Exclusive Rooftop Cocktail Party at NYC Tech Week
Business Insider attended an invite-only rooftop happy hour during NYC Tech Week, held at Le Jardin, 28 floors above IBM’s New York City headquarters. The event, co-hosted by IBM, Tech:NYC, Union Square Ventures, and HumanX, brought together Big Tech employees, founders, and representatives from AI startups.
Upon arrival, guests were greeted with champagne and the promise of a night filled with networking opportunities. The rooftop offered breathtaking views of Manhattan, with skyscrapers visible in nearly every direction.
The event featured an open bar with signature cocktails, including a spicy margarita, and a selection of wine. Waiters circulated with trays of hors d’oeuvres, offering bite-sized delights such as salmon on pumpernickel, mushroom tarts, and macarons.
Attendees spanned various sectors within the tech industry, with many representing AI startups. Conversations revolved around topics such as landing a tech job, the latest developments in AI, and dating in New York.
As the night progressed, the sun set over Manhattan, casting a warm glow over the proceedings. The relaxed atmosphere allowed guests to mingle freely, both inside and on the roof.
For some attendees, making it onto the guest list felt like a significant achievement, comparable to getting into a high school party. The event’s exclusivity was evident in the check-in process, where some individuals were turned away due to their ‘pending’ status on the Partiful invite list.
The evening served as a prime example of the networking opportunities available during NYC Tech Week, bringing together key players in the tech industry in an exclusive and intimate setting.