Monday, December 29, 2008

Obama's Inauguration Travel: Balls and Parties, part 2

Just days away from the historic event of Obama's Inauguration - so many events and parties, so little time. Here's more to add to your calendar and watch list!

Check out prior helpful hints here:





Pre-Inauguration Balls

January 16, 2009. United States Chamber of Congress, 1615 H St., NW. Sponsored by the National Congress of Black Women. Tickets: $135 Dessert Reception, $285 Dinner.

44/44 Grassroots Pre-Inaugural Ball, Virginia
January 17, 2009
The Democratic Black Caucus of Virginia and The Virginia Association of Democratic Chairs
Doors open at 6:30 PM
Crystal Gateway Marriott
1700 Jefferson Davis Highway
Arlington, VA 22202


Blue Jeans Inaugural Ball "Denim to Diamonds"Fairfax County Democratic Committee
January 17, 2009
8PM-Midnight
Richard J. Ernst Community Cultural Center at Northern Virginia Community College
8333 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA 22003

Jan. 17, 2009.
Hyatt Regency, 400 New Jersey Ave. Sponsored by The Babyboomer Professionals. Event is open to all professionals, their families and friends. Tickets: $175.
Jan. 17, 2009.
Camelot by Martins, 13905 Central Ave. Upper Marlboro, MD. Formal dinner gala, Live entertainment, special guest soloist, video tribute and more. Hosted by volunteers from the Obama For America organization. Tickets: $75
Jan. 17, 2009.
Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, 1301 Constitution Ave. NW. DC’s most environmentally-friendly pre-Inaugural celebration. Organic food and drink, LED lighting, entertainment audio-visual production will be tailored to minimize environmental impact. Tickets: $500.
Jan. 17, 2009.
Trinity University, 125 Michigan Ave. NE. The event will give youth the opportunity to share in the inaugural festivities. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to National Network for Youth. Tickets: $75 first 200 sold - $100 thereafter.

Mocha Moms, Inc. Inauguration Gala
January 18, 2009
7pm - Midnight

$100/Mocha Couple ticket, $150/Non-Mocha Couple ticket, $50/Mocha Single ticket and $75/Non-Mocha Single ticket. Purchase tickets via Mocha Moms' website.
This Gala will be a night to remember, as Mocha Moms and their husbands from around the country join in celebration of the inauguration of our nation’s first African-American President. We will celebrate that night with fabulous food, great dancing, and intimate fellowship. There will be a live DJ, full cash bar, and a photographer to capture the night’s memories.
Jan. 18, 2009.
Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, National Mall. Tickets: $150.

Jan. 18, 2009.
Four Seasons Hotel, 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. The black-tie event will bring together notable business persons, political figures and entertainers for an inter generational celebration. Tickets: $350-$550. Contact Francesca Louis at francesca@americanscholarsball.org

Jan. 18, 2009.
The James Monroe Mansion, 2017 I St., NW. Sponsored by Embassies of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia and the Republic of Ghana. Tickets: $350. Available to the public after Dec. 29.
Jan. 18, 2009.
Annapolis, 100 Westgate Circle, Annapolis, MD. Sponsored by Therapeutic Wellness LLC to benefit the Diane Freeman Foundation. Black tie, four course dinner, live music, silent auction. Tickets: $150.
Jan. 18, 2009.
Hotel Monaco, 700 F Street NW. Hosted by the Junior State of America and The Junior Statesmen Foundation. Tickets: $75, or sponsorship levels available. Contact alumni@jsa.org.

