Many of our clients work with members of Congress on important issues that relate to what their members do and how their members impact the economy and our citizens.
But, it can be difficult to get face time with members of Congress. So how do you get their attention and have some fun at the same time? Well, if you’re the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), you throw an ice cream party on the hottest day of the year.
Okay, I get that IDFA has an advantage. Their members make and donate delicious, mouth-watering flavors of creamy sugar, and their friends at the American Beverage Association donate the root beer for the floats. Who can say no to that? Not the people on the Hill, that’s for sure.
On June 21, 2012, IDFA hosted the 30th annual Capitol Hill Ice Cream Party — the most popular event on the Hill. Young staffers and members of Congress alike showed up to stand in line in the 100 degree heat for a free treat. Looking at the sear-sucker suits that were as prolific as the painted faces of the kids who joined in the fun was enjoyable entertainment. And watching out to see if one of our elected officials gets a brain freeze in the process is just cool whip on the sundae.
You may be thinking, how can my association compete with ice cream? Well, unless your members manufacture something like chocolate or beer, you can’t. But that doesn’t mean you can’t throw a great event and get those members of Congress and their staff to come to you. Here’s where we can get creative. Tell us what you think would be a unique and exciting event that would draw a crowd on the Hill.
In the meantime, here are some photos from our client’s big party. Congratulations IDFA and thanks for the sherbet and root beer float—it was all very yummy!
Cute baby gets brain freeze: