Our Best Events of 2019
The Board of Trade hosts a lot of events throughout the year, many at unique and memorable venues. Here are a few of our favorites from 2019. Which ones did you attend?
100th Mid-Winter Dinner at the Washington National Cathedral
March 12, 2019
The Mid-Winter Dinner is an annual Board of Trade tradition dating back to 1919. Unlike your typical D.C. area black-tie affair, the Mid-Winter Dinner has traditionally been speech-free to give our members more time to enjoy each other. The Washington National Cathedral has proven to be a perfect venue for this elegant event, so we are returning in 2020.
A decadent three-course meal and gorgeous decor were provided by Ridgewells Catering. This special event was sponsored by Kaiser Permanente, Washington Nationals, Children’s National, WGL, Verizon, Cigna, Bank of America, Smart City Media, SunTrust, Bechtel, Capital One, Wells Fargo, BB&T, and Pepco Holdings.
Smart Region Partnership Agreement Signing at the Capital Area Food Bank
March 22, 2019
The Capital Area Food Bank distributes food for over 30 million meals each year through 450 partner organizations. It is a lifeline to many families in the DMV and its facility would impress any logistics expert. The food bank was an inspiring backdrop for our partnership agreement signing ceremony with the Consortium of Universities and Council of Governments. This event was the official launch of our smart region movement, which has since been branded Connected DMV.
Fall Business Classic at Audi Field
September 19, 2019
The Fall Business Classic is always a lively networking event and last year we sold out with over 400 attendees. Even members who don’t follow soccer loved the energetic, indoor-outdoor venue at Audi Field, home of D.C. United.
A selection of stadium-themed food and beverage stations were provided by Ridgewells Catering. Capital One is the presenting sponsor of the Fall Business Classic and additional sponsors include D.C. United, Akridge, MGM National Harbor, Heineken, Miles & Stockbridge, and Southwest Airlines.
Salon Dinner in the United Airlines Hangar at Dulles Airport
October 22, 2019
When United Airlines and Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) teamed up to host this dinner, they wanted to give their guests a memorable experience—and we think they nailed it.
This dinner was sponsored by United Airlines and MWAA. A three-course meal and sky-themed place-settings and decor were provided by Geppetto Catering. (Interested in hosting a salon dinner of your own to build relationships with target contacts? Let us know!)
Executive Breakfast at Ben’s Chili Bowl
November 21, 2019
Ben’s Chili Bowl is known for more than half-smokes. Founded in 1958, this iconic eatery has played a big role in D.C. African American history and community organizing. A small group of Board of Trade members were treated to a generous breakfast and interesting history lesson which included a walking tour of nearby murals.
Founders’ Lunch at the Decatur House
December 17, 2019
To celebrate the Board of Trade’s 130th anniversary and wrap up a big year, our four remaining founding member companies hosted lunch at the historic Decatur House. Chef Roland Mesnier told enthralling stories from his 26 years as the White House executive pastry chef.
This special event was sponsored by Bank of America, Pepco Holdings, Washington Gas, and Washington Post. A seasonal three-course meal was provided by Ridgewells Catering.
This list represents only a fraction of our full 2019 event calendar. On average, the Board of Trade hosts at least one event per week! From intimate gatherings that allow for focused and thoughtful conversation to large parties, Board of Trade events offer something for everyone.
Looking Ahead to 2020
Our events team is reaching even higher in 2020, curating a calendar of events that are sure to be memorable and, of course, fun. Check our event calendar often, and make sure you are on our mailing list and follow us on social media so that you receive exclusive member-only invitations.
Sponsorship opportunities are available and can be matched to your business objectives. To learn more, contact George Longwell, VP of Engagement.
Thank You, Events Team!
Many of the Board of Trade’s staff members pitch in to make our events happen, but believe it or not only a few staff members did most of the work. Thank you Najia Hasan, Programs and Events Director, and Michelle Poch, Programs Assistant, for your incredible hard work and creativity!
We are also grateful to Ashley Desing who served as our Programs and Events Director until transitioning roles and joining Connected DMV in the spring of 2019. She set the bar high!
This year we welcomed a new staff member to the events team, Elyse Siravo, Programs & Events Coordinator. Say hello when you see her at an upcoming event!
If you have questions or feedback for this dynamic team, you can reach them at [email protected].
