Over 150 guests were treated to a truly extraordinary evening on May 2nd as the Park Hyatt Washington hosted our May monthly meeting. Adding a new kick to the networking reception was the addition of the long awaited Cake Decorating Competition which was rescheduled from its original February 14th ice storm date at the Stephen Decatur House. Participants Devlin DiBitetto of Hollin Hall Pastry, Janice Harrison of Occasional Cakes, Patricia Collette of Patty Cakes and Megen Ferry of Ridgewells showed event professionals of all disciplines what goes on behind the pastry pantry walls to decorate their cakes. Wonderful vocal entertainment was provided by Entertainment Exchange and exciting step and repeat photography was provided by Extreme Graphics.

Guests then entered a magically draped and lit dinner space, finding a seat at tables situated around a circular stage in the middle of the room. Gorgeous design and décor work was provided by Kelly Jenkins of Capital Décor with support from DC Rentals. The first course was served as opera performed by Prince of Entertainment Exchange filled the room, an entertainment twist to the evening. Following an entrée of Sea Bass and Prawn Stew, the decorated cakes were revealed and guests voted on their favorite design. The winner, an ISES first timer, was Janice Harrison of Occasional Cakes.

Following the competition, guests experienced a presentation by industry veteran Jack Hartzman who discussed the need to not only reinvent yourself in a rapidly evolving industry, but the importance of involving and teaching the leaders of tomorrow so they can continue the tradition of excellence the DC Chapter of ISES has become known for.

Following Jack's visual finale, guests were sent on a hunt of sorts for the sweet dessert provided by our pastry chefs. In order to take full advantage of all parts of the newly renovated Park Hyatt Washington Hotel, each cake was served in a different space of the hotel including the Tea Cellar, where cake was pared with vintage teas offered by the Park Hyatt and several hotel suites where the pairings ranged from hand carved ice cream to cognac. As guests got "comfortable" in the Park Hyatt's new beds the evening ended on a high note. Lots of ISES members and guests were treated to an evening a bit out of the norm from the average monthly meetings.

Special thanks are extended to Amal Zaari, chef Brian McBride and the entire staff at the Park Hyatt Washington Hotel, Len DePas of Len DePas photography, Fingers In Ink printing, Washington Talent Photo and Video for taping the event, Fred Elting from Frost Lighting, Kelly Jenkins from Capitol Décor, Pat Richitt from Entertainment Exchange, Liz Waylan from DC Rental and all of the guests who made the evening possible.

Special Thanks to Our Vendors!