Loudoun County Grassroots Inaugural Ball, Virginia
Loudoun County Democratic Committee
January 19, 2009
7 PM - 1 AM
O'Faolain's Restaurant and Pub
20921 Davenport Dr
Sterling, VA 20165

Inauguration Dinner and Dance, Virginia
January 20, 2009
Alexandria Democratic Committee
Evening (Time TBA)
Hilton Alexandria Mark Center
5000 Seminary Road
Alexandria, VA 22311
For More Details: 703-549-DEMS or office@alexdems.org

Mocha Moms, Inc. Inauguration Watch Party
January 20, 2009
10am-2pm

Mocha Families will gather to watch the inauguration events in a safe and warm environment. The country club will be converted into a family-friendly atmosphere where children will be comfortable while the adults enjoy the events by big screen television. While millions converge on the Mall of our Capital, we will get to enjoy the occasion together in the comfort of the indoors. We will have a buffet lunch of grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, deli sandwiches, all the fixings, chips, fruit, cookies, tea and lemonade. This event will only be $25/adult and free for children 12 and under!

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Holiday Girl Getaway - Kid Style

My 8 year old learned early-on the importance of spending time with her friends. Pure friendship, at its best. This holiday season, we took time out from the hectic holiday season, and invited 3 classmates over for her sort-of annual holiday sleepover. Crafts, fashion show, baking and much....much chatter. This year we added a twist and lucked up on The North Pole - a neighborhood house that goes ALL out with holiday decor, complete with a visit from Santa and his Elves.

Take time out this week to enjoy the simple things. Have a wonderful holiday season!

Friday, December 19, 2008

Girlfriendology

I found this fascinating quote today:



This seasonal feeling of gratitude is a huge part of why I love the holidays. The tradition of evaluting the past and planning for the future can’t even happen without the consideration and appreciation of my girlfriends. The opportunity to celebrate anything, of course, has to involve girlfriends - in order for it to be fun and special. Even the process of gift giving, is best when it involves a friend and finding the perfect gift for her. It seems the holidays are as much as about girlfriends as they are about families and kids. To me, my girlfriends are my family, so I savor these friendships and special days to celebrate them.Girlfriendology, Dec 2008



You should read the whole article.

Monday, December 15, 2008

Holiday Travel Essentials

Season's Greetings! I must say, I absolutely love this time of year. Not only do I enjoy the holiday cheer and spirit of giving, but I'm a sucker for sales!! I make it a point to finish up shopping for others early, so I have time to spoil myself with a diva-licious gift to ME! :)

Whether you're headed to spend time with family, girlfriends or your long distance love-bug, the goal is to look and feel fabulous. We've come across these amazing travel essentials that are certainly fit for a diva and will last well into the New Year. Enjoy!

Psi Bands

Ladies, trust me - keeled over in your car or plane seat due to motion sickness is NOT a good look! Prone to motion sickness or nausea? You need to check out Psi Bands. Psi Bands (pronounced "Sigh Bands") were created by two fashion-forward moms-to-be looking for a drug-free way to treat their ongoing morning sickness.

Not only do these bands relieve sickness, they are drug-free, hip and fashionable! You can wear them without looking like a runaway hospital patient with the typical white plastic band! Grab your Psi Band before your flight to see your love-bug and breathe a sigh of relief! You can purchase online or in stores of major retailers.

Casauri Triple Zip Pouch

How many times have you stood in line at the airport, fumbling for your driver's license or credit card? Me: countless! Why hunt through the endless sea in your handbag, when you can simply pull out this vibrant, Casauri Triple Zip Pouch from Artful Wears? Large enough to carry your license/passport, credit card, along with other diva essentials and most importantly, it's super cute. I'm torn between the Sun Stripes or Blocks option.


"Clean" and "Dirty" Lingerie Bag

LOVING these! No more stashing your dirty laundry in a plastic grocery store bag - also from Artful Wears, these "Dirty" and "Clean" Lingerie Bags making unpacking after your festive journey much easier and stress free.



