Woodend Sanctuary & Mansion

>> NEW: we hear you! As of 2020, from June through September, Woodend provides complimentary air conditioning in our tented terrace, in addition to the existing fans, tented heaters, and chandeliers. Woodend's tent is dressed up with drapes and ceiling liner, so it's always elegant, whether you want all panels open with plenty of fresh air, or with all clear panels closed. <<

Woodend Sanctuary & Mansion is an elegant wedding venue located in Chevy Chase, Maryland. It is conveniently situated just 9 miles from downtown DC on a private 40-acre nature sanctuary. Originally built in 1927, this historic location was designed by the renowned architect John Russell Pope, who also designed the Jefferson Memorial and the National Archives Building. Environmentally conscious couples might enjoy this venue’s commitment to nature and wildlife preservation.

Facilities and Capacity

Elegant yet relaxed, Woodend Sanctuary & Mansion provides couples with the convenience of having both ceremony and reception at the same location, whether it’s indoors or outdoors. Your outdoor ceremony can be held in the estate's romantic tree-lined grove for dreamy, fairytale-inspired wedding photos. Should the weather not oblige, this venue offers a modern, climate-controlled tent that is set up on the paved terrace adjacent to the manor. This luxurious outdoor option, available from April through November, features chandeliers, side panels, drapes, heaters, fans, and various pieces of equipment to manage the temperature, including air conditioning from June through September. During winter, couples can hold their celebration inside the historic walls of the mansion in the stately Great Hall and Living Room. The house and its grounds can accommodate up to 170 guests between April and November, and 120 guests from December through March. For larger celebrations, small shuttles and minibuses are allowed on the grounds to accommodate guests who may be staying in nearby towns.

Woodend's staging areas can accommodate large wedding parties. Both rooms have restrooms and are the perfect places to finish getting ready and do detail photos of shoes, gown, boutonniere, bouquet, rings and so much more. Couples who need a private room for a pre-wedding ceremony such as signing the Ketubah, can choose one of these two private rooms for this purpose as well.

Services Offered

Approved caterers vetted by Woodend supply waiting staff, attendants, food, soft drinks and bar mixers, but you can supply your own alcohol and the caterer provides the bartender to serve it. In addition, the caterers provide setup and cleanup services to ensure that you can focus on enjoying your special day and time with loved ones. Dining equipment is provided by the caterers, so you can have a one-stop-shop experience instead of spending your precious time worrying about rentals, or having to use what you dislike. Items include standard or specialty linens, china, stemware, flatware, and tables and chairs of your choice. At Woodend you can achieve the look you've always envisioned with upgraded options such as farmhouse tables and ghost chairs.

Caterers take care of the setting-up and tearing-down for the event to ensure a smooth and relaxing experience during and after your wedding celebration.