Top Atlanta Quinceañera Venues

Nina and Rafi is a neighborhood pizza business located on the Atlanta Beltline. Pizza and Italian-style pub meals are served, and a complete bar is available, including an extensive amaro collection. We have a huge patio with plenty of seats. We do not take bookings at this time. It is our policy to operate in a CASHLESS environment. We are a rustic Italian restaurant and pizzeria that also serves brunch. The Detroit-style pizza served here has developed a cult following, and the drinks served here are among the most inventive on the BeltLine. A rustic Italian diner atmosphere is created inside the restaurant with red-leather banquettes and an open kitchen, while black walls, industrial light fixtures, and damaged mirrors provide an element of modernity to the space. If you're traveling the BeltLine—22-mile Atlanta's analog to New York's High Line—not it's difficult to find Nina & Rafi Restaurant & Bar. Aside from the fact that its patio seating extends all the way to the sidewalk, the fragrance of its pizzas draws in more customers than any marketing effort could hope to achieve.

• Spaces for 150 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

Best wishes on your engagement! You and your special someone have decided on a date and are ready to begin arranging your perfect wedding. Your big day requires a lot of specific planning, which may be stressful and intimidating. Do not be discouraged by the seemingly unending list of wedding to-dos. Come to the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Midtown and let us assist you in crossing things off your to-do list! The Crowne Plaza Atlanta Midtown is an outstanding venue for your special day, with flexible event space, a dedicated wedding staff, a premier Atlanta location, and more. Your guests will have the time of their life when you marry in Atlanta's Midtown district! You will have the ceremony of your desires and experience the magic of a stress-free wedding day with three distinct event rooms and unique, personalized extras. Celebrate your Atlanta wedding with our spectacular wedding package to make your day even more special! You'll be treated to a delectable plated dinner or a buffet-style meal, with additional options such as plentiful hors d'oeuvres and special snacks available. Treat your guests to an open bar and a champagne toast, and make sure they have an unique block of rooms to stay in so they can really enjoy the evening! Our event space is ideal for your dream wedding, whether you want to organize an elaborate occasion in our sophisticated Georgia Ballroom or celebrate your big day against the romantic Atlanta cityscape in our distinctive SKY Room. The Crowne Plaza Atlanta Midtown can accommodate any size wedding with its adaptable event space.

• Spaces for 50-130 Guests
• 1 Outdoor

JCT. Kitchen & Bar Opened in 2007, and is an award-winning staple. JCT Kitchen & Bar can host up to 150 guests for wedding ceremonies and receptions. At a wedding ceremony or reception we offer a beautiful setting that is perfect for formal ceremonies. We at JCT Kitchen offer a semi-private dining space that can seat up to 50 guests. JCT also offers partial floor to ceiling curtains for an intimate yet inclusive ambiance for rehearsal and seated dinners. A pre-set menu and beverage packages or an open bar are also available within the space. JCT. Kitchen & Bar, which first opened its doors in 2007, has become a beloved institution in the thriving West Midtown area. When hosting wedding ceremonies, JCT. Kitchen & Bar can accommodate up to 150 people, and when hosting receptions, they can accommodate up to 225 people in a stunning environment that is ideal for both formal and casual festivities. Our semi-private dining space, which can accommodate up to 50 guests with partial floor to ceiling curtains for an intimate yet inclusive ambiance for rehearsal dinners and seated reception dinners in the main dining room, or up to 125 guests for cocktail receptions in our JCT. Bar, is available as well. Within the areas, there is a pre-set cuisine and beverage packages, as well as an open bar. Dedicated to using fresh and locally sourced ingredients, head chef Brian Horn combines superb technique with a straightforward approach to create refined comfort cuisine with powerful, well-balanced tastes. Our experts will assist you in customizing our components to create a meal that meets your own preferences while also delighting your visitors. Our gorgeous location and delicious cuisine are only a part of what we have to offer. We also have good suggestions for dependable suppliers, such as florists, photographers and musicians, who we have used on a regular basis.

