Gloria Buck
Former President
The History of First Fridays New Jersey
It was in 1987 that, twelve African-American professionals decided to find a way to accommodate a growing need to network and socialize in quiet sophisticated, upscale surroundings. The setting needed to be easily accessible and offer a relaxed atmosphere, fostering easy conversation and exchange of ideas.
In over 20 years, First Fridays has grown from one hundred participants to a network of over 11,000 professional African-Americans from throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Connecticut. It has fostered the creation of similar "First Fridays" events across the country.
The Goals of the Organization Are:
To produce events with the assistance of membership fees, corporate and individual contributions, that encourage business and social networking.
To provide a conduit to advertise to minority professionals in the New Jersey metropolitan area.
To "give back" by providing valuable in-formation related to the health, well being and overall growth of our communities.
To expose our membership to opportunities in business development, self improvement and entertainment activities.
Typical First Friday Format
The event format consists of a Cocktail Hour and Hosted Socializing from 7:00PM to 9:00PM in the "Silk Lounge" where professionals have the opportunity to meet and network. At 9:00PM, live entertainment and the 'After Party' in the main dining room begins. Patrons can dance the night away listening to musical hits from the 70s, 80s, 90s & a touch of today. After party is held until 2am.
Admission is $10-$20 per person depending on events and time of arrival. Frequently special discounts are offered via email. First Friday provides the Ambiance and the Opportunity the rest in up to you.