Shuga Bud earphones

Santa, I need these added to my stocking! Shuga Bud earphones from Crazy for That are hot! These earphones will keep you looking sharp while grooving to your favorite tunes. Shuga Buds are also a great way to dress up your IPod! A wonderful stocking stuffer for your favorite diva..i.e YOU ;)





Thursday, December 11, 2008

Obama's Inauguration Travel Plans: Ball and Parties

Break out your cocktail dresses! Many details on some of the hottest Inauguration Balls and parties are being released. In case you still need travel help, check out other recent posts:

Here's a listing of what we've found so far regarding Balls:



January 18, 2009

California State Society's Presidential Inaugural Luncheon and Fashion Show

11:30 AM

The Ritz-Carlton Washington, DC 1150

22nd St. NW



Aloha Inaugural Ball

Marriott Wardman Park Hotel

2660 Woodley Rd. NW

Tickets: $250

Information: alohainauguralball@gmail.com **This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it**

Organized by former Obama campaign workers, the ball will carry out a Hawaiian theme with island entertainers and hula dancers, reminiscent of the president-elect' s years in Hawaii.


January 19, 2009


Arkansas State Society Inaugural Party for Razorbacks

The Washington Court Hotel

525 New Jersey Avenue NW


Information: 202-329-6711


Sunshine and Stars (Florida State Society)

Corcoran Gallery of Art

500 17th Street NW

Information: 202-298-7710



Land of Lincoln Inaugural Gala (Illinois State Society)

Reception and dinner at 5:30 PM, gala follows from 8:30 PM-1:30 AM

Renaissance Washington DC Hotel

999 9th St. NW

Tickets: $400, $200 for gala only

Information: 703-451-1747


Themed "Illinois Heroes," the State Society's inaugural gala highlights the many magnificent cities, towns, riverfronts, and historical sites of Illinois.


Indiana Inaugural Ball

6 PM

Omni Shoreham Hotel

2500 Calvert Street NW

Tickets: $295 before Dec. 19, $350 after Dec. 19;

reserved tables$7500 before Dec. 19, $9000 after Dec. 19


202-463-4262

Featured talent includes the Singing Hoosiers from Indiana University and the Donati Orchestra.


Bluegrass Ball (Kentucky State Society)

6:30 PM

Marriott Wardman Park Hotel

2660 Woodley Rd. NW

Members: $175

Information: 202-399-2032


Chef Michael Paley from Louisville's acclaimed Proof of Main restaurant will serve as executive chef for the inaugural gala.


Land of Enchantment Inaugural Ball (New Mexico State Society)

Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian

4th St. & Independence Ave. SW

Information: 505-463-3908



North Carolina Society Inaugural Ball

Marriott Wardman Park Hotel

2660 Woodley Rd. NW



Black Tie & Boots Inaugural Ball (Texas State Society)

Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center

201 Waterfront St.National Harbor, MD 20745

Information: 301-809-8989



History in the Making: "A Dream & A Change" Inaugural Ball

The Babyboomer Professionals

Hyatt Regency Washington

400 New Jersey Ave. NW

Tickets: $175 before Dec. 5, $199 after Dec. 5

Information: boomerprofessionals@yahoo.com **This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it**


HBCU Inaugural Gala Ball

Historically Black Colleges and Universities

8 PM-1 AM

Sequoia at Washington Harbor

3000 K St. NW



Heroes Red, White, and Blue Inaugural Ball



International Conservation Caucus Foundation Inauguration Gala ICC Foundation

6:30 for VIP and general receptions, 7:30 dinner

Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium
Tickets: $2,500

Information: 202-471-4222



Pearl Gala, Asian Americans for Obama

7 PM-midnight

Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC Hotel

1330 Maryland Ave. SW

Tickets: $250


Guests are also invited to attend a morning conference about voting results, the political appointment process and the legislative issues for the next Congress.


