JEAN-MARIE FERNANDEZ

CHAIRWOMAN OF THE WASHINGTON BALLET SPRING GALA

HOW MANY BENEFTIS HAVE YOU WORKED ON?

This is my first.

WHO HAS HELPED YOU THE MOST WITH THE PLANNING?

My husband, Raul Fernandez.

WHAT DO YOU GET OUT OF IT?

It’s rewarding to be able to give back to the community in any way – my husband and I are involved in a lot of children’s programs, and the ballet has many programs for underprivileged kids.

ANY REALLY EMBARRASSING BENEFIT MOMENTS?

One time, I split my dress....

WHO WOULD BE YOUR DREAM GUEST?

Mikhail Baryshnikov

FAVORITE CATERER?

Occasions.

FAVORITE PLACE TO SHOP FOR DRESSES?

Saks at Chevy Chase.

BEST FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS?

May Flowers in Reston.

ADVICE FOR PLANNING A BENEFIT?

Start planning early, stay calm, and enlist as much help from your friends as possible.   

Dress by VALENTINO ($12,500). Available at Saks Jandel, 5510 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, Md., 301-652-2250. White gold 75ct pave diamond flower earrings ($22,050), white gold diamond necklace ($29,200), white gold 10.5ct diamond bracelet bangle ($35,000) and platinum 8.2ct three-row diamond ring ($27,735). All available at Boone & Sons Jewelers, 5550 The Hills Plaza Chevy Chase, Md., 301-657-2144.