Perth Airbnb
Elopements
The essence of an elopement is that the day is just about the two of you, and maybe a few witnesses (legally you need at least two people. I can be one of them!). So with that in mind, a great idea for an elopement ceremony is to hire an Airbnb or private holiday accommodation so you have a place to get ready, have a private ceremony and then stay the night (or longer!). It can even be a special place you can come back to every year.
Having an Airbnb ceremony works really well for those wanting a quick, one hour session because everything is in the one location. Some of the larger homes can accommodate your closest family or friends so you can make a weekend of it.
Below I've listed a few things to consider when booking an Airbnb, an example of what an elopement at an Airbnb might look like, and then I've listed the popular areas in Perth that people elope.
What to look for when booking an Airbnb for your elopement
You probably won't see the property before you stay there.
It is unlikely you will be able to view the property before your booking, so ask the owner questions if you're not sure about the layout. Once you book they should provide you with an address so you can at least do a quick search on Google Maps and perhaps do a drive-by.
Consider what season you're booking.
Properties can look vastly different between the seasons (trees drop leaves, shade can vary). Consider whether you need to stay cool or warm.
Read the owners rules.
In most cases a small small group of people witnessing a ceremony, over the space of an hour or so, should not upset the owners, so long as you remain respectful and clean up after yourself. Some properties specifically mention they don't want parties so make sure you read all the owners rules before you book. If you want to be sure you could ask their permission before booking.
It only works for very small groups.
To remain respectful of the Airbnb owners, you should only consider a very small group for an Airbnb elopement. Another rule of thumb is however many people the venue sleeps, that's how many people can visit.
Some properties share common spaces with the owners.
Some properties are listed as "entire house" but it's actually right next to a main house. I've had a few elopements with this scenario and thankfully the owners have been supportive (and honoured!) but it might not always be the case. Read the owners rules and descriptions carefully!
Look for a place that could accommodate the ceremony if it rained.
If you know that you can duck under a gazebo or hold the ceremony on an undercover balcony or a beautiful living space, then it's less stress for you on the day!
Think about dinner!
If you choose a property in the Perth Hills, for example, consider there are limited restaurants in the area. Alternatively, you can arrange a grazing platter to be delivered on the day so you don't even have to leave the property!
Below are some examples of what an Airbnb elopement might look like. The couple rented an Exclusive Escapes house for their elopement and invited two friends to be their witnesses. Keep scrolling after the images for ideas on Areas to Elope in Perth
Top Perth Elopement Areas to Consider
perth hills
Best seasons: Autumn, Winter and Spring. Can be enjoyed any time of day because of the shade from trees, however morning and afternoon sun can be particularly beautiful.
What to expect: An elopement or wedding in the Perth Hills gives you the beauty of the Western Australian bush, calming nature and lots of space. The best kind of property will have its own access to bushland so you have privacy. From the city it's only 30-40 minutes from Perth, but it feels like a holiday.
Things to consider: You might lose the sunset earlier than expected if you're in a valley or close to bush.
Popular areas: Brigadoon, Darlington, Hovea, Henley Brook, Lower Chittering, Lesmurdie and Pickering Brook.
FREMANTLE
Best seasons: All year round, any time of day
What to expect: An elopement in Fremantle gives you that wonderful contrast of old and new, awesome murals and buildings for backdrops, some rich maritime history and even the beach. This is the ideal elopement location if you want to wander on a 'wedding walk'. With lots of buildings and cute bars, there are even spaces to hide if the weather gets bad.
Things to consider: It's a popular destination for Perth people and tourists especially on weekends. Midweek can be more quiet, though do note there is a university in the west end. Consider parking options and check that no major events are being held as they may close streets etc.
Popular areas: The west end of Fremantle has all the iconic heritage buildings, great bars, the maritime museum and the beach all in walking distance. South Fremantle has a better swimming beach and a great strip of restaurants and bars.
coastal + the beach
Best seasons: Summer (or on the warm side of the shoulder seasons) close to sunset.
What to expect: An elopement by the beach in summer is showing off the best of what Western Australia has to offer - our pristine beaches and epic sunsets!
Things to consider: It is best avoid the hottest parts of the day and stick to the late afternoon or evening. A rule of thumb is; if it's too hot to stand on the sand with bare feet then it's probably too hot to stand there for an extended period of time, especially without shade or protection. Winds above 25kmph (and even higher gusts) would be considered too windy for the beach. Think hair flying in your face, sand whipping your legs, and not to mention my sensitive camera equipment! Some beaches have sand dunes that offer partial protection.
Popular areas: There are too many beaches to name, all offering their own unique standpoint! Most couples will choose accommodation close to hubs with restaurants and bars.
perth city + northbridge
Best seasons: All year round, any time of day
What to expect: An elopement in the heart of Perth City makes a fun adventure. Go for walks down interesting alley ways, pop into your favourite bar, then end the session with some delicious food. Perfect for those urban lovers who want a real mix of photos and experiences for their special day. Whilst its mostly about architecture and buildings, the Supreme Court Gardens can offer a greenspace too.
Things to consider: Midweek the City is a busy business district, particularly in the morning and evening rush hour, plus lunchtime - however on the weekend the City will be very quiet and the public gardens will be mostly deserted. Because of the access to bars and restaurants, rain wouldn't impact the ability to take great photos (though consider where you might hold the ceremony as a backup). Consider traffic and parking for any guests you invite (or suggest public transport).
Popular areas: Supreme Court Gardens, State Buildings, Elizabeth Quay, Kings Park and Northbridge.
An hour or so out of Perth
If you want that holiday elopement vibe without travelling too far out of Perth here are two great locations to consider:
york
Located: 1.5 hours from Perth
Perfect Seasons: Winter or Spring will give you the most green. Avoid summer.
An elopement or small wedding in York gives you that wonderful country feel without the huge distance. This is a great destination wedding location where guests can still drive back to Perth, or you can all stay in Town. York has some beautiful historical buildings from the early 1800's and also has an amazing view from Mount Brown. There is also the Wandoo National Park which you pass just before getting to York has the incredible wandoo trees that are native to the area.
DWELLINGUP
Located: 1.5 hours from Perth
Perfect Seasons: Autumn through to Spring. The native bushland is green all year around but the scrub will be greener after the winter rains.
An elopement or small wedding in Dwellingup gives you the feel of being in the south west without having to venture far from Perth. Set amongst the enormous Dwellingup State Forest and a site to popular camping grounds, you'll feel relaxed and calm and with the most amazing backdrops. There are plenty of interesting accomodation types to choose from, most bordering on the forest so you have easy access.
