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My mom is a math teacher in the suburbs of Buffalo, NY. I run a strategic communications firm in Washington, DC. We don’t share a profession, but her life lessons were a guiding force when I opened the Curley Company ten years ago and again this year when I published our business values. I can still hear her voice….

Treat others as you would like to be treated.

The golden rule and Mom’s number one lesson too. My take is that even if you ignore the others, this value will steer you right. Every time.

Do what you say you will do.

If you say you are going to do it, then do it. Mom meant show up at tennis practice if you join the tennis team, but this value is also at the core of our company. While it seems like a no-brainer, as I spend more time in the business world, I find it to be a differentiator.

Details are important.

When it comes to getting it right, I learned from a pro; Mom had a new “to-do” list every day to keep it all planned and organized. Now, I think of Mom’s list and smile as we pull off the multitude of details that make a client event great.

Do your best.

Even if its calculus (you know, hard). In our office, we strive every day to live this value and give our best for each client.

Choose to be happy.

At 14, I couldn’t wait to drive, but Mom said that driving wouldn’t make me happy—the only thing that would make me happy is me. So I make the choice every day. I choose to be happy. And, I choose to surround myself with people with whom I enjoy working—clients, employees, and partners.

Make things happen.

Our mission at Curley Company is to “get it done.” This is another choice you can make each day. I’m amazed at how much of life and business is just about choosing to get it done.

Don’t wear white pants and drink red wine.
Exactly! We all know what happens eventually.

Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. I really did listen…

Museums, historical homes, conference centers, hotels and found spaces—we’re certainly not without a wide variety of venues here in DC. In honor of our 10^th Anniversary, here are ten that we’ve been buzzing about lately, in alphabetical order:

District Architecture Center

A wall of windows facing Seventh Street NW and glass meeting rooms allows light and energy into this flexible space featuring state-of-the-art technology. Home to the Washington Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, the DAC is great for large receptions and can section off for smaller meetings.

Gaylord National

Service included! The Gaylord National handled a client’s multi-day 1600 guest event with attention and a smile. What impresses us most is the desire to learn and improve their already-stellar service – they are always looking for new ways to grow as a team.

The Hamilton Live

This new live music venue can handle more than just bands. With sound and lighting toys, warm, ambient lighting, and a full kitchen on-premise, the Hamilton Live is a great one-stop-shop for all event needs.

JW Marriott

The guest experience at Marriott’s flagship property is flawless. Each guest is treated as if he or she were Mr. Marriott himself. From the valet greeting you on the front drive to the customized details on the dessert buffet, you are taken care of each and every time you visit.

Long View Gallery

Get your art ON! We love that this urban gallery space was constructed with events in mind – the 5,000 square foot warehouse includes a catering kitchen and distinctive lighting. It’s great when a new space anticipates the needs of special events in addition to their primary use.

Newseum

Sleek and modern, the space is impressive, and the staff at the Newseum makes the experience just as smooth. With downright brilliant ideas and can-do attitudes, it’s amazing to watch all the pieces come together in this beautiful museum.

Omni Shoreham Hotel

Step back in time to classic Washington when men tipped their hats and women got “dressed” for dinner. I always expect to turn the corner and find a couple strolling down the Bird Cage Walk in black tie attire! Every event here feels truly special.

Ronald Reagan Building for International Trade

As the sun sets and the “we-all-wear-the-same-colored-shirt” tourists head home, the stars rise and transform the airy Atrium to a magical place, making it hard to believe you’re in a federal workplace!

United States Institute of Peace

Wow. Just WOW. The soaring glass ceiling and tall windows let in the sun and stars with a great view toward the Potomac River. USIP is set up for small meetings around the perimeter of their atrium, as well as high-tech presentations in their auditorium. Who will be our first event there?

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company

Woolly Mammoth’s space just like the work they produce: edgy, bold, and FUN. Full disclosure: as the former Special Events Manager at Woolly, I’m totally biased, but I’m not alone!  Corporate and social events alike are catching on to this hidden gem in the Penn Quarter, taking advantage of the raw look as an opportunity for creativity with event design.