The M·A·C Experience at Howard University

At C’est Belle Events, we don’t just plan events—we create moments people talk about long after the lights go down. So when M·A·C Cosmetics tapped us to design and curate their freshman cohort experience with Howard University, we were all in.

As an HBCU grad myself—and someone who’s called D.C. home for years now—this one hit differently. M·A·C is a pioneer for my generation. A brand I grew up watching shape culture, creativity, and confidence. Working with them had been on my personal brand wish list for a long time, so bringing this vision to life felt like a full-circle moment.

Setting the Tone

From the start, M·A·C’s goal was clear: make the students feel welcomed, valued, and excited about what was ahead. Together, we focused on creating an introductory experience that felt elevated but still fun and intentional.

We chose Hotel Zena for its bold, art-forward personality and prime downtown location—modern, expressive, and the perfect backdrop for a brand like M·A·C.

And because first impressions matter, the experience didn’t start at the door. The freshmen were picked up from campus on a party bus—no navigating traffic, no figuring out logistics. Just vibes. The night officially started the moment they stepped on board.

Arrival & Atmosphere

Upon arrival, students were greeted with appetizers and mocktails featuring custom M·A·C drink stirrers—a subtle branded touch that set the tone immediately. The energy was relaxed and social, giving the cohorts space to mingle before being invited into the main dinner space.

M·A·C x Howard University Dinner

The dinner design was intentionally clean, modern, and true to the M·A·C aesthetic. A long estate-style table anchored the room, styled with crisp white florals, black tapered candles in glass hurricanes, and just the right balance of drama and restraint.

One of my favorite parts? The details.

Each guest had an individual place setting designed as a M·A·C compact mirror—a custom place card that doubled as the menu. When opened, guests were greeted by a reflective mirror on top and the printed menu below. Unexpected, personal, and very on-brand.

We also leaned into the venue’s beautiful lighting, layering in a custom lighting design and a stunning silver balloon installation that framed the space perfectly. A large M·A·C floor mirror gave students a moment to capture memories—because what’s a night like this without a few mirror selfies?

Food, Celebration & Thoughtful Touches

We had so much fun dreaming up the menu—a three-course meal with entrée options of chicken or salmon that felt approachable yet elevated.

The evening included speakers throughout the night, with M·A·C representatives and past cohorts sharing their journeys and experiences, grounding the night in inspiration and opportunity.

One cohort member was celebrating her birthday, and we couldn’t let that go unnoticed. Georgetown Cupcakes made a special appearance (because if you know D.C., you know), followed by a room full of voices singing happy birthday.

And to close the night, M·A·C tote bags filled with makeup goodies, branded flasks, and thoughtful takeaways were hung on the back of every chair—sending each student home with a little piece of the experience.

The Takeaway

It was truly a beautiful night—one where intention met execution, and culture met care. The students felt celebrated, the clients were thrilled, and I walked away incredibly proud of what we created together.

Collaborating with M·A·C wasn’t just another event—it was a milestone. A reminder that writing your goals down matters, and that when preparation meets opportunity, magic happens.

Big Love to Our Vendor Partners 🤍

This night wouldn’t have come together without an incredible team:

• Creative Design: C’est Belle Events

• Photography: Iris Mannings

• Production: The Light Source Company

• Florals: Concrete Rose Floral

• Balloons: Moments By Mick

• Stationery: By Dami Studios NYC

• Venue: Hotel Zena

• Rentals: DC Event Rentals

If you’re a brand planning an event in Washington, D.C. or New York, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Reach out via our inquiry form, and let’s create something unforgettable.