Kyma is a contemporary seafood tavern with an inventive yet approachable menu that is true to its Mediterranean origins. The dazzling constellation display on the deep blue ceiling, white marble columns, and bold fresh fish display are dramatic yet suiting for the modern Greek dining experience. Our menus offer pristine seafood that is delivered and prepared every day. The food menus are paired with an extensive wine, cocktail and ouzo list. Fresh, healthy food (including full vegetarian and vegan menus), attentive Mediterranean hospitality and festive atmosphere await at Kyma. We are currently open for dine-in, take away, curbside pick-up and delivery, so feel free to call us or order online! Kyma is an excellent choice for supper when celebrating a memorable social occasion or hosting an important corporate gathering. Kyma can handle larger events during the day if they are planned ahead of time. We offer wonderful pre-set meals, or if you prefer something a little more unique, Chef Pano may create a menu specifically for you, resulting in a more customized experience. Our Facilities: • Kyma's Semi-Private Dining Room • Kyma's Outdoor Terrace, which can seat up to 60 people; Kyma's Outdoor Garden, which can accommodate up to 16 guests Fully comprehensive event planning; customized printed menus; wheelchair accessible; valet parking; and more.

• Spaces for 75-200 Guests
• 1 Museum
• 1 Landmark

KAI LIN ART is a modern and contemporary art gallery cultivating creativity, conversation, and connection through art. Founded by Yu-Kai Lin in 2008, our gallery is dedicated to promoting emerging and established artists in the Southeast and beyond. KAI LIN ART has been recognized by regional, national, and international publications for being on the cutting edge of art in America. The gallery has been selected as a Top 50 Cultural Destination in Atlanta by internationally renowned Wallpaper*Magazine and voted Best Gallery by Creative Loafing, Jezebel Magazine, Fenuxe Magazine, Georgia Voice, and Haute Living. We are located in the booming Westside Arts District of Midtown Atlanta, Georgia. Kai Lin Art provides a big and versatile venue that is beautifully stylish and can be customized to meet the exact demands of your special occasion. Our location provides the ideal environment for business gatherings, holiday parties, birthday parties, weddings, rehearsal dinners, cocktail receptions, and any other special occasions that you may be celebrating. Our gallery exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the stunning artwork eliminates the need for further décor. We deal with a large number of local caterers and providers that can assist you in navigating the process to guarantee a successful event. The gallery is ideally located in Midtown Atlanta's thriving Westside District, which is home to a variety of cultural institutions. Please contact us to schedule a tour of our gallery and to discuss the various options available for your next event!

• Spaces for 100-550 Guests
• 2 Event Spaces

595 North, located in Atlanta's ever-expanding West Midtown, is ideal for both small and large gatherings. From traditional weddings to lively receptions, mitzvahs, birthday celebrations, and corporate luncheons, we've done it all. This warm and friendly venue has full audio and video amenities, making it a genuine turn-key solution for any family occasion or corporate event. A superb venue, interesting entertainment, and... outstanding food are all required for a successful event. 595 North excels at providing catering services for your business and social events, from corporate luncheons to beautiful plated dinners, with a choice of menu options to meet your needs. Alita Seda, Executive Chef, is a Culinary Institute of America graduate and a New York native. She has worked at some of the country's most unique restaurants, including the world-famous Walt Disney World Polynesian Resort, Devonshire Country Club at PGA, and Buckhead Bottle Bar and Bistro, as well as King + Duke in Atlanta. Alita, who is also a talented pastry chef, has a particular fondness for Latin cuisines and has a flair for putting her own creative spin on classic recipes.

