ABOUT US
GBU was founded by Chris Hawke in the mid aughts as an acronym for Golden Boys USA. Originally conceived as a water-sports party for a “younger, in-shape demographic”. It has outgrown this niche into a much larger, more diverse international private PLAY party. Whilst it’s original iteration is no longer the focus, Chris’ original mission to create ultra-curated, dynamic, sex-positive, vibrant parties holds strong today. Inspired by the men’s clubs of Europe, GBU has become a relied-upon institution in the NYC gay scene. GBU's STORY SO FAR...
GBU's STORY SO FAR...
In Oct 2022, Marc James met Chris Hawke at a GBU Rush party. Marc had been a long time guest of the GBU parties and was honored to meet the man behind it all and spoke about his vision to take what Chris had created and help expand it. Within 24 hours, they were planning a huge collaborative expansion to Miami.Chris and Marc soon realized that they were an indomitable force and started to work together within the GBU brand with Marc becoming Chris’ chief ops officer shortly thereafter.GBU exploded onto the scene in Miami in January 2023 expanding quickly to Fort Lauderdale prompting the rebrand to GBU SoFlo in May 2023. With alternating parties each month, the scene has been irrevocably changed as a result of GBU’s presence there. Chris’ iconic brand and unchanged vision, coupled with Marc’s experience in production and business, was the catalyst for the next aggressive expansion to the east coast. Los Angeles experienced it’s first GBU party in October 2023 in West Hollywood and mirroring Miami, instantly struck a chord with the scene in L.A. In response to this instant, huge demand, GBU relocated to a more spacious and fit-for-purpose venue in DTLA where it now resides. The future of GBU is extremely exciting and ambitious not only in the USA but internationally — with the recent launch of GBU London and several new US and European cities in the pipeline. Chris Hawke & Marc James
MISSION STATEMENT
The following, is the driving force underpinning everything we do.
GBU’s mission is to create a safe, inclusive, vibrant and exhilarating spaces where guys can explore and celebrate their sexuality without judgment, shame or inhibition. Our mission is to foster a sense of community, respect, and mutual consent, while embracing diversity and promoting the hottest, most exciting sex-positive experiences in the world.
GBU CULTURE ESSENTIALS
Communication
GBU expects participants to prioritize CLEAR COMMUNICATION (verbal or non-verbal) throughout the party. This includes openly discussing boundaries, and expectations before engaging in sexual activity. Communication is important for obtaining enthusiastic consent and ensuring that everyone involved feels comfortable and respected.
Respect for Boundaries
GBU fosters a CULTURE OF RESPECT for personal boundaries and individual autonomy. Participants should honor each other's limits and preferences without pressuring or coercing anyone into activities they are not comfortable with. This includes respecting non-verbal cues and body languagy which may indicate discomfort or unwillingness.
Continuous Consent
GBU emphasizes the importance of ONGOING CONSENT throughout the duration of the party. Participants should understand that consent is dynamic and can be withdrawn at any time. GBU encourages attendees to check-in with their partners regularly and respect their decisions, even if they differ from initial agreements.
Mutual Respect
GBU promotes an environment where all participants are treated with respect. Discriminatory behavior or language of any kind is not tolerated, and all participants are encouraged to SPEAK UP to challenge and address any instances of disrespect or prejudice they encounter during a GBU party.
Education
If required, GBU offers resources and information on consent, as well as information about sexual health and safety. GBU strives to EMPOWER PARTICIPANTS with all relevant knowledge and tools to navigate the aforementioned issues in order to enhance the overall enjoyment and safety of the GBU experience.