Conservation International's New York City Gala

Conservation International, one of the largest conservation organizations in the World, returned to New York City recently to host its annual New York Gala at the iconic Pierre Hotel. This year’s gathering of over 300 guests would celebrate Conservation International’s 25th anniversary and honor long-time Conservation International board member, Henry Arnhold. Empire worked closely with this client to create a memorable event highlighting the growth and accomplishments in the fight for conservation and sustainability for future generations.After an elegant cocktail reception in the Cotillion Room, guests were invited to dinner in the Grand Ballroom where Empire transformed the space into a lush forest. Woodland sounds filled the air as guests were seated immersed in nature. Beautiful and sustainable floral centerpieces made of live bonsai palm trees, succulents atop moss-adorned tables contributed to the earthy theme of the evening. As the program began, a warm amber glow throughout the room highlighting overgrown palm trees faded and the focus turned to the stage where an impressive wall created entirely of live moss and orchids set stood as the backdrop for the program.The stage program included tributes to Henry Arnhold (known to the family, friends and colleagues as “Uncle Henry”) for his generosity and efforts in conservation. Guest speakers including Chairman and Co-Founder of Evercore Partners, Roger Altman; President of the Council on Foreign Relations, Richard Haass and former World Bank President, James Wolfensohn who all commended “Uncle Henry” for his involvement in sustainability and his lifetime of humanitarian workMarrying Henry Arnhold’s support of the arts and the mission to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come, dinner host committee member, Jodi Arnhold invited students from the School of Dance of the world-renowned dance company, Ballet Hispanico to the stage to perform two vibrant dance numbers. The dancers’ lively flamenco and a whimsical ballet set a festive tone to the evening and reminded guests that all the efforts of Conservation International is integral to the vitality of the community. Conservation International Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO, Peter Seligman awarded “Uncle Henry” the Global Conservation Hero Award and unveiled the founding of the Institute for Environmental Sustainability and Peace at Conservation International. Seligman then took to the stage to highlight Conservation International’s accomplishments of the past 25 years including creating strategic partnerships with major corporations like the Gap, Wal-Mart and Starbucks to value forest eco-systems for forest-friendly methods that preserve and grow the environment.Board Member, Heidi Miller, concluded the evening’s program by inviting guests to continue the fight for a more conscious and sustainable world by donating to the Conservation International cause. The evening raised over $1 million.Guests continued the celebration mingling and enjoying a lovely dessert reception in the Garden Foyer.Empire and Conservation International were able to deliver a beautiful evening for gala attendees driving home the CI mission and recognizing achievement in the fight for a brighter future.