Born in Osaka, Tomo Naito came to the US to study theatre direction at queens college. During his stay in Manhattan, Tomo worked at local Japanese, French, and Italian restaurants. After graduation Tomo took a job working for a Japanese trading company where he sourced the highest quality seafood from the Japanese markets. He developed a superb eye for quality and love for amazing ingredients. Tomo soon realized that his true passion lay in the kitchen and began his quest to become one of the worlds leading minds in the world of contemporary Japanese cuisine. Tomo's unique and extensive skills soon landed him in Las Vegas working in the famed Nobu. Here he was able to take his extensive skills to the next level by working the "omakase" station creating inspired tasting menus for the Vegas elite. Tomo Naito, who was born in Osaka, Japan, moved to the United States to pursue theatrical direction at Queens College. During his time in Manhattan, Tomo worked in a variety of restaurants, including Japanese, French, and Italian. Following graduation, Tomo accepted a position with a Japanese trade organization, where he was responsible for sourcing the highest-quality seafood from Japanese markets. He acquired an exceptional sense of quality and a passion for extraordinary ingredients. Tomo quickly recognized that his true interest was in the kitchen, and he embarked on a journey to become one of the world's foremost authorities on contemporary Japanese cuisine and gastronomy in general. With Tomo's one-of-a-kind and broad talents, he soon found himself working in Las Vegas' legendary Nobu restaurant. Here, he was able to take his tremendous culinary knowledge to the next level by operating the "omakase" station, where he created imaginative tasting menus for the elite of the Las Vegas casino industry. Soon after, Tomo relocated to Atlanta with the goal of opening his own restaurant. He founded TOMO with a single fundamental concept in mind: to serve contemporary Japanese cuisine made from the freshest, most carefully sourced ingredients from across the world. Tomo's unwavering commitment to the highest level of quality and his unique sense of style distinguish him as one of the most inspiring chefs working in the United States today.

• Spaces for 100-200 Guests
• 1 Event Space

The Peachtree Club is a luxurious high-rise venue situated 28 storeys above Atlanta, Georgia. The elevated wedding location offers sweeping views of the cityscape from the outside terrace and lavish dining hall. The magnificent setting will ensure that you and your guests have a memorable experience. Since 1989, The Peachtree Club has assisted couples from all around the world in celebrating their wedding day. Numerous events, such as engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, wedding ceremonies, and receptions, have taken place there. They have focused on offering a personalized experience for customers in a private setting since the outset. The compact high-rise setting provides panoramic views of the city skyline for you and your guests to admire and use as a background. The Rooftop Terrace is a large outdoor space with modern amenities that is perfect for ceremonies and cocktail hours while watching the sunset. Draped drapes and glittering lights can be added to the terrace to make it more appealing. Couples can choose from four private dining rooms on the inside, providing for unlimited choices. The indoor ballroom is an elegant hall with crystal chandeliers and magnificent mirrors. The walls and ceilings are adorned with exquisite molding and decorations inspired by neoclassical architecture. The ballroom is ideal for couples looking for a luxurious and sophisticated setting for their wedding reception. The Peachtree Club can accommodate up to 200 guests for cocktail parties and 100 for plated dinners, as well as smaller groups of 20 people or less. The venue will handle all of your food, beverage, and bar service, making your wedding preparation even easier. Their chief chef is happy to collaborate with couples to create a personalized wedding menu. Tables, mahogany chiavari chairs, silverware, and ivory-colored linens are all provided by the venue. The club's on-site wedding planners are on hand to ensure that your wedding vision is realized down to the last detail. To help you relax and prepare for your big day, get-ready rooms are available for you to use before you walk down the aisle.

Directly on the BeltLine. TWO serves wood-fired cuisine, in a funky atmosphere featuring live rotating rotisseries & live blues. TWO urban licks has been heating up the Atlanta restaurant scene with its “Fiery American Cooking” and live music since opening in the fall of 2004. The one-of-a-kind experience available at TWO urban licks has won over the Atlanta dining scene making it one of the city’s busiest restaurants. Executive Chef at TWO, Todd Stein gets to let his creativity shine as his passion for innovation and desire to exceed diners’ expectation enliven the “Fiery American Cooking” praised by Atlantans year after year. Our courtyard is set up with rock fountains & live trees that open to the starry sky via the retractable roof. The courtyard offers seating for 60 people & up to 90 for cocktails & appetizers. On the opposite side of the restaurant is the patio. Options include dining on the patio with the city’s best view of the skyline or inside TWO near the open glass garage doors that bring the outside in. The patio is perfect for cocktail receptions & bocce ball tournaments from 20 to 75 people. You can sip TWO’s signature infusion cocktails, play bocce ball & watch the chefs as they come out into the “urban garden” and gather herbs to make your meals.

