Board of Directors
The Association of Wedding Professionals of Greater Washington, DC (AWP) is governed by a dedicated team of wedding industry leaders. Tasked with managing the day-to-day operations of the organization, the AWP Board works diligently to provide our members with pertinent educational content, efficient member services, and effective association business administration.
MEET THE BOARD MEMBERS
OPEN POSITIONS
VICE PRESIDENT
TREASURER
SECRETARY
PROGRAM CHAIR
MEMBER -AT- LARGE (DC)
DOOR PRIZE CHAIR
Ask how you can get involved and join the Board. info@awp-dc.com
PRESIDENT
NICOLE FINGERS (she/her)
Owner and Lead Stationery Stylist of FINGERS IN INK
Nicole Fingers Woodward is the esteemed owner and head stationery designer of FINGERS IN INK fine invitations and stationery, located in Arlington, Virginia. With over twenty-three years of experience in creating custom and trendsetting event invitations, Nicole's passion and expertise in the wedding industry have brought a wealth of innovative ideas to the AWP organization. As an active member for over a decade, Nicole has served as Vice-President and President on the Board, working diligently to elevate the AWP brand. Known for her exceptional events and educational programs, Nicole consistently delivers outstanding experiences for members and followers alike.
TREASURER
Linda Joyce "LJ" Gyimah (she/her)
Owner and CEO of EMBRACE MAKEUP ARTISTRY
Linda "LJ" Gyimah is a makeup artist based in Northern Virginia with over 10 years of experience. LJ specializes in making women look and feel like the best version of themselves by enhancing their beauty. She has worked with brides from global backgrounds allowing her to hone her skills to meet the beauty needs of all clients. Weddings are full of love and joy and LJ takes the stress out of the day by creating detailed plans to cover everything you could imagine and beyond so you don't have to.
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Owner of MARLISA CORNITCHER BEAUTY
MEMBERSHIP CHAIR
MARLISA CORNITCHER (she/her)
Marlisa Cornitcher is a makeup artist, beauty expert, entrepreneur based in the Washington, D.C. area. She has worked in the beauty industry for over 12 years and has worked with beauty brands Estee Lauder and Smashbox. Marlisa has always loved all things beauty. She has a passion for and focus on creating polished bridal looks. She also assists her clients look incredible through the art of makeup and works with her clients to create a look that captures their unique style. Marlisa has been blessed to work with countless brides and my work has been featured in WashingtonWeddings and WashingtonianMag.
Member-at-Large (MD)
ASHLEYRAE SWANN (she/her)
Owner of CYGNUS STUDIO
AshleyRae Swann is a life-long arts and crafting junkie. Inspired by all mediums of fine art, literature, and antiques, her services are executed with equal parts heart and imagination. She believes every occasion is made more special with a little extra sparkle and creativity. Her design philosophy is simple: treat everyone as the unique spirit they are. There is only ONE you in the world. In her available time, AshleyRae is an avid reader, painter and swimmer. She enjoys travelling, spending time with family, and community advocacy. AshleyRae is the proud alumna of Virginia Commonwealth University and is an NCIDQ Licensed Interior Designer, a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and Association of Wedding Professionals of Greater Washington, DC (AWP).
The Member-at-Large is elected by the membership of the Association and serve a one-year term. Their main responsibilities are to be an advocate for the AWP membership body, while also keeping the AWP Board knowledgeable of any member concerns and opportunities for organizational growth.
The Member-at-Large inspires and motivates AWP Members to find innovative ways to help our community succeed.
Past President's Circle
Nicole Fingers Woodward (2024) - Fingers In Ink
Sharia Barksdale (2021) - VIVID Events & Designs
Nicole Fingers Woodward (2017) - Fingers In Ink
Amanda Smith (2016) - White Pumpkin
Tara Melvin (2012) - Perfect Planning Events
Marilyn Patterson (2010) - Joyous Events LLC
Jim Johnson (2008) - The Picture Story Studio
Susan Gildersleve (2006) - Perfect Wedding Guide
Ken Rochon (2004) - The Umbrella Syndicate
Steve Kimbell (2000) - Oracle Band
Marc McIntosh (1998) - The Wedding Experience
Shelby Tuck-Horton (1993) - Exquisite Expressions
Cindie Dayhoff (1987) - Founder and 1st President of AWP
INTERESTED IN AWP LEADERSHIP?
The AWP Board of Directors are biennially elected and devote their time and resources to growing the impact of the association throughout the Greater DC area as well as serving the full needs of our membership community.
The next election cycle will open in the fall of 2022 for Members-at-Large and the fall of 2023 for Board Members.
We encourage members interested in participating in AWP as a leader to explore the current volunteer opportunities available below:
Board Member Position - Partnership Chair
Membership & Retention Committee
Marketing Committee
Program Committee
Partnership Committee