August 14, 2015

Columns and Cocktails at the National Arboretum

McNeese Thomas Group was honored to be the first event company permitted to produce a private dinner at the National Arboretum in Washington, DC.  On a spectacular spring evening, we took advantage of the Arboretum’s awe-inspiring beauty to create a dinner that our guests will long remember.  Working in concert with the fantastic caterers at Occasions, we planned a menu and tablescape that paid perfect homage to the National Arboretum’s grounds, history and mission.

After a full day of meetings in DC, guests arrived at the National Arboretum’s Capitol Columns, the highlight of the park.They enjoyed passed hors d’ouevres and a specialty drink, Elderflower  Cocktail (Champagne and Club Soda on the rocks, with a splash of St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, garnished with a twist of lemon). A delicious ode to the flora of the Arboretum, sipped surrounded by the beauty of the Ellipse Meadow!

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After cocktails, Guests boarded the National Arboretum tram for a private tour of the grounds, ending at the dinner’s location, the Herb Garden.

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Dinner was served on one long communal table.  The centerpieces of moss and natural plants reflected the natural beauty of the surroundings; each place setting consisted of a natural wooden charger, custom menu card and a gift of fresh herbs to take home.

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One Comment
  • Patricia Neleski
    10 February 2016

    Such charm, and a perfect way to bring people together in beauty and elegance! McNeese Thomas Group surpasses elegance in every event they create!