Jazz on Jackson Place contest winner

The winner of the Jazz on Jackson Place contest, is Caroline – congratulations!  The series are so much fun and I hope you enjoy it.  Please continue to check back as we do more contests!  Image from Decatur House.

band or dj

You may have already decided if you are going to have a band or dj play at your reception.  If you have not, keep a couple things in mind.

1. budget – bands cost more than a dj (at least good ones do)

2. venue – I really like to see bands in the more formal of venues and djs in the less traditional ones.  If your reception is at the Mayflower, a band is really appropriate. If your reception is at the Newseum, a dj might be a better option.

Corcoran Ball

The Corcoran holds an annual ball, and this year was its 54th. While I didn’t attend the ball, I did attend a sneak preview, courtesy of a contact at Occasions.  Each space had a different theme, from mod to under the sea.  The vendors who pulled this off did such a great job showcasing green practices, all while keeping it unique and fun.  Images from BizBash.

Jazz on Jackson Place contest

Decatur House is a fantastic venue on Lafayette Square, right behind the White House. Not only do they host events, but beginning in May, their Jazz on Jackson Place series begins. On the first Thursday of each month May-September from 630-830p, visit Decatur House to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while listening to both local and international jazz musicians. Arioth, Director of Special Events at Decatur House sent me two tickets to Jazz on Jackson Place! Leave a comment and one person will be randomly selected for two free tickets (good on any of the series dates). The winner will be announced on April 30 – good luck!

This is also a great opportunity for you to visit Decatur House if you are looking at wedding venues and to see all its possibilities!

green and white

I have a client getting married at Meridian who is going with a green and white theme.  I’d love to see some of these ideas gracing her reception!  Images from Martha Stewart.

just ask

If you ever aren’t sure about something in a vendor’s services or contract, just ask. If the caterer has not included children’s meals in the proposal, but you’ll have at least fifteen children under age 5, ask if the can provide them.  If your reception might go over, ask the band what their hourly rate is. If your photographer’s contract states only two location are included, but you want to go downtown in addition to the church and reception site, ask if they can make the trip.

Don’t be afraid to ask your vendors for what you need.  The worst that can happen is they can’t accommodate you, but at least you will know!

The Lafayette

The Lafayette is the fabulous restaurant located inside the Hay-Adams Hotel.  Last week Alison, Director of Catering at the hotel, invited me for lunch. I’m so glad she did because not only was the meal incredible, Alison is so sweet and we could have talked for hours!  I started off with the Tomato and Basil Soup followed by the Roasted Chicken Breast with Tarragon Sauce and Basmati Rice.  Alison insisted I try the Grand Marnier Souffle and I’m so glad I did!  Thanks Alison for a great lunch, and see you in September if not before then!  Image from Hay-Adams.

The Fairmont

I’ve been to The Fairmont many times before, but wanted to stop in and meet with the Director of Catering. Robert Mikolitch, Candace and Mark gave me a tour of the space last week.  The Colonnade Room and Grand Ballroom are two options for holding your ceremony and/or reception at the hotel.  While both are great options, I really love The Colonnade room and all its windows overlooking the courtyard.  Image from The Fairmont.

unique bouquets

While these might be a little crazy for a traditional bride, they are perfect for the one doing things contemporary and totally unique.  Images from Jasmine Star.

Park Hyatt

Last week I visited with Amal at the Park Hyatt to talk more about weddings in the space.  Having undergone a recent renovation, the main floor of the hotel is quite stunning.  Most notably is Blue Duck Tavern. Unlike other hotels, the Park’s wedding clientele get to enjoy Chef McBride’s culinary delights both in the restaurant and for their event in any of the hotel’s event spaces.  The Park is a really modern and clean hotel, with amazing staff and food.  Image from Park Hyatt.