Talk about a party: 3,416 top salespeople from Sun Microsystems Inc. outfitted in 17th- century costume frolicking in the gardens of Versailles. That's right, Versailles.
Sun was one of many companies the French government hopes will rent out function space at the castle, part of the Cultural Ministry's plan to raise the $470 million needed to restore Versailles' buildings and grounds to their 17th century grandeur. Prices range from $15,000 for a party by the fountain to $70,000 for a ball in the Hall of Battles.
Sun's annual Sun Rise reception capped off a 3-day Parisian extravaganza. The party began at 6 p.m. with a private tour of the palace followed by a traditional French sit-down dinner in the orangery. A privileged few sipped cocktails in the Hall of Battles, and all guests enjoyed after-dinner dancing until midnight under a tent in the gardens.
"The event was wildly successful, " says Sun Rise program manager Dana Balan. "It was a dream come true for people to have a private party at a castle with such a renowned history."
Call the French Government Tourist Office at (212) 838-8268 for further information.