• Spaces for 50-150 Guests
• 2 Event Spaces

Host your next private event at Lure. Inspired by classic coastal traditions, Lure presents Atlanta’s freshest seafood and drinks in a converted 1920's bungalow. Located in the heart of Midtown, Lure has a casual vibe, somewhere between a seaside fish house and a fine-dining restaurant. Guests can expect excellent food and service from the Lure staff. Taking inspiration from historic coastal traditions from America and throughout the world, Lure serves up Atlanta's finest seafood and a selection of complementary cocktails in a renovated 1920's home. You may come dressed up for a four-course meal or dressed down for a beer and an oyster plate on the tropical patio, which will be served raw, cold, and wonderfully fresh. Lure, located on Crescent Avenue in the center of Midtown, features a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, seamlessly bridging the gap between a weathered seashore fish shack and a fine-dining seafood restaurant. The marine relics that grace the walls of the museum were really sourced straight from the world's greatest maritime collection, which you can read more about here. For the explorer, the traditionalist, the hedonist, and the seafood-obsessed, it is the ultimate location in Atlanta. LOCATION: IN THE MIDDLE OF TOWN Max. number of guests: 110. CUISINE: CONTEMPORARY SEAFOOD PATIO: 60 VALET: 50 PRIVATE DINING ROOM: 50 SEMI-PRIVATE DINING ROOM: 50 PATIO: 60 YES

• Spaces for 100-200 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Café Intermezzo embodied the essence of the 300-year-old European coffeehouse long before modern "Coffee Houses" decorated corners all over America. When you enter Café Intermezzo, you are transported to another time and place. It's a break, a vacation, a 'intermezzo,' or 'intermission,' between the hectic acts of your life... in musical words, it's your respite between allegro and adagio.' Your vacation or meeting is complete with a delicious coffee and a lovely pastry. Breakfast, lunch, supper, or a late-night appetizer with a glass of wine or a cocktail might be on the menu on another visit. There are hundreds of options in the Beverage Book. "TourGuides" walk you through approximately sixty different pastries. For more than four decades, Café Intermezzo has been providing the place, the time, and the options. It's a true tradition, made complete only by your presence! When Brian Olson visited his ancestral homeland of Germany in 1971, he had the concept for Café Intermezzo. Visiting a Konditorei (bakery-café) in Berlin, and then many more around Germany and Austria, solidified my belief that the Europäische Kaffeehaus (European coffeehouse) might find a home in America as a vital place in the lives of its visitors. Olson believed that the Kaffeehaus would provide a distinct and wonderful refuge in the ever-expanding world of fast-food and environments designed to expedite takeout beverages and foods as a respite in a person's day, a place to stop, relax, think...as a "intermission" between all of the activities and responsibilities. The European coffeehouse is the polar opposite of fast food and drink. Music, fragrances, art, and the Café's sheer nature all express the core of the café experience. Outside the door, the rush and mayhem are left behind. The almost ethereal stuff of thought, with the body at ease, and the mind just doing what its owner wants it to do, abounds inside. In isolation, meet up with a buddy, have a meeting, or simply reflect on the moment, the day, or the lifetime. There are ample reasons for each and every one of them to be there. The hours of operation for each site can be seen on the location page.

• Spaces for 40-425 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

At Loca Luna, for any event booked in which only a food or an alcohol package is purchased, the time allotted for your reservation will be two hours. Loca Luna is a fun and trendy venue option for any and all events. Be it corporate parties, birthdays, holiday bashes, Loca Luna is the perfect venue for all.

• Spaces for 180-800 Guests
• 1 Theater
• 2 Event Spaces

Cobb Energy Center is the ideal site for kicking off your event planning process for your next gathering. Consider hosting your visitors at Cobb Energy Center in Atlanta, where you will have the opportunity to impress your guests with a spectacular location. Cobb Energy Center is the ideal venue for hosting themed parties, business banquets, galas, black tie balls, and wedding receptions, among other events. Cobb Energy Preforming Arts Center is the perfect place to have a memorable event. The Ballroom's rich wood finishes, magnificently adorned wall coverings, deep-toned Axminster-woven wool carpet, and nine glittering handcrafted chandeliers work together to create an ambience of brilliance and warmth. The Ballroom is equipped with a variety of amenities that enable event planners to express their individuality. In addition to fixtures that can be targeted in a variety of directions and adjusted to different intensity levels, the space has more than 200 lights. A series of LED lights concealed beneath ceiling soffits may be programmed to generate a glow in any of 64 distinct hues, which the frosted chandeliers reflect to improve the mood of an event. The effects of distinctive furnishings, tabletop settings, and decorative elements on the Ballroom's cachet should not be overlooked when establishing the Ballroom's reputation. Comfortable flex-back chairs, sleek, modern-design flatware, frosted water glasses, exquisite china, linen tablecloths and napkins—all of these elements contribute to the appearance of prestige and the creation of an elite environment.

