Planning an AirBnB Engagement Session: Erin & Blake's Cozy Engagement

An AirBnB Engagement Session

Planning an Airbnb engagement session is a fantastic choice for couples who want a unique, intimate, and personal setting for their photos. It’s perfect for those who love cozy indoor vibes, beautiful decor, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're foodies, music lovers, or just love spending quality time together, an Airbnb engagement session offers endless possibilities. Let’s dive into Erin and Blake’s adorable story and see how their Airbnb engagement session unfolded, along with some tips on how to plan your own!

Engaged couple kissing during their Airbnb engagement sessions in Lake Arrowhead

Engaged couple picking out records to play during their Airbnb engagement session in Lake Arrowhead

Engaged couple sitting at a dinning table playing a board game during their Airbnb engagement session

Fiance hugging her boyfriend from behind while he makes their drinks during their Airbnb engagement session

Cutest Story Alert!

First, let’s talk about Erin and Blake’s incredibly sweet love story. Erin was working at a surf shop in Orange County when Blake strolled in with a friend just to browse. Blake noticed Erin right away but was too shy to make a move. He left the shop, but his friend (who would later become the best man at their wedding) convinced him to go back and ask her out. Blake mustered up the courage, went back in, and Erin said yes! She wrote her number on a surf shop business card, and they went out a few days later. The rest is history! Fun fact: Blake got that business card laminated and still carries it in his wallet every day. How adorable is that?!?

Engaged couple smiling and laughing on a bed during their Airbnb engagement session

Engaged couple sitting on a bed in an Airbnb hugging one another

Engaged couple looking into one another eyes endearingly during their engagement session

Engaged couple kissing laying on a bed in an Airbnb for their Airbnb engagement session

Working with Erin & Blake

Erin and Blake are some of my favorite people to work with! Their energy is infectious, their love is genuine, and they’ve become friends of mine since our first session. When they told me they wanted an Airbnb engagement session, I was beyond excited. They chose a beautiful Airbnb in Lake Arrowhead during winter, and it was the perfect backdrop for their cozy, snow-filled engagement shoot. The best part? We had a blast! Erin and Blake were up for anything, from snuggling by the fireplace to playing in the snow outside. It was truly unforgettable!

Engaged couple smiling and laughing at one another

Engaged couple kissing in a kitchen of an Airbnb for their engagement session

Engaged couple holding eachothers faces smiling at one another

Planning Your Airbnb Engagement Session

Now, let’s get to the good stuff, how to plan your own Airbnb engagement session. Here are some tips to make your session as special as Erin and Blake’s:

1. Choose the Right Airbnb

Selecting the perfect Airbnb is crucial. Look for a place that matches your style and vibe as a couple. Whether you’re into rustic cabins, modern lofts, or charming cottages, there’s an Airbnb out there that’s perfect for you. Make sure the space has plenty of natural light—this is key for capturing beautiful, timeless photos. Don’t forget to talk to the host to ensure they’re okay with you having a photoshoot there. Most hosts are pretty chill about it, but it’s always good to double-check!

2. Plan an Activity

Incorporating an activity into your session can make your photos even more special. Think about what you love doing together. Are you foodies? Try cooking or baking together. Love wine? Have a little wine-tasting session. Enjoy music? Dance, listen to records, or play some tunes. Erin and Blake loved the idea of staying cozy indoors, so we captured moments of them playing board games, drinking their favorite drinks, and just enjoying each other’s company. Whatever you choose, make sure it reflects who you are as a couple.

A Mans hand turning on a record player at an Airbnb

Engaged couple laying on the ground up against a cushion smiling cuddling one another

Cocktails sitting on top of records on the floor of an Airbnb

Engaged couple kissing one another while picking out records to play during their Airbnb engagement session

Girlfriend looking at fiance as he making their cocktails during their engagement session

A mans hand cutting lemons making a cocktail drink

Engaged couple hugging one another from behind while holding a cocktail

3. Embrace the Natural Light

Natural light is your best friend when it comes to photography. Try to schedule your session during the day when there’s plenty of sunlight streaming through the windows. Golden hour, which is the hour just after sunrise or before sunset, is especially beautiful! It gives your photos that warm, glowy look that’s irresistible. In Erin and Blake’s case, the winter sunlight reflecting off the snow created a stunning, soft light that was perfect for their photos.