January 20, 2009


Spirit of Hope Inaugural Ball


Tickets: $175/person, $300/couple

The "Spirit of Hope" Inaugural Ball sponsored by The Empowerment Network (http://www.tenpower.org/), Amourai Organique (http://www.luvamourai.com/) and Point Bird Productions(http://www.therhythmofstruggle.com/)) will be held at the prestigious Patterson House Mansion (The Washington Club)


Inaugural Parade Brunch (New York State Society)

11 AM-4 PM

Willard Intercontinental Hotel

1401 Pennsylvania Ave.

Tickets: Member $155, Non-members: $180

Information: 301-330-6197



State Society of Arizona Inaugural Ball

8 pm-midnight

The Historical Society of Washington, DC801 K St. NW

Tickets: Single:$175, Couple: $300, Family of 4: $650

Information: 202-777-2612



Garden State Inaugural Gala

7:30-11:30 PM

Washington Court Hotel

525 New Jersey Ave. NW

Tickets: $100 single, $175 per couple; Non-members: $125 single, $200 per couple

Information: 202-333-5750


The gala features a performance by Bruce Springsteen tribute band, B Street Band.


A Night of Stars (Pennsylvania State Society)

Ritz-Carlton Washington, DC22nd and M Sts. NW

Tickets: $150 before Jan. 1, $200 on or after Jan. 1

Information: 703-415-0344


Fox News' Tony Perkins will emcee the event, which features performing artists from Mark Rivera Entertainment.


The George Washington University Inaugural Ball

8 PM-midnight

Omni Shoreham Hotel

2500 Calvert St. NW

Information: 202-994-1600


The gala celebration features live bands, talent from the GW performance community, and televised Inauguration Day coverage.


Human Rights Campaign Equality Ball

Renaissance Mayflower Hotel

1143 New Hampshire Ave.

Information: http://www.hrc.org/

Guests to include Melissa Etheridge, Rufus Wainwright and Cyndi Lauper


Bytes & Books Inaugural Ball

National Coalition for Technology in Education and Training

Folger Shakespeare Library

201 East Capitol St. SE



11th American Indian Inaugural Ball American Indian Society (AIS) of Washington, D.C.

Hyatt Regency Crystal City

2799 Jefferson Davis Highway

Arlington, VA



Unity in Service Inaugural Ball Unity in Service

Trinity University

125 Michigan Ave. NE

Tickets: $90 standard, $120 preferred before Dec. 20, $110 and $150 after Dec. 20



Inaugural Purple Ball

Eracism Foundation

8 PM

The Fairmont Washington, DC Hotel

2401 M St. NW

Information: tickets@inauguralpurpleball.com **This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it**

Guests will enjoy fine champagne and cuisine served in a purple velvet-draped ballroom; the host committee includes notable names like Amy Brenneman, Ashley Judd , Brad Silberling, Josh Lucas, Kate Walsh and Patricia Arquette.


Change Has Come Inaugural Gala

The Babyboomer Professionals

Hamilton Crowne Plaza Hotel

1001 14th St. NW

Tickets: $125 before Dec. 5, $150 after Dec. 5

Information: boomerprofessionals@yahoo.com **This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it**


Demand in DC: Applauding the Empowerment of People Thru Art, Film, and Music

Black Cat

1811 14th St. NW

Tickets: $10

Information: 202-667-7960



The Creative Coalition Gala Inaugural Ball

9 PM

Harman Center for the Arts

610 F St. NW

Tickets: Bronze package (2 tickets): $10,000



Young and Powerful Black Tie Gala and Awards Ceremony

L'Enfant Plaza Hotel
400 L'Enfant Plaza, SW

Tickets: $125, includes open bar from 8pm - 9pm, heavy Hors D'oeuvres and live music


Dine, dance and toast President-elect Obama's victory with young professionals from across the nation.


Monday, December 1, 2008

Girl's Night IN - QVC Shopping

Need more excuses to shop? Today is Cyber Monday and QVC is offering Girl's Night In specials, on Monday, Dec.1 from 3-6pm, both on air and online. Shop for clothing and accessories, while learning cool party tips for throwing a fab holiday bash!

Hostess with the Mostess
Join us for Girls' Night! On Monday, December 1 from 3 – 6 p.m. ET, get prepped on throwing the best fete with pro party tips from program hosts and their girlfriends. Worked up an appetite after shopping jewelry, fashion, beauty, and accessories? Visit our Holiday Recipe Swap and share your favorites, too.

Enjoy!