Tessa & Michael | Enchanted Forest Wedding at InterContintental DC: The Wharf 

Tessa and Michael had an incredible, enchanted forest-inspired wedding at InterContinental DC. When their planner, Sarah Kazemburg, first contacted me about photographing their wedding day, I knew I had to be a part of it. Every detail of this wedding was executed with precision to transform the venue into something out of a fairytale. It was one of the most memorable weddings I’ve ever photographed, and I’m so glad to finally share the photos of Tessa and Michael’s unforgettable day. 

A Washington, DC Wedding Day

Tessa and Michael call DC home and wanted their wedding to reflect their favorite parts of the city, without the typical monument backdrops or Union Station photos. Instead, they chose The Wharf as their venue, perfectly combining their love for DC with their unique style.

In true DC fashion, the day brought a surprise: an Oktoberfest celebration was taking place outside The Wharf, making their original portrait location impossible. Sarah and I brainstormed some secondary location options and pivoted to a new plan. Knowing Tessa and Michael had spent countless date nights at The Kennedy Center, we made a few calls and secured it as the perfect location for their first look and portraits. The result? Photos that were not only stunning but deeply personal.

An Indoor Enchanted Forest 

Tessa and Michael’s vision was clear from the start: to bring an enchanted forest to life within the InterContinental DC. With big dreams, you need the right team by your side, and Tessa and Michael found the perfect one. Sarah Kazemburg Events and Sweet Root Village truly blew me away with every detail.

From draping to lighting and even glassware, every detail of this day was perfectly executed to fit Tessa and Michael’s vision. Textured floral arrangements filled the ceremony space, but nothing could have prepared guests for the view when they first entered the reception space. Trees towered over the tables, surrounded by lush florals and glowing candlelight. Each table had its own unique design, creating visual interest and making every space feel purposeful. Even the bars were custom-painted green to match the aesthetic. I’ve never seen a reception space so completely transformed, and I was in awe of the work and passion that went into this project. 

Liz Andolina Wedding Photography 

What made Tessa and Michael’s wedding truly extraordinary was their authenticity and intentionality. Their wedding day was designed not around trends or tradition but what felt best to them. They co-wrote their vows and read them together during the ceremony. Instead of bouquets for the wedding party, focused on statement florals around the ceremony space. Rather than a guest book, they placed note cards at each setting, inviting guests to share their thoughts and memories for a time capsule. Every detail felt purposeful and full of love. 

When a wedding day is this deeply authentic, the photos naturally follow suit. Each image captured the energy, joy, and overwhelming love that filled the room. This day was such a beautiful display of celebration and design, and I’m so glad I could be a part of it. If you’re looking for timeless wedding photography through an editorial lens, I’d love to hear more about your wedding vision. 

Photographer: Liz Andolina Photography
Planning & Design: Sarah Kazemburg Events
Florals: Sweet Root Village
Ceremony Musician: Cynthia Marie Music
Jazz Musicians: Lucy Black Entertainment
DJ: My DeeJay
Beauty: Caitlyn Meyer Hair & Makeup
Invitations: Minted
Custom Stationery: Hazelwood Paper Co.
Draping & Fabrication: Fabrication Events
Lighting: Frost DC
Rentals: Something Vintage Rentals, DC Rental, Nuage Designs
Content Creator: LaFave Media
Photo Booth: Active Photo Booth
Childcare: White House Nannies
Transportation: All Pro Charter
Venue: Intercontinental DC The Wharf