From Baby Showers to Correspondents' Dinners: The Evolution of Political Socializing.

Embassies in Washington D.C. are hosting parties and events to build relationships with politicians and lobbyists. The events range from baby showers to sauna nights and are seen as a way to create goodwill between nations. Some embassies have lobbyists or PR firms on retainer for their business around the U.S. and often help put together events at which top administration officials and members of Congress are guests. The events are seen as a form of lobbying and are a way to get VIPs on their home turf, feed them expensive food and booze, and offer them unique experiences.