• Spaces for 1,200 Guests

Midtown Events Center occupies a fully renovated former church in Bowling Green, Kentucky, nestled near downtown off Fairview Avenue — recognized by the historic Bowling Green water tower nearby. The building retains its original hardwood floors, stained glass windows, and chandeliers, offering a classic architectural backdrop that suits everything from intimate ceremonies to milestone celebrations. The venue hosts weddings, receptions, business meetings, conferences, and private parties. An on-site bridal suite and catering kitchen are included, and outside vendors are welcome, giving clients the flexibility to bring in their preferred caterers, florists, and entertainment. Dedicated parking and both indoor and outdoor space round out the practical side of the facility. Day-of coordination, decorating services, and set-up consultation are available through the venue team, led by Donna, who brings more than 20 years of event planning and decorating experience to each event.

• Spaces for 40-60 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Miller Union is named after the former Miller Union Stockyards that occupied one full city block in Atlanta’s old meatpacking district in the 1880s. The stockyard building suffered a fire after the turn of the century and was later replaced with an industrial warehouse, typical of the time period. Miller Union, the restaurant, was founded in 2009 by Steven Satterfield and Neal McCarthy in the refurbished warehouse that sits on the former site and has since contributed to the evolution of the neighborhood. They created a rustic, yet modern atmosphere with a respect for the history of the neighborhood, and an anchor for the emerging one. Miller Union has since become an Atlanta mainstay. Satterfield cooks in an organic way by reacting to the ever-changing harvest of the seasons. The restaurant embodies an authentic approach to farmstead-inspired cooking, in which ingredients drive the menu. Satterfield’s style is simple, but creative and refined, with a lean on Southern history. McCarthy’s acclaimed wine program complements the style of Satterfield’s cooking with a dynamic wine list that focuses on small producers with sustainable farming practices.

• Spaces for 250 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

Welcome to the Hotel Colee, a feather in the city of Buckhead's hat. This location is a celebration of our immediate environment. Get down to work or have a good time since, in this place, everyone is someone and you always have permission to put your feathers on your cape or hat. Come on in, the atmosphere is pleasant. This is the location where Atlanta manifests itself, and anyone and everyone is welcome. Thank you for considering the Hotel Colee to host your Celebration! Are you looking for a place that is worthy of your affection? Plan an indoor or outdoor wedding at one of our exquisite Buckhead venues that is intimate, safe, and stunning all at the same time. Spend your wedding day spilling out onto our spacious outdoor terrace or toasting from the rooftop as our professional event planners ensure that everything goes off without a hitch. Celebrate In Buckhead, gather your most distinguished guests, put on your finest attire, and make it a night to remember on one of our hotel's open air outdoor terraces, soaring rooftop locations, or sophisticated indoor settings. This is the venue for a wedding, reunion, or Atlanta party that will be remembered forever. Meet Show out in our stunning lobby venue, spill outdoors and kick off your Atlanta meeting in a place where creativity runs deep. The Hotel Colee in Buckhead, Georgia has 10,000 square feet of customizable indoor and outdoor event space, which is ideal for safe get togethers with your guests.

• Spaces for 205-250 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Welcome to the most innovative approach to contemporary Mexican and Latin American food in Downtown Atlanta. At our luxury Downtown restaurant, enjoy delectable food and exceptional service — there's nothing else like it in Atlanta. Lunch tortas and taquito spreads, seasonal guacamoles and salsas, and rich chicken mole Oaxaca are all made with bright, fresh ingredients and regional inspirations. While we give a destination dining experience to remember, sample from the city's most comprehensive tequila selection and an imaginative cocktail program. Rambo spent the previous four years as a sous chef in Alma's kitchen, learning the complexities of current Mexican cuisine. He has a foundation in pan-European cooking techniques. Rambo brings his strong work ethic, time-tested leadership abilities, and profound love of Latin food to Alma's kitchen now that he's in charge. Alma Cocina Buckhead is a contemporary version of Mexico's rich textures and hues, with soaring ceilings, concrete flooring, and modern industrial design components such as wood, concrete, and steel slats, which are accented by plants and corten planters. Patio seating and numerous semi-private spaces are available at Alma Cocina Buckhead.

