catania, located on the seventh and last floor of a palace on the renowned Santa Filomena street, equipped with a large Rooftop overlooking the many clubs of the city’s nightlife, from which guests can enjoy an exclusive view of the city’s rooftops while from the bathroom windows you can see Etna. The penthouse is ideal for couples who want to discover the diverse, colorful and multi-ethnic Catania

A PALAZZO

From the Owner:

Charming apartment in one of the most prestigious noble palaces in Catania, Palazzo del Toscano, located in the very central Via Etnea and Piazza Stesicoro. The palace is a few steps away from the city’s major historical sites of historical interest. Below the house there are metro, bus, taxi. The house, about 120 square meters, is elegantly furnished with antique furniture and typical Sicilian objects and is equipped with all comforts. Ideal place to tour the city but also to enjoy the nightlife of Catania.

Luisa’s apartment

From the Owner:

in the most evocative area of ​​the historical center. The apartment with an elegant style, mixed between ancient and modern and furnished with high quality furniture. Two very comfortable beds, double and single. Balcony overlooks the lively Via Penninello ,Via Etnea, and Via Crociferi -Villa Cerami. High quality appliances (washer-dryer – digital TV – air conditioning / heat pump, refrigerator and induction cooker) that ensure comfortable and satisfying stays even for medium to long-term.

Why We Love Airbnbs for Wedding Preparations

After photographing weddings across Italy for years, we’ve learned that where you get ready can make a massive difference in your wedding day experience. Traditional hotel rooms can feel sterile, cramped, and lack the personality that makes your wedding morning special. Enter the Airbnb – a game-changer for wedding day preparations that we’ve fallen in love with time and time again.

Space and Comfort

Hotels often confine you to a single room with limited natural light and awkward layouts. In contrast, Airbnbs typically offer multiple rooms, allowing your wedding party to spread out comfortably. Imagine having a spacious living area for hair and makeup, a bright bedroom for getting dressed, and maybe even a beautiful terrace for those stunning pre-wedding photos.

We remember a wedding in the Tuscan countryside where our couple found an absolutely breathtaking Airbnb with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking rolling vineyards. The natural light was incredible, and the space allowed everyone to move freely without feeling cramped. The bridesmaids could relax in one area, the bride could have her own getting-ready space, and the overall atmosphere was relaxed and joyful.

Aesthetic Appeal

Let’s be real – your getting-ready photos are going to be some of the most cherished memories of your wedding day. An Airbnb with character can provide the most stunning backdrop for these intimate moments. We’ve seen Airbnbs with:

• Vintage Italian furniture
• Stunning architectural details
• Beautiful natural light
• Unique color palettes
• Gorgeous outdoor spaces

Compared to a standard hotel room, an Airbnb can add so much personality and local flavor to your wedding morning memories.

Check out our favorite venues in Catania!

Practical Considerations for Choosing the Right Airbnb

Location is Key

When selecting an Airbnb for your wedding preparations, consider its proximity to your:

• Wedding venue
• Ceremony location
• Hair and makeup artists
• Potential photo locations

We always recommend choosing a location that minimizes travel time on your wedding day. The less time you spend in transit, the more time you’ll have for celebrating and creating memories.

Space Requirements

Think about how many people will be getting ready with you. You’ll want to ensure there’s enough room for:

• Hair and makeup artists
• Your wedding party
• Photographers and potentially videographers
• Your wedding attire and accessories
• A space to relax and enjoy the morning

Pro tip: Always communicate with the Airbnb host about your plans. Most are incredibly accommodating and can provide additional insights about the space.

Potential Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)

Booking Considerations

• Book early, especially during peak wedding season
• Communicate clearly with the host about your plans
• Ensure the Airbnb allows events or large gatherings
• Check for parking availability
• Verify Wi-Fi and electrical outlet accessibility

Logistics to Consider

• Arrive the day before to familiarize yourself with the space
• Have a backup plan for any unexpected issues
• Consider travel time and potential traffic
• Confirm check-in and check-out times align with your wedding schedule

Making the Most of Your Airbnb Wedding Prep Space

Preparation is Everything

• Pack an emergency wedding day kit
• Bring nice hangers for wedding attire photos
• Consider bringing some simple decorative elements
• Plan your timeline with buffer time

Photo Opportunities

As photographers, we can’t stress enough how much we love Airbnbs for creating unique photo moments. Look for:

• Interesting architectural details
• Beautiful natural light sources
• Unique furniture or decor
• Outdoor spaces with great views

Cost Considerations

Often, an Airbnb can be more cost-effective than booking multiple hotel rooms. Plus, you get the added benefit of a more personalized, spacious environment. Many Airbnbs also offer kitchen facilities, allowing your wedding party to enjoy breakfast or mimosas together before the ceremony.

A Word of Caution

While Airbnbs can be fantastic, always have a backup plan. Make sure to:

• Communicate clearly with the host
• Have a contingency plan for unexpected issues
• Consider wedding insurance
• Be respectful of the property and local regulations

Our Personal Recommendation

We always suggest doing a virtual tour or requesting additional photos from the host. Many hosts are happy to provide extra images or even a video walkthrough to help you understand the space better.

Final Thoughts

Using an Airbnb for your wedding preparations can transform your wedding morning from potentially stressful to absolutely magical. It’s about creating a space that feels comfortable, looks beautiful, and allows you to relax and enjoy these precious moments with your closest friends and family.

A Quick Disclaimer

Every wedding is unique, and what works for one couple might not work for another. Always do your research, communicate openly, and choose a space that feels right for you.

We hope this guide helps you understand the magic of using an Airbnb for your wedding day preparations. If you’re planning a destination wedding in Italy and want more advice, we’d love to hear from you! Drop us a message, and let’s chat about creating those unforgettable wedding day memories.