Washington Life’s guide to the capital’s most influential under 40 residents in 2010

Mayor Adrian and Michelle Fenty at The Kennedy Center Honors.

Our annual Young & The Guest List feature is known for containing the names of accomplished, dynamic, and successful Washingtonians, all under 40 and devoted to making the nation’s capital a place that attracts (and keeps) the best and the brightest. This fifth annual compilation is no exception. During the past year, myriad political and economic events have made waves far beyond the Beltway and more than a few of our players have gotten bigger headlines than seasoned veterans. Our president, after all, is only eight years past the eligibility cutoff to have been listed himself. Many of his young staff included here, have quickly become fixtures in the White House and halls of Congress, to say nothing of the social scene. We have numerous “change makers” from the government, along with major players in the arts and sciences, journalism and business as well as the non-profit and philanthropic sectors. In the spirit of the famous Irish proverb, “praise youth and it will prosper,” we share with you 250-plus men and women who dare to dream big and act even bigger.

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These event consultants are masters at organizing elaborate engagement parties and weddings down to the last perfect detail. Here are a few of their stories:

Red daisies and Swarovski crystal (Photo by Geoff Chesman)

Last Minute Miracles 

By Kathleen Doyle, Sales & Marketing Coordinator 
Janet Flowers Wedding and Event Designs

A recent “adventure” occurred when a bride called six weeks prior to her wedding (instead of the usual nine-to-twelve months in advance) after a dispute with her previous consultant. She needed complete design, production, and management for her ceremony as well as the reception. Our entire team immediately went to work, putting in calls to many of our industry friends to help us pull it off. Without these solid relationships, the task would have been impossible to accomplish within such time constraints. 

The chic, modern reception was based upon a red, white and black color palette, with each custom-designed table requiring an equally unique floral design. For example, each white lacquer shadow box surface was tailored with unique patterns and textures beneath one-inch Plexiglas toppers. Another “cabaret effect” table design required glass cylinders filled with red gerbera daisies and topped by dripping red Swarovski crystals.

Our client was thrilled that we fulfilled all her wishes for a “dream wedding.” Remember, confidence and trust in your design team is critical to your peace of mind as well as the ultimate success of any event. 

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The sleek glass and metal redesign of the Park Hyatt Washington is the ideal setting for WL’s modern, clean-lined bridal gowns of Spring/Summer 2007.

By Barbara McConaghy
Photography by Len de Pas at The Park Hyatt Washington
Hair Cindy Booth, Make-up by Anita Bahramy
Floral Design Kelly for Capital Décor and Events

Platinum Collection strapless silk gown with embroidered bodice, waist detail, and beaded tulle skirt, $4,800, Carine’s; antique platinum pave diamond drop earrings, $8,100, round and marquise diamond necklace, $35,000, and 5.6 CT diamond ring in platinum setting, $57,500 all by Boone and Sons; Chantel head piece, $195, Trousseau; Moyna Couture beaded wrist-cord handbag, $265, Harriet Kassman; bouquet of jade green roses, hydrangea, cymbidium, and black calla lilies.

Our selections are at once romantic yet confident looks that speak to the contemporary Washington woman. New this season, softer dresses in slip and empire shapes that add airiness; ruching and draping for subtle body consciousness; and the continuation of intricately beaded accents, insets and overlays. As a counterpoint to the modern gowns, reach back for vintage and estate jewelry inspiration, and add the boldness of innovative floral design. In all, go for a modern romance.

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