Flawless Friday

White House State Dinner in honor of Mexican President Felipe

The Decor: Above and Below

The State Dinner Menu

Jicama with Oranges, Grapefruit, and Pineapple
Citrus Vinaigrette
Wine: Ulises Valdez Chardonnay 2007 “Russian River”

Herb Green Ceviche of Hawaiian Opah
Sesame-Cilantro Cracker

Oregon Wagyu Beef in Oaxacan Black Mole
Black Bean Tamalon and Grilled Green Beans
Wine: Herrera Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 “Selección Rebecca”

Chocolate-Cajeta Tart
Toasted Homemade Marshmallows
Graham Cracker Crumble and Goat Cheese Ice Cream
Wine: Mumm Napa “Carlos Santana Brut” N/V

Executed without a hitch.

courtesy

Party's Over!

White House Social Secretary, Desiree Rogers is reportedly leaving her post next month, fourteen months and 330 events into her position, to "explore opportunities in the corporate world". A successful Chicago businesswoman and socialite, Ms. Rogers was the first Black woman to hold the position of social secretary and a close associate of President and Mrs. Obama. She came under fire in November 2009 when Tareq and Michaele Salahi crashed the Obama's first White House state dinner. Her critics characterize her as a spotlight seeker who maintained a very high profile including appearances in fashion spreads early on in the administration, and inserted herself as a guest during the dinner instead of fulfilling her responsibilities as social secretary. Of course when you're as fabulous and stylish as she, it would be hard to disappear into the shadows.

My number one rule as a planner is to take care of business-you can't relax until the event is over. You are being paid because of your organization skills and attention to detail. When the event is over-kick your feet up and have a cocktail. If you are managing an event-manage it. A planner should stay behind the scenes handling every aspect of the event detail and be prepared for every contingency. You'll receive your kudos for a expertly managed event-once it's over. It's a shame her tenure ended with a cloud over it.

Just goes to show that even or especially in the White House, you can't let your guard down for a minute. I wish her well.