We're fairly certain that in its 104-year history the Samuel F. Carter building, newly repurposed as the JW Marriott Downtown, never saw a night like the one that celebrity party planner and Marriott brand partner Colin Cowie orchestrated as the hotel's grand opening in the historic building.
More than 700 revelers poured in for the "interactive" celebration that began in the hotel lobby where near-naked women were being dressed in body paint by local artists, and progressed through three additional venues with food, drink and entertainment changing at each. Welcoming guests was a violinist on stilts, dressed in a golden gown and headdress, setting the high vibe tone of the party.
"I was very excited to launch and to bring the story of the JW Marriott Downtown alive," said the New York-based party planner. "I've used human statues and live performers to bring the artwork alive." One of the features of the hotel is its emphasis on art, much of it from local artists.
T he crowd moved from party area to party area in a carefully orchestrated procession of experiences.
Led by six towering "arrows," wearing matching white wigs and blue dresses, the crowd moved from party area to party area in a carefully orchestrated procession of experiences. In the Monet Room, guests were treated to a buffet of global cuisine including tamales, beef tenderloin and Chinese dumplings. Drinks were served from a massive bar in the center of the room while a DJ blasted night sounds.
Next stop, the 11th floor where guests would take a peek in the suites and guest rooms, visit the first Spa by JW (a new concept to spread internationally), and chill in the fab business center where a full bar was offered and where guests could graze through a seafood bar of the best from the Gulf. Views of downtown included.
In the suite, a couple clad in silk pajamas lounged in the king-size bed while ordering room service from the iPad menu. Party guests joined the animation, jumping into the suite's cylindrical bathtub for photos. In the biz center conference room, actors played out a lively business meeting.
Party guests joined the animation, jumping into the suite's cylindrical bathtub for photos.
For the grand finale, the throng headed to the Picasso party room where dessert buffets, cheese offerings, coffee stations and bubbly were accompanied by the headliner entertainment — Home Free. And, as Cowie said, "After that, it's cha, cha, cha all night long."
J.W. "Bill" Marriott Jr., president and CEO of Marriott International Inc., made a brief appearance at the start of the party but few guests were able to visit with him as the 82-year-old businessman retreated to his suite once the party action reached fever pitch. Staying on throughout the night were Pritesh Patel, president of Pearl Hospitality (JW Marriott Houston Downtown developer and owner) and Mitesh Raichada, COO of Pearl Hospitality.
On the party path throughout the hotel were Vanity Lounge new owner Jimmy Montgomery, Houston Super Bowl Host Committee CEO Sallie Sargent, artist GOONZO247, Claudia Solis, Israel Glass Robert Sakowitz, Kate and Drew Riley, Magen Pastor, Fifi Phi, Bethany Buchanan, Issa Chou and John Halber of J&D Entertainment, which provided the various actors and models.
Colin Cowie, from left, Bill Marriott, Mitzi Gaskins and Paul Cahill.
