Its been a while...

Okay, so I know its been a while since I last blogged... Its certainly not due to a decrease in my social life. Its really just a testament to my ever-increasing workload. But after watching some of my closest friends launch blogs (Table for Two and then some) and (Visions of a V.I.P.), I've been inspired to get back in the game. So, let's see how long I can keep it up.

Laissez les bon temps roulez!

Family Reunion Sunday Brunch

On Sunday, October 25, 2009, the Phi Sigma Pi, Alpha Tau Chapter Endowment Fund, Inc. hosted its inaugural Family Reunion Sunday Brunch at Phillip's Flagship on the Washington, DC waterfront. The event ended the Howard University homecoming weekend and gave friends a chance to reminisce about good times while supporting a fantastic cause. The proceeds from this event went toward scholarships for DC area students pursuing a college education.

Howard homecoming is as sartorially savvy as Fashion Week in New York, and this event was no different. Brunch attendees donned big hats, bow ties, blazers and bags that made bold statements. It was great to see young ladies and gentlemen revert to wearing their Sunday's best when attending brunch.

The greatest thing about fall clothing is the ability to explore your tactile senses. Suede,

corduroy, velvet and moleskin are some of my favorites and all of them could be found at this brunch. This crew stuck with warm autumn colors, yet managed to stand out with their fall fabrics.

Esquire1911 tip: Although each charity fundraiser has its own flair, I suggest adding a silent auction or upscale raffle, when possible. Not only are they an opportunity to raise more money during the event, they keep the guests entertained and guarantee that everyone will stay until the end.

This Sunday Brunch fundraiser featured a Chinese auction with amazing prizes such as an autographed Washington Redskin jersey and Microsoft software. However, the most sought after prize was this unique painting donated by the Rachel D. Crouch Art Gallery which receives the Society Pages Spotlight. The generous artist is a Howard alumna and captivated the brunch attendees with her portrayal of President Obama and his interplay with the black church. The painting helped make the fundraiser a huge success.

Konclave 2009

On August 4-8, 2009, the distinguished gentlemen of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated hosted their 79th Grand Chapter Meeting (known as "konclave") in Washington, D.C. Although the event was anchored at the Washington Wardman Park Hotel, the Kappas certainly painted the entire town red. The konclave itinerary included a family picnic at Howard University, a golf outing, yacht cruise, and both gospel and R&B concert. During the closing business session, the fraternity revealed its new partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters and renewed its commitment to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The Society Pages Spotlight goes to this amazing cake display designed exclusively for the Kappa konclave. The cake is a replica of the fraternity's coat of arms and was showcased in the lobby of the hotel for all of the event attendees. The dessert was delicious and appropriately flavored in red velvet.

Esquire1911 tip: Gentlemen, as you attend black-tie events, opt for a bow tie instead of a straight tie. Since most men do not normally wear bow ties, its an opportunity to change up your routine.

The gentlemen of Kappa Alpha Psi are certainly true believers in the bow tie (as seen in this photo taken at the konclave formal banquet).

Its a true sign of a gentleman to hand tie a bow tie. In the video below, GQ Style Correspondent Brett Fahlgren demonstrates the art of tying one. Remember, your hand tied bow tie does not have to look perfect. The imperfection of the tie gives it character. As GQ Magazine says, "your bow tie should not have botox."

Video: How to Tie a Bow Tie