An engagement is one of the most exciting life events to celebrate.
The coming together of families, the love and beauty of it all can make wedding planning a joy.
But sometimes that feeling can be quickly dulled by the daunting cost, with experts estimating that the average wedding costs anywhere from £18,000 to £32,000.
So it's no surprise that brides and grooms to be are often looking for non-traditional ways to celebrate.
And one of the most recently popular trends is hiring out an Airbnb to host either the entire wedding or just the reception.
So, if your wedding day is coming up, here are some beautiful options in and around Bristol that you can book for the big day:
Barley Wood
Wrington, North Somerset, England
This hidden gem located not far from Bristol Airport is a social enterprise owned and run by YMCA Dulverton Group.
The beautiful house and grounds host weddings and events, with both indoor and outdoor areas licensed for wedding ceremonies and plenty of space within the house and ground for the reception afterwards.
Couples also get exclusive use of the house and grounds over the weekend of the wedding, giving them time to decorate as they wish and relax beforehand after the big day itself.
Those who wish to book the property can see the details on the Airbnb listing.
Swallet Farm
Somerset, England, United Kingdom
Swallet Farm offers groups an escape from the city, providing tranquil isolation near to Cheddar Gorge, and the City of Wells in the heart of the Mendip Hills.
Guests will have exclusive use of the whole converted farmhouse, as well as the impressive four acres of grounds. The house itself can host up to 26 people, making it perfect for the bridal party.
Whilst the farmhouse isn't licensed to host weddings, the huge grounds can accommodate blessings or reception ceremonies.
Further information can be found on the Airbnb listing.
Court House Farm
Portishead, England, United Kingdom
Court House Farm is a romantic listed site, that is home to a medieval and Tudor private Manor House and small estate, with a beautiful small flower farm.
The stunning property, located in Portishead, is a private house however they do offer occasional letting and just a few special weddings.
Situated next to a 12th-century church, this beautiful medieval manor would make for the perfect fairytale wedding.
More information can be found on the Airbnb listing or wedding brochure.
Newton Lodge
Rockhampton, England, United Kingdom
Newton Lodge is a beautiful property that even boasts a pool and a hot tub.
Located near Thornbury, it is popular for wedding parties and hen dos alike and is looking to start taking bookings for weddings this year.
As if the beautiful property wasn't a sell enough, they also offer additional extras including a private chef, yoga instructor, personal trainer, beauticians and even local private hire of salon for larger groups.
The impressive property once housed a celebrity too, being the childhood home of comedian Russel Howard, according to the listing. The current owners say they purchased the Lodge from the star's parents 12 years ago.
The full listing can be viewed on Airbnb.
Shepherd's Estate
Bath and North East Somerset, England, United Kingdom
Shepherd's Estate sits quietly in the Somerset countryside location with views of Chew Valley Lake.
The estate is made up of two luxurious properties, Shepherd’s Lodge and Lakeview, with one huge outdoor space. It is specifically designed for groups, with room for up to 26 people.
Between the two properties, there are lots of places to socialise or relax - including a games room with a pool table, bar and barbecue areas, a hot tub and gorgeous views of Chew Valley Lake and the Mendip Hills.
The incredible grounds are the perfect place to host your special day. More information can be found on the Airbnb listing.
Ford Farm Barns
Bradford Leigh, England, United Kingdom
Ford Farm Barns boasts nine bedrooms, a heated pool and a tennis court as well as fabulous grounds.
The luxury converted farm is the perfect place for special celebrations. The garden room in the farmhouse seats 24 around its large table, making it a great place for a wedding breakfast.
Located on the edge of the Cotswolds, this beautiful property would make an incredible backdrop for any wedding.
More details can be found on the Airbnb listing.
Kingsley Lake View & Paddocks
Bath and North East Somerset, England, United Kingdom
Only three miles away from the beautiful Chew Magna, this property invites guests to "lounge in the outdoor hot tub heated all year, shoot some pool in the Sports Bar, fire up the gas Barbie on the sun-trap terrace". What better place to spend your wedding with loved ones?
And, if you want to enjoy nature after partying too hard on your wedding night, you can escape to the Somerset countryside, enjoy wonderful walks and spot the wildlife.
More information about your potential perfect wedding location can be found on the Airbnb listing.
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