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How to be a VIP in DC

<p><i>The SELECT Card.</i></p>

SELECT

Washington, D.C. is a Mecca for politicians, executives of all industries, and international tastemakers. With premier restaurants, world-class hotels, luxury retailers, and elite events, The District is the ultimate playground for some of the world’s most powerful and influential people.

So how do you get into the inner circle of DC’s most exclusive spots? How can you receive complimentary cocktails at the most elite restaurants, obtain the most sought-after tickets to events, gain access to insider rates at luxury hotels and more? You join SELECT.

I was recently accepted into SELECT’s community. Prospective members apply for access citing basic biographical, career and education information as well as their general interests. If accepted (roughly 30-40% applicants are ultimately offered membership), members unlock exclusive rewards at an expansive list of premier partners ranging from top rated local restaurants to global hotel and retail brands like Hyatt and Brooks Brothers.  

MHGC

SELECT Partner hotel The Delano, South Beach, FL.

Each member carries a personalized SELECT card. This black metal card acts as an extension of any existing credit or debit card and can be used as such. In addition to your usual rewards, the SELECT card provides exclusive perks and experiences at thousands of SELECT partner locations.

A few noteworthy names on SELECT’s widespread list of partners include hotspots Masa 14, Boqueria, and Toro Toro as well as top nightlife venues, The Huxley and Eden. In addition to dining and nightlife benefits, SELECT provides exclusive rates at a variety of travel and lifestyle partners including Morgans Hotel Group (Mondrian LA, Delano South Beach, and more), BirchBox, Bliss Spas, and Equinox. They even offer members unlisted rates on tickets to the Washington Wizards and Capitals.

Richard Sandoval

Specialty sushi at SELECT Partner restaurant, Masa 14.

SELECT allows members to connect at events such as menu tastings, charity fashion shows, and rooftop soirées. These events foster the camaraderie of the community as well as serve as prime networking opportunities for like-minded professionals. To celebrate their DC launch, SELECT rented a mansion on Embassy Row. Other member events included a private members-only press box at a Washington Wizards game and a wine tasting event. I recently attended the SELECT White House Correspondents’ Dinner after party at The Huxley. Members enjoyed a private open bar at one of the DC’s trendiest nightlife venues.

I had the opportunity to chat with several members to see why Washingtonians are flocking to SELECT. Callan McCauley, one of SELECT’s newest members, was excited about the community and events noting, “I loved meeting other social and ambitious professionals at the private press box at the Wizards game. It was a great event and the perfect crowd of people.”

Guest of a Guest

Members enjoy a private open bar celebrating the WHCD at SELECT Partner, The Huxley.

Others were intrigued by the rewards. SELECT member Evan Bloomberg loved the dining options and concierge service. “The SELECT Concierge always has the perfect spot for me and my girlfriend to go out. They’ve even arranged an anniversary trip for us you can’t beat the service they provide.” SELECT also appeals to the jetsetters. Member Edgard Izaguirre likes being able to take advantage of SELECT benefits around the country saying, “I’m always bouncing between DC, New York, LA and Miami, so it’s awesome knowing I can use SELECT in each of these cities.”

SELECT members represent a diverse group of social and influential professionals. Politicians, tech entrepreneurs, fashionistas and celebrities such as NBA champion Tony Parker, Victoria Secret model Vita Sidorkina, and DJ Willy Monfret have all joined the community. You too could be a part of this exclusive community and make the nation’s capital your playground.

Learn more about SELECT and apply for membership.

Jasmine Niernberger

Jasmine is a business and startup consultant. She loves startups, technology, and lifestyle services. ...(Read More)

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