“The pinnacle of my career” is how Darryl Murchison describes his recent work as designer of the Texas State Society’s “Black Tie & Boots” bash at the 2013 presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C. And when you’re talking about a 24-year career that’s included some of the most prestigious corporate, fundraising, high society and private events in Houston (and other cities—our Mr. Murchison’s crazy-amazing talents are in demand from coast to coast, natch), including too many breathtaking weddings to count—well, that’s quite a pinnacle, indeed.

The Pitch

As founder and creative director of legendary Houston event-design firm Darryl & Co., Murchison was the top pick of Ward & Ames Special Events, the official producer of the 2013 Black Tie & Boots event. “They brought this to me and said, ‘We need you, your vision, your creativity. Would you be a partner with us on the event?’”—one of several inaugural celebrations, and, though technically an “unofficial” ball, the hottest ticket in D.C. that weekend. “I presented to them and to Texas State Society, and from there, it was a very quick process. I was in.”

The Party

Held at the Gaylord National Harbor Resort on the Potomac River, the 8,000-attendee event was pure Texas, from the proliferation of yellow roses, to the Kilgore Rangerettes, to the Texas A&M Aggies, to a performance by country legend Charley Pride. It was also pure patriotism—but not the plain ol’ stars-and-stripes kind.

The client said, ‘We don’t want to see overload of red, white and blue bunting,” which was perfectly fine with out-of-the-box designer Darryl M. Instead, the client said, “‘Imagine the Driskill Hotel bar in Austin,’” (one of our faves, btw—we love how the amber lighting illuminates our Manhattan), which Murchison did, and delivered a party palette of “burgundy, deep blue, tea-stained colors,” which went right along with the party’s “vintage, nostalgic, back-to-Texas-roots” theme.

Feb. 7 Darryl & Co. Open House!

Meet the man behind the 2013 Black Tie & Boots inaugural ball, and check out Darryl & Co.’s hottest new wedding colors, patterns, tablescapes and design concepts at tomorrow night’s Spring Bridal Showcase & Open House. And while you’re there, make sure to enjoy bites, bubbly and fine wine, courtesy Jackson and Company—another Houston party-making legend. RSVP now!

Photos: Darryl & Co.