The Hay-Adams Hotel in Washington, DC has a rich history and an incredible view of the White House! When it opened its doors in 1928, the Hay-Adams hosted luminaries such as Amelia Earhart, Ethel Barrymore, and Charles Lindbergh.  With a rooftop space overlooking Washington’s most famous landmarks, elegant event spaces, and luxurious guest rooms, the Hay-Adams is a wonderful place to have a wedding.  We are pleased to have Alison Okobi, Director of Catering, share a little more about her hotel!

image via Steve Canning Photography

CL: It is always so interesting to hear how people began working in the wedding industry! What led you to work in events at the Hay-Adams?

AO: I had actually worked with Hyatt and Ritz-Carlton before joining The Hay-Adams.  I actually fell in love with The Hay-Adams when I was planning my own wedding and then they called me to join their team.  I think it is a great testimonial to our brides that I looked at all the beautiful homes and museums in Washington and selected the what I feel is a truly unique location in The Hay-Adams.

CL: What makes the Hay-Adams such a special place to have a wedding?

AO: Rich history, quiet elegance and breathtaking view.

CL:  What is your favorite space in the hotel to have events?

AO: The view from our Roof Terrace is simply the best in the city.

CL:  I couldn’t agree more…The White House is just across the park! We’ve seen TLC’s “Masters of Reception” and how crazy it can get behind the scenes. How do you keep everything running so smoothly?

AO: We have a very talented culinary team and organized banquet department.  They provide excellent service so we don’t have too many stressful scenes.

image by Freed Photography

CL: What do you think is a must for all wedding receptions?

AO: A smile on your face.  Enjoy it and don’t let the stress get to you.

CL: Excellent advice! Share with us one technique you use to relax (or relax your clients) on the day of the wedding?

AO: Just re-assure them we are taking of the details, stay calm and drink champagne.

CL: Champagne is the perfect way to stay calm – a nice drink and a reminder that it’s a celebration. What are some of your favorite details or trends you have seen this year?

AO: Keeping things seasonal and local – I love to see cheeses from local farms and the use of Barboursville Virginia wines to set the tone of an affair.  Also, seasonal elements in floral – persimmons and wheat to give texture to fall floral arrangements.

CL: What is your favorite first dance song?

AO: The Way you Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra . . . a true classic!

CL: Where do you stand: the Rolling Stones or the Beatles?

AO: I actually love both. The Beatles are amazing but I could listen to The Rolling Stones “You Can’t Always Get What you Want” on repeat all afternoon.

CL: A great song by the Stones!

image by Artful Weddings by Sachs Photography

 

 

Tags: Event Sites, Hotel, The Hay-Adams, Washington DC Hotel, Washington DC Wedding Vendors, Wedding Venue

This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 10th, 2010 at 1:00 am and is filed under Washington DC Wedding Vendors. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.