Seasoned meeting planners know the St. Regis Hotel, Washington, D.C., most of all for its two-block proximity to the White House and its extraordinary quality of service. St. Regis butlers assist guests with everything from unpacking suitcases to confirming dinner reservations. But the introduction of St. Regis E-Butler Service this fall brings the tradition of personalized service into the twenty- first century. Guests will simply e-mail requests directly to their butler's PDA and receive confirmation without having to leave their meetings.

In September 2006, the hotel embarked on a yearlong renovation. The project, slated for completion this fall, centers on the loving restoration of the hotel's Italian Renaissance splendor. It also aims to transform a legendary hotel into the finest luxury hotel in the capital.

President Calvin Coolidge clipped the ceremonial ribbon on opening day. Every U.S. president since has visited the capital city icon, along with a long list of international dignitaries, royalty, and A-list celebrities.

During the Roosevelt era, the State Department entertained important guests at the hotel, as did Harry S. Truman, who conducted much of his official entertaining within its walls while the White House received extensive renovation in 1950.

Today's top-to-bottom renewal touches all nine of the hotel's meeting spaces, including the Crystal Ballroom, a venue widely considered one of Washington's finest. The adjoining Crystal Terrace, an outdoor garden space unique among the city's luxury hotels, will receive new landscaping to enhance its European ambiance.

Any agenda can benefit from a host of exclusive incentive options available to groups. The staff can arrange for VIP tours of the capital's monuments by moonlight; private dinners at Mt. Vernon; tours of the State Department's reception rooms, Blair House, or the Capitol; even cocktail receptions at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History beside the Hope Diamond.

At day's end, participants can look forward to the residential comfort of 175 newly appointed rooms and suites. The New York–based interior design firm Sills Huniford instilled a bright modern aesthetic through a palette of rich rust and gold.

Guest-room amenities commensurate with the St. Regis name include 32-inch plasma-screen TVs, DVD players, Pratesi linens, and mosaic-tiled baths complete with Remede grooming products and mirrors with built-in plasma-screen TVs. Guests can dine in their rooms around the clock or step out to dine in the elegant environs of the signature restaurant.