by guest contributor Tamara Buchwald
Photo credit: Courtesy of TIME
Following the 2025 White House Correspondents’ Dinner, TIME magazine lit up the night with one of the weekend’s most talked-about events—a spectacular after party hosted at the Swiss Ambassador’s Residence in Washington, DC. Ambassador Heckner and Dr. Macconi welcomed an elite crowd of journalists, politicians, artists and celebrities who made their way past ivy-covered gates and into a dreamlike landscape that fused diplomacy with disco decadence.
Guests stepped onto a long, elegant red carpet that stretched like a ribbon of glamour toward the Swiss Ambassador’s residence, the buzz of anticipation in the spring air. The entrance gave way to a massive bar in the center of the room, bathed in moody blues and soft golds, where sleek lounge seating invited guests to unwind in style. Iconic TIME Magazine covers dangled from the ceiling like a gallery of modern history—an artful nod to journalism’s past and present casting a nightclub vibe. Once you entered, the initial photo opportunity of the evening was in front of life size time magazines or massive white letters spelling T – I – M – E. Adding to the otherwise effortlessly chic scene, were breathtaking floating orbs, in a reflecting pool that provided a zen moment in this electric atmosphere. Pulsing with color and kinetic visuals, all these setting a surreal tone from the moment guests arrived.
Notable guests arrived in droves, impeccably dressed. The guest list included actors, Jason Issacs (The White Lotus), Kevin O’Leary (Shark Tank), and Michael Chiklis (The Shield), media personalities Dana Bash (CNN), Anna Palmer (Punchbowl News), Senator Amy Klobuchar, Representative Dan Crenshaw and Representative Maxwell Frost. Others included Irish Ambassador Geraldine Byrne, Matt Lauer (Global Head of Strategy & Public Affairs, Mercuria /CEO, Qorvis Communications), Samantha Sault, Chief Editorial Officer, Qorvis Communications, Maryam Mujica – Chief Public Policy Officer, General Catalyst), Jonathan Lamy – Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy, Live Nation Entertainment, Diane Blagman – Senior Director, Greenberg Traurig,, David White – Founder, DPW Strategies, Kimball Stroud – Founder & CEO, Kimball Stroud & Associates . The fact everyone was so beautifully dressed adorned in tuxedos and elegant gowns definitely added an air of sophistication to the entire evening.
Nearby, a roaring bonfire crackled under the stars, casting golden light over intimate lounge areas and attracting guests in to take a pause for cozy conversation or perhaps just a stop briefly to warm up in between champagne flutes. But the real heat of the night emanated from the dance floor, where DJ Cash Cash turned a room into a Studio 54-inspired fever dream. Decked out in sequins, velvet, and bold silhouettes, partygoers moved with abandon, feeding off the energy that pulsed through the crowd.
The decor was nothing short of spectacular with every corner of the premises curated to attract interactions and conversations with the most comfortable lounge seating reflecting a low lit colorful ambiance. Every turn offered a new surprise, a new Instagrammable moment. TIME’s signature red subtly wove through the visual palette, grounding the glamorous setting with brand presence.
Of course, no gathering is complete without world-class food, and this one delivered in spades. Artful bites floated by on silver trays Swiss delicacies with modern flair—while curated cocktails kept the spirit flowing well into the early morning hours. But above all, it was the atmosphere that left a lasting impression. The vibe? Pure joy. It was infectious, untamed, and unmistakably reminiscent of Studio 54 at its glittering peak—only this time, with well-dressed diplomats and correspondents in the mix. It was the kind of night that reminded everyone why, even in the age of digital everything, real-life magic and dancing into the night still reigns supreme.