Engaged couple sitting on a bed in an Airbnb smiling and laughing

Engaged couple standing in an Airbnb kitchen toasting with cocktails

Engaged couple sitting on a couch in an Airbnb

Engaged couple dancing in the kitchen of an Airbnb

4. Explore the Surroundings

If you’re the outdoorsy type, take advantage of the neighborhood around your Airbnb. Go for a walk, explore the nearby trails, or find a cozy spot outside for some cute shots. Erin and Blake’s Airbnb was surrounded by beautiful snowy landscapes, so we spent some time capturing their playful side in the snow on the back balcony. It added a wonderful variety to their photos and showcased their adventurous spirit.

Engaged couple smiling at one another holding mugs outside of an Airbnb in the snow at Lake Arrowhead

Engaged couple standing next to eachother holding mugs outside of an Airbnb in the snow at Lake Arrowhead

5. Communicate with Your Photographer

Make sure to communicate your vision with your photographer. Share what you love, any specific shots you want, and the overall feel you’re going for. As a Southern California photographer who loves taking a candid approach, I focus on documenting the natural flow of your love and the genuine moments you share. I strive to capture those imperfectly perfect moments that tell your unique story.

Working with Erin and Blake was a dream come true. They were fantastic at sharing their vision, trusting my suggestions, and bringing their own fun ideas to the session. We not only captured some beautiful digital photos but also took some amazing film photos that Erin and Blake specifically wanted. The film photos added a nostalgic, timeless touch to their engagement session, making their memories even more special. Collaborating with my couples to bring their vision to life is what I love most about my job!

Film engagement photo of engaged couple smiling at one another as they cuddle

Film engagement photo of engaged couple standing in an Airbnb kitchen toasting cocktails

Film engagement photo of boyfriend cutting lemons to make a cocktail

Film engagement photo of engaged couple kissing one another on the bed in an Airbnb for their Airbnb engagement session

Film engagement photo of engaged couple laying on a bed holding hands

Film engagement photo of engaged couple bouncing on a bed smiling and laughing

Film photo of engaged couple playing scrabble at a dining room table during their Airbnb engagement session

Film photo of engaged couple sitting on a chair kissing one another in an Airbnb for their Airbnb engagement session

Film photo of engaged couple outside on an Airbnb balcony in Lake Arrowhead

Making the Most of Your Airbnb Engagement

Here are a few more things to keep in mind to ensure your Airbnb engagement session goes off without a hitch:

Check the Weather: If you’re planning an outdoor session, keep an eye on the weather forecast. It can change quickly, especially in places like Lake Arrowhead. Be prepared for anything!
Bring Props: Think about bringing a few props that are meaningful to you. It could be a favorite blanket, a board game you both loveSouthern California Photographer! or even your pet!
Dress Comfortably: Wear something that makes you feel good and reflects your personal style. Layers are great, especially if you’re shooting in a cooler climate.
Relax and Have Fun: The most important thing is to enjoy the moment. Engagement sessions are all about capturing your love and connection, so let loose, be yourselves, and have a blast.

Engaged couple looking at one another sitting on a couch in an Airbnb as they drink cocktails

Black and white photo of engaged couple looking at one another sitting on a couch in an Airbnb as they drink cocktails

Engaged couple laying on the ground up against a cushion as they laugh and cuddle one another during their Airbnb engagement session

Womans hand laying on mans chest showing off engagement ring

Book Your Southern California Photographer!

If you’re thinking about an Airbnb engagement session, I’d love to help you create beautiful, candid memories just like Erin and Blake’s!

Let’s make your engagement session a fun, intimate, and unforgettable experience, whether that's at an Airbnb or one of SoCal's gorgeous locations! Book me as your Southern California engagement photographer. I can't wait to hang out!

Read my blog on indoor engagement locations ideas in Orange County for more inspo and see more of my work on Pinterest!