This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

It's a Dirty Job

But I really want to do it

There were a lot of things I wanted to be when I grew up: a dolphin, a Broadway performer, an interior decorator who worked exclusively in a black and white palette, and just like Loni Anderson on Circus of the Stars.

Never once did I dream of becoming a doyenne, and not just because I had no idea what one was. At least not until this past weekend when I read a Washington Post magazine article about dinner parties in this area and it referred to women who host these well-heeled shindigs as "doyennes" and "socialites."

And now I want to be one, too. (Said while stomping foot and whining in a very Veruca Salt manner.)

Find out what's happening in Oaktonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

This is the same Washington Post magazine that profiled my annual Oktoberfest party a few years ago and not only declined to describe me, the host, as a doyenne, but also referred to me as a Dilettante and mentioned my age.

Twice.

Find out what's happening in Oaktonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

I'm especially perplexed because I totally fit the description of a doyenne. I’m the oldest in my closest group of friends, I'm a socially prominent person (in my own mind), and I am no stranger to hosting large parties. Granted, these parties are not generally frequented by the Washington elite ... or anyone that is offended by juvenile humor.     

So now I'm wondering whether I can just start calling myself a doyenne or if this is a title which must be bestowed, like the descriptor "buff?"

I did come close to having an impressive title a couple of years ago when I purchased a membership at Wolf Trap. Because we live in the D.C. area, members are presented with a veritable "who's who" list of titles in the drop-down menu when filling out basic information on the membership form. This menu includes appellations such as Ambassador, Baroness, Her Excellency, His Royal Highness, Lady, Lord, Master, President and Prince.

While a tough choice, I ultimately went with "Her Excellency" (though "Baroness" was a close contender). Wolf Trap apparently verifies this title choice, however, because after I received an initial e-mail confirmation addressed to "Her Excellency Canedo," everything I subsequently received was addressed with just my name.

Get a sense of humor, Wolf Trap.

On Sunday, my husband and I spent all day lounging by the pool, and then hosted an impromptu cookout for a few friends. One of the friends called to ask if dinner was going to be anything fancy and I replied honestly: "I still haven’t decided if I’m going to shower … which may give you an indication."

Perhaps I can be the Doyenne of the unwashed masses?

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Oakton