Toy Store Aims For Groups
<B> Toy Store Aims For Groups</B>
By Frank Rosci
Corporate planners searching for a fresh, one-of-a-kind setting for an upcoming function in New York City might consider the FAO Schwarz toy store in midtown Manhattan.
Surrounded by toys, "kids" of every age are sure to delight in the fun, festive atmosphere, according to Katie Moriarty, the store's corporate special events manager. "There isn't anything like it in New York for corporate groups," she noted, "and who wouldn't want to feel like a kid again?"
Welcomed by the FAO Schwarz Toy Soldier, groups are immersed in a colorful, interactive world of toys and games, highlighted by the three-story animated clock tower, which chimes "Welcome to Our World of Toys," accompanied by the clock's dancing, ruby red slippers and a moving New York City Checker cab. The antics of Bookmonster, a dinosaur and one of the store's most popular characters, and Go-2-Floor-2, the talking elevator robot, will enthrall attendees, Moriarty said, as will the Star Wars department.
Planners can rent space at the 70,000 square-foot store for cocktail receptions, sit-down dinner parties, meetings and press receptions. The facility can hold more than 2,500 people for a reception, 120 for a dinner and 50 for a meeting. The store also can help planners set up buffets, seating tables, bands and bars. Catering is available and attendees can park cars for an extra charge.
"We can also facilitate breakfast parties and private shopping events priced accordingly," Moriarty said.
Companies that have held functions at FAO Schwarz include New York Hospital, Memorial Sloan-Kettering, Computer Associates, Delta Air Lines, MGM as well as several financial institutions, such as J.P. Morgan, Merrill Lynch, Salomon Brothers and Goldman Sachs.
Function space is available Monday through Sunday, with rentals between Thanksgiving and Christmas negotiable.
This year, rates for events running from one to four hours are $10,000 for up to 500 guests, $12,000 for 500-750 guests and $15,000 for 750-1,200 guests. The cost of a group breakfast before store hours is $5,000, while the summer rate for an evening event is $5,000 (from July 1 to Aug. 31). Rates, however, are negotiable, Moriarty said. For information, call 212-644-9410, ext. 4182.