Jenny and Paulina's Queer Wedding in Chevy Chase - Natasha Lamalle

As a Maryland wedding photographer, I’m always excited to document a queer wedding at a new venue. Jenny and Paulina found Woodend Sanctuary and Mansion in Chevy Chase by chance. It was the first venue they visited and they immediately fell in love with it.

If you’re in the early stages, I always encourage couples to ask direct questions:
How does the venue support LGBTQ+ couples?
Do they use inclusive language in contracts?
Have they hosted queer weddings before?

Those answers will tell you everything. Check my list of the Top Wedding Venues in Maryland to discover more locations.

Plan Your Queer Wedding

October is hands down the best month to get married at Woodend Sanctuary and Mansion. The fall colors during this time of year are simply breathtaking, transforming the entire landscape into a stunning natural canvas. For Paulina and Jenny’s wedding, these warm, rich tones provided the perfect backdrop for their special day, making every photo feel like it was part of a magical autumn. The outdoor ceremony felt intimate, as if we were tucked away in the heart of nature.

First, they rethought traditional wedding roles. There was no “bride side” or “groom side.” Guests were invited to sit wherever they felt connected. Language throughout the ceremony was intentionally chosen. Their officiant avoided gendered clichés and focused on their story instead.

When planning a queer wedding, small details like this create a huge shift in how the day feels.
• Think about how you’re announced at the reception.
• Decide what feels right for getting ready spaces.
• Choose attire that reflects you, not expectations.

Woodend made this easy because the venue flows naturally between the outdoor ceremony and the indoor reception. No rigid structure, no pressure to perform tradition, just space to celebrate.

Choosing LGBTQ+ Affirming Vendors

One of the most important parts of planning a queer wedding is building a vendor team that genuinely supports you. Not just “accepts.” Supports.

Ask vendors how they approach queer weddings. Look at their portfolios. Do you see real representation? Do their blog posts and social media reflect diverse couples?

As a documentary photographer, my goal is always to protect your experience. That means using the right language, understanding family dynamics that might be complex, and creating space for chosen family to be honored just as deeply as biological relatives.

At Woodend Sanctuary and Mansion, the getting-ready rooms are filled with natural light and offer flexibility. That matters more than people realize. You’re not forced into “his and hers” rooms. You get to decide what feels right. Jenny and Paulina created a day that reflected them. Quietly powerful. Rooted in love. Surrounded by community. And honestly? That’s the whole point.