• Spaces for 90-120 Guests

Atlas’ sophisticated setting within The St. Regis Atlanta offers a cultured and inviting venue ideal for intimate private events, group dining, corporate meetings, or rehearsal dinners, complete with customizable menus to suit your event’s needs. We graciously accommodate private and semi-private parties of 10 to gatherings of 90 guests within the Atlanta area.

• Spaces for 150-300 Guests
• 1 Event Space

In addition to wedding ceremonies and receptions, the Mary Gay House is a one-of-a-kind location that is ideal for birthday parties, baby and bridal showers, and class reunions, among other events. In this historically and architecturally significant property, guests will be treated to a one-of-a-kind event. Celebrate any event in a beautiful, private environment in the heart of downtown Decatur. The big outside patio is ideal for both the ceremony and reception portions of a wedding. There are additional different dining rooms, banquet rooms, and a front parlor with fireplaces to choose from as well. In the historic Mary Gay House, you may plan the wedding of your dreams while learning about Atlanta's history. In the 1820s, the MARY GAY HOUSE was built in Decatur, Georgia, and it is now a historic landmark. Mary Ann Harris Gay, the home's most renowned resident, is commemorated in the house's name (1828-1918). The Southern novelist is most known for penning Life in Dixie During the War, a first-person account of the American Civil War that was published in 1865. Mary Gay recalls a series of daring activities, including her treks beyond Union lines to acquire food and clothes for women and children in war-torn Decatur, which she describes in her book. Several of the world's greatest authors have been influenced by Mary Gay's writings, including Margaret Mitchell, who used some of her poetry to construct settings in Gone With the Wind and Mark Twain, who used some of her poetry in Tom Sawyer.

• Spaces for 100-150 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

A two-story restaurant-style room with built-in bars on the lower level and towering ceilings on the upper level, accessed by a grand staircase. Centennial Olympic Park is visible from the stylish space, which makes it an excellent venue for corporate or social occasions. With a sophisticated ambiance and exquisite service, Legacy Test Kitchen can accommodate cocktail parties for up to 150 people and seated dinners for up to 100 people. Among our many unique features are the following: • Two semi-private sections with a capacity of up to 50 people each in each part -Extremely attractive built-in bars There are a variety of catered options ranging from tray distributed appetizers to food stations and seated meals. -Beverage options with a flat charge and hosted service are offered. -Choose from a comprehensive selection of audio, video, and lighting options. There is music for every occasion on the in-house sound system. We'd be delighted to fulfill your party needs, no matter how large or little they are or what the occasion is! If you are planning a party of 8 or more people, we strongly recommend that you inquire ahead of time by completing the form below. In fact, Mr. Marvin, the founder and president of Legacy Property Group®, was an early believer in the revitalization of downtown Atlanta. Since making his initial downtown investment in 1994, Mr. Marvin has amassed a portfolio of downtown real estate worth more than $500 million. Legacy was put through its paces in Atlanta, but the company has expanded its scope well beyond the city. Operating teams were formed, and today they manage hotels, restaurants, and special event venues, with a total workforce of approximately 1,000 people. Among Legacy's collaborative resources are its in-house financial, marketing, design, and construction teams, which support the company's development, asset management, and operations objectives. As a graduate engineer working on the docks of the Electric Boat Naval Shipyard, Mr. Marvin's professional career got off to a great start. Mr. Marvin changed his professional path from construction to real estate after ten years in the industry. In addition to earning a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of Vermont, he also holds an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a master's degree in real estate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is a licensed Professional Engineer and serves on a number of civic boards, including the Atlanta Rotary Club, the Central Atlanta Progress Executive Board, the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District Board, the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau Board, the Atlanta Hospitality Alliance, and the Centennial Park District®, where he is the founder and chairman.