who we are.

As You Are exists to hold and cultivate a safe and celebratory space for the LGBTQIA+ community. Café by day, bar and dance lounge by night, As You Are welcomes LGBTQIA+ patrons, from all walks of life, and allies in a versatile haven for queer expression and connection. Prioritizing safety first and foremost, As You Are advances an enthusiastic model of consent, ensuring guests are fully comfortable and empowered by the space.

Who are we?

We are Jo McDaniel and Rach "Coach" Pike, an acclaimed duo with over two decades of combined service industry experience passionate about building a space that serves DC’s vibrant LGBTQIA+ community.

Jo McDaniel (she/her) brings just shy of 2 decades of service industry expertise to As You Are. The former general manager of Adams Morgan’s A League Of Her Own, Jo is a community leader who frequently hosts events on As You Are’s virtual platforms and will serve as the bar manager.

Rach Pike (they/them) draws on nearly a decade of service experience and skills honed as a life coach and community activist. Previously a bartender and head of security for A League Of Her Own, Rach champions customer safety through rigorous security that embodies an enthusiastic model of consent.