DDC started out with an incredible first event with a party of vivacious VIP guests sponsored by Kate Valder with Architectural Ceramics and Gini Phipps with DH Companies. We were lucky to welcome Jennifer Farris with Bandura Design and Michelle Acevedo with MAD Hospitality Studio as our very first seasoned professionals. The event was hosted at Sequioa in Georgetown in their main dining room with a perfect view of the sunset over the Potomac River.
Location: Sequoia
Meet our Sponsors!
Kate Valder | Architessa – “I am an extroverted, creative spirit, who loves the technical side of projects. I enjoy working through the details of projects and acting as a resource for my clients. My background in, and passion for design has kept me in this industry. I am grateful for my time as a designer because I understand the processes and challenges that come along with this role. At Architessa, an Architectural Ceramics brand, I can create, assist in or fulfill you and your client’s vision by helping you select product for your next tile or stone project.”
Gini Phipps | DH Companies – “Gini joined the DH Companies family in 2019 as Business Development Manager. Gini defines herself as a creative hybrid having completed advanced training in Corporate Communication, Hospitality Sales and Design. All three areas have contributed to her creative competence and have helped her drive projects from conception to fruition. She is a firm believer that any issue can be solved with a cup of coffee and a clear perspective.”
Meet our Seasoned Professionals!
Jennifer Farris | Bandura Design – “I am a highly motivated designer with one goal: to change the world. I don’t want to change the way the world looks; there are plenty of super talented and creative people who can and do handle that, every day. I want to change the way the design world works, starting with the design studio, considerably the heart of a design career. After working in a variety of design studios over the first 15 years of my career, I started Bandura Design. With this, I sought out a way to create a healthy, balanced lifestyle for a creative team of designers doing what they love every day, while still maintaining a sustainable and successful business. I want to engage with the rising generation of leaders in thought and design to find ways to meet that goal.”
Michelle Acevedo | MAD Hospitality Studio – “Michelle is the Principal/ Owner of MAD Hospitality Studio, LLC, a Washington DC area interior design firm offering services to the Hospitality industry since 2012. Prior to starting her own firm, she was V.P. of Design at Tishman Hotel Corp., a NYC Hotel Owner/ Developer company. Her expertise includes a broad range of Hospitality projects, combining effective design solutions and project management skills, while keeping the Owner’s best interest at the forefront. With over 25 years of experience, including positions at Gensler and BBGM, Ms. Acevedo offers specialized design services leading projects through all phases, providing a start-to-finish, comprehensive and effective, yet creative design approach.”
