A Global Private Equity Firm Celebrates 30 Years of Success

The acclaimed American Museum of Natural History in New York City seemed the only appropriate backdrop for this celebratory event in which the world’s largest private equity firm marked its 30th Anniversary.

Over 1,500 employees came together in the famed Milstein Hall of Ocean Life (more commonly known as the Whale Room) to memorialize their accomplishments with a custom-created menu and bar experience, an energetic DJ and an interactive photo booth, always a guest favorite. The room was transformed by custom floor-to-ceiling branded banners and backdrops highlighting the company’s achievements thus far. Soaring floral arrangements, reflective linens and sleek furniture fit perfectly with the water-themed space.

In keeping with the light mood of the fete, the company’s Founder and CEO took the “world’s largest selfie” during his stage remarks, capturing an image of all of the employees with his beloved flip phone (aided by cutting-edge technology that actually captured a 360° image of the entire room by piecing together live and pre-captured shots). The image was immediately projected on large screens in the space, prompting amusement from the crowd about their not-so-tech savvy leader.

After the remarks and just as the festivities were ramping up, the top 75 partners and advisers in the firm, accompanied by their spouses, quietly headed upstairs to the Theodore Roosevelt Rotunda (also known as the “Dinosaur Room”) for an elegant and intimate seated dinner. Once the filet mignon and desserts (customized with chocolate-sauce written notes) were enjoyed, it was time to dance! Guests enjoyed a live band while taking in the elegant décor, including soft lighting highlighting the existing architecture as well as the refined florals, linens, and lounge furniture.

The custom evening was one to remember, fit only for a firm that is one of the fastest-growing in its industry and managing over $365 billion in assets.