Diplomats sharing cigars and secrets, statues stirring on pedestals and old Washington holding court once more. Meridian International Center’s 58th Annual Ball on Oct. 16 offered a glimpse into an era of American elegance that has all but faded from memory.
Celebrating America’s 250th year, the evening took its inspiration from the theme “An Evening of Americana,” transforming the historic Meridian House and its gardens into a tribute to the nation’s past.
As tradition dictates, the evening opened behind the grand doors of diplomatic residences across the capital, where more than 30 embassy dinners brought together distinguished guests before the festivities at Merdian’s campus off of 16th Street NW.
Ambassador Sir Christian Turner and Lady Claire Turner hosted at the British ambassador’s residence, while Serbian Ambassador Dragan Šutanovac welcomed guests for a pre-dinner reception at his residence. Across town, Armenia’s Narek Mkrtchyan entertained diplomatic, civic and business leaders over dinner at the country’s embassy, while Meridian’s historic White-Meyer House hosted a dinner of its own.
With dinner formalities concluded, guests made their way to Meridian House, where flags of nations from around the world lined the grand staircase, autumn florals adorned the banisters and chandeliers illuminated an impressive gathering of Washington’s most elite social circles.
Under the leadership of Ball Chairs Sarah and Ross Perot Jr., alongside Meridian CEO David Bohigian and Board of Trustees Chair Deborah Lehr, the evening was as much a celebration of American history as it was of international relations.
US Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Mrs. Chrissy Hagerty served as congressional co-chairs, alongside US Rep. April McClain Delaney (D-MD) and her husband, former Congressman John Delaney.
A re-creation of an old American streetscape featured Bohigian’s Apothecary, Perot’s General Store and Lehr’s Sweet Shop. Rumor has it the apothecary paid homage to relatives of Meridian CEO David Bohigian, whose family once operated such an establishment, while the sweet shop recalled the family history of Deborah Lehr.
Bartenders dressed in period-inspired costumes, while Benjamin Franklin and Betsy Ross made appearances as living statues. Fresh blueberry and apple pies offered a taste of classic Americana, and Abraham Lincoln happily obliged guests seeking a photograph.
Outside in the garden, the Constitution made a grand appearance, its familiar opening words, “We the People,” suspended above the festivities. And while the grandeur and music certainly set the tone, it was the characters of the Ball who set the scene.
Moldovan Ambassador Vladislav Kulminski offered a charming glimpse of the man behind the diplomatic title. Accompanied by his wife, Rodica Kulminski, the ambassador appeared thoroughly delighted to be spending the evening at her side. He plainly adores his wife, and after meeting the delightful Mrs. Kulminski, one can hardly blame him.
Moroccan Ambassador Youssef Amrani, as ever, was a friendly face among the diplomatic crowd, while Mexican Ambassador Roberto Lazzeri Montaño, who attended the Ball for the first time as ambassador, cut a particularly dapper figure, looking perfectly at home amid the evening’s old-world elegance.
Fashion provided its own form of diplomacy. Ambassador María Consuelo Araújo Castro, of Colombia, made a striking impression in an emerald satin gown with elegant fringe detailing. The Colombian delegation offered further examples of the country’s craftsmanship, with one embassy staff member wearing an elaborate overlay necklace by a Colombian jewelry designer. The intricate piece was a tribute to the country’s rich tradition of artistry.
Among some 700 guests, the evening brought together figures from across Washington. Senior administration officials mingled with diplomats and philanthropists while jazz filled the halls. Evening gowns swept across parquet floors, and gentlemen in tuxedos lingered over champagne and chocolates. Washington society was in its element.
The Meridian Ball has been a fixture of Washington’s social calendar since 1969, bringing together the best of the nation’s capital in support of Meridian International Center’s mission. Proceeds from the evening advance the nonpartisan nonprofit’s work fostering diplomacy through cultural exchange and providing solutions to global challenges.
This year’s Ball raised more than $2.6 million, marking one of its most successful fundraising years yet, and a remarkable leap from the $25,000 raised at its inaugural event in 1969.
The evening’s grandeur recalled an era of Washington society defined by grand houses, splendid parties and elaborate dress. It was a time when alliances were cultivated over cocktails and diplomacy was practiced not only across negotiating tables but also over dinners and dance floors.
For one evening, Meridian brought a little of that old Washington back to life.
