The Barclay celebrated its opening quietly and without much fanfare. The management at the time commemorated the affair with an intimate dinner-dance, which was lightly advertised and aimed at a select few, New York's old money crowd. The intention was to remain discreet in celebration, without attracting too much attention so as to control the hotel's image as an exclusive, desirable destination. There were no politicians cutting ribbons, press agents or Broadway and Hollywood starts making a scene, on the contrary, word of mouth was the preferred approach for publicity. Within weeks of the opening, the hotel converted 100 extra rooms to accommodate the demand felt from transient visitors. The hotel instantly became a success.