A Surprise Fit for a King: Inside Datwon Thomas’ 50th Birthday Celebration

When culture meets class, magic happens—and that’s exactly what we created for Datwon Thomas’ surprise 50th birthday celebration.

Held at the elegant Giando on the Water in Brooklyn, with sweeping skyline views that mirrored the magnitude of the moment, this black-tie soirée was more than just a party—it was a celebration of legacy, influence, and Black excellence.

Guests arrived to the sounds of a live saxophonist, with DJ M-U, Goldfinger on the one twos and were welcomed with curated cocktails and luxe ambiance. The energy was electric as attendees mingled, took in the waterfront view, and anticipated the moment of the night.

Then came the moment: Datwon’s grand entrance, set to “Champagne Life” by Ne-Yo. As the music hit, guests raised their glasses, the lights shifted, and the room erupted in cheers. It was a moment frozen in time—a powerful tribute to a man whose impact on media, music, and culture spans decades.

But that was just the beginning.

From there, the night continue with Caribbean dance performances by The Steam Team, igniting the dance floor and setting the tone for a high-energy, joy-filled evening. A custom 6-ft 3D backdrop set the scene for photo ops and media moments, created by Styled By Brittz while a carefully curated menu and signature drinks kept guests indulging all evening long.

Every design detail— from the black and gold table decor to the elevated layout of the room—was intentionally crafted to reflect Datwon’s bold personality, timeless style, and the richness of the culture he’s helped to elevate.

This celebration was masterfully produced by EbonyCattouse Events, with creative contributions from an all-star team of Black-owned vendors. Special thanks to K’s Event Decorations, the floral designer behind the dramatic and elegant floral installations that added depth and sophistication to the evening’s décor.

The atmosphere was filled with love, laughter, and an undeniable sense of pride — for the man we honored, the community that surrounded him, and the excellence that was on full display.

This wasn’t just a milestone party — it was a moment in history.

Photos provided by Stay N Focus Images

Catch the full video recap on my YouTube Channel: Moments With Ebony