It would have been a lot better if you hadn't oversold the VIP party. It was too packed; nearly impossible to navigate with pushing your way through people, and the drink lines were horrendous.
The observation deck, on the other hand, was fine. Maybe you should have had the VIPs there.
I'm guessing this was the first year