Woodend Sanctuary and Mansion is a hidden gem just minutes from DC: a quiet, woodsy estate where nature and elegance meet. With its lush forest ceremony space, historic mansion, and nonprofit mission, it’s the kind of place that speaks to couples who care deeply about the environment and the experience they’re creating for their guests.
If you’re dreaming of a fall wedding surrounded by trees, birdsong, and timeless architecture, this might be your spot.
Woodend Sanctuary Weddings
Woodend is perfect for couples who:
- Want to get married outdoors, surrounded by forest
- Are passionate about nature, wildlife, or bird watching
- Prefer an intimate, serene vibe over a flashy party scene
- Love the idea of supporting a nonprofit through their wedding
- Want a unique venue close to the city but far from the noise
Couples especially rave about:
- The magical ceremony space in the woods — peaceful, immersive, and full of natural charm
- The historic mansion, which adds a touch of elegance and has beautiful rooms for getting ready
- The all-season tent, which makes planning easier without sacrificing style
Venue Highlights
- Location: Chevy Chase, Maryland (just 9 miles from DC)
- Type of venue: Historic mansion + forested nature sanctuary
- Guest capacity: Up to 150 guests (Spring–Fall), 50–120 in Winter depending on setup
- Starting price: $3,900–$5,300 base rental | Up to $8,500 peak-season Saturdays
- Indoor/outdoor: Outdoor ceremony options (with indoor backup), indoor cocktail hour, climate-controlled tent reception
- Vibe: Woodsy, calm, elegant, natural, mission-driven
Best Photo Spots at Woodend
There’s a reason photographers love this venue: every corner offers something different.
- The Grove (ceremony space): Surrounded by trees, this is stunning in fall, and always has a peaceful, tucked-away vibe.
- The Mansion façade: Classic architecture with beautiful columns and stone steps — ideal for formal portraits or golden hour light.
- Bird Room + Getting Ready Suites: If it rains, or for quiet moments, the indoor spaces offer soft natural light and cozy textures.
- The forest trails + open meadows: Great for sneaking away during cocktail hour for a few candid couple portraits.
🕐 Best light: Around noon or after 5 pm (depending on season). The forest gives dappled light all day, so it’s more flexible than some open venues.
📸 Pro tip: Don’t just stick to the lawn or ceremony area, explore the trails for unexpected portrait spots.
Things to Know Before You Book
- Rain plan: Indoor ceremony in the mansion or the elegant, climate-controlled tent — both included in your rental.
- Getting ready spaces: Two separate rooms, each with a bathroom. Great for personal prep time or pre-ceremony rituals.
- Cocktail hour options: Indoors or on the lawn/portico, flexible depending on weather.
- Vendor policy: No required vendors, but they do provide a preferred list.
- Alcohol: You can bring your own, which can save quite a bit!
- Parking: Free on-site parking for ~70 cars, plus small shuttle access.
📝 Before you book: Schedule a tour. The layout and outdoor options really shine in person.
From a Photographer’s Perspective
I love that Woodend gives you so much in one location. You get forest, architecture, quiet indoor spaces, and an easy-flow layout. It’s ideal for couples who want a relaxed day without needing to travel between multiple spots.
One of my favorite moments? A packed dance floor under the tent, even with a smaller guest list, the space feels intimate and full. It makes for beautiful, energetic photos without needing 200 people.
📷 First-time photographer tip: Walk the grounds ahead of time. The forest paths and open spaces are easy to miss if you don’t explore a bit, and they make for gorgeous, natural portraits.
Planning Resources + More
- Official website: woodendsanctuary.org/weddings
- Address: 8940 Jones Mill Rd, Chevy Chase, MD 20815
- Phone: (301) 652-9188
- Instagram: @woodendsanctuary
- Booking: Inquire here
