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MEET THE TEAM

ABOUT HQO

The HQO Venue sits at the edge of the Anacostia River in Navy Yard, within walking distance of D.C.’s premier sporting and event stadiums, Nat’s Park, and Audi Field. This unique venue features a sleek, modern façade of undulating glass and three stories of innovative, and contemporary indoor/outdoor space. The venue is LEED Platinum+ certified, so you can feel great about hosting an event with minimal environmental impact.
 
Our waterfront venue features over 30,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, with a rooftop boasting 360-degree views of the city. Whether you’re searching for a spot to host your wedding or a corporate gala, our flexible event space can be catered to your unique occasion.

The first floor can host 100–300-person receptions and includes a patio with outdoor event space right on the Anacostia River. The rooftop features views of the Anacostia River on one side and our growing Navy Yard community on the other.
 
The second floor features a boardroom overlooking D.C.’s waterfront. The boardroom is great for formal dining and conferences or meetings. It can seat 160 guests and has an A/V system with a stand-alone projector, six simultaneous displays that require a computer with an HDMI connection, free high-speed internet, and WiFi accessibility. The atrium is great for receptions, buffets, and conferences and features six break-out rooms. This space accommodates up to 300 standing guests.
 
Rental fees help support DC Water. We are a nonprofit organization, created by DC Water with a mission to relieve the strain on DC Water ratepayers by generating revenue and cost savings as a result. 

Lovesha Graham

Senior Director, Operations

Lovesha's extensive background as an executive assistant for over 20 years, including 12 at DC Water, showcases her expertise in managing complex tasks and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. In addition to her responsibilities in running the day-to-day operations of Blue Drop, Lovesha also holds the oversight of the HQO Event program. With her in-depth knowledge of the facility and her dedication to providing exceptional service, she is well-equipped to assist clients in booking their events and ensuring their success. Lovesha enjoys working out and spending time with her daughters and puppy in her spare time.

Adam Lawrence

ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

Adam is a graduate of Morgan State University with a bachelors in Health Education and a concentration in Community Health. He previously worked at National Institutes of Health for 12 years. Adam is an assistant football coach for Ron Brown Preparatory School in NE, DC. He enjoys watching and playing sports and spending time with his wife and two sons. Adam is responsible for the administrative processes, functions, and activities of Blue Drop and supports special projects across the organization.

Kelly Trimble

Director of Events

Kelly Trimble has over 10 years of experience in event planning and project management. Prior to joining Blue Drop, Kelly worked for the Washington Nationals and D.C. United, running both gameday events and private events. As the Director of Events, Kelly is responsible for overseeing all aspects of private events including sales, marketing, and event execution for HQO Waterside. She is committed to helping the HQO Event program grow through providing high-level experiences to clients. When she’s not working, Kelly enjoys taking long walks with her dog, Scorchy Paws, and traveling to the beach with her family.

Raul Buddle

Event Coordinator

Raul is an experienced and versatile event coordinator with over 10 years of experience in the customer service and education industries. He is skilled in managing office operations. He is also an excellent communicator and problem solver with a proven track record of success. As an Event Coordinator at HQO Events, Raul is responsible for coordinating all aspects of events, from planning to execution and evaluation. Raul has a passion for life and bringing people together. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his dog Maison exploring the outdoors while mellowing out to R&B or Neo-Soul.

Terry Suggs

EVENT CAPTAIN

Terry is the onsite point of contact for event host/planners and all that is needed from start to finish of your event program. He has 22 years of combined experience in the catering and hospitality space. Terry is responsible for load in/load out procedures with caterers and their staff. As an avid golfer, Terry also enjoys local live sporting events and working out.

Make your next event a unique one at the new DC Water headquarters, HQO, in Navy Yard. Each of our event spaces offer stunning views of the Anacostia River.

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