"We've been assured we're getting everything we ordered," he said.
There is plenty of activity beyond official events. Local florists and caterers are working overtime. But competitive advantage makes them as secretive about their clients and plans as the inaugural committee.
(Julia Ewan -- The Washington Post)
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Homan, a veteran of seven inaugurations, says the occasion is not a time for "gilding the lily" or going over the top. In fact, for the Clinton inaugurations, provisions were downright stingy: bowls of pretzels and finger food served in plastic boxes.
"Historically, it's been festive, but festive in a lot of different directions," Homan said.
Mark Michael, co-owner of Occasions, has catered three inaugurations and will be providing sustenance for at least 15 private parties along the parade route. He views Thursday as a chili, beer and hot chocolate day.
"People aren't trying to out-formal each other," Michael said. "They're just trying to make it fun and engaging. It's a long afternoon."
Andrew Gerstel, executive vice president of Catering by Windows, will send 350 staffers "scampering" between parties Thursday. Fresh from a conference with his chef, he sized up the event's design potential based on four previous inaugurations.
"What you're celebrating is a little bit more mundane than a Mardi Gras," he said. "What sticks out in my mind is the awe-inspiring setting of the parade route."
Washington architecture makes a distinguished statement, from the U.S. Capitol dome to the White House. But chefs are adding another touch. Gerstel said partygoers at the Folger Shakespeare Library, Corcoran Gallery of Art and D.A.R. building will be nibbling on cowboy boots, stars, flags and elephants. Amid the predictable red, white and blue bunting, political cookies stand out as inspired graphics on this ceremonial occasion.
Buttleworth is doing what he can to make the inaugural settings both conservative and conversation pieces. Tomorrow, he will head to a Southeast warehouse to prepare models of cultivated flower arrangements, which volunteers will copy. He has ordered the striped tablecloths at the National Building Museum to be placed on a diagonal throughout the Great Hall, like a giant stripe. He hopes the 1,700 people seated for dinner there will appreciate such subtle details.
"After the president leaves, you're sitting and eating a wonderful dinner," he said. "A lot of people don't know each other at these tables. It gives them something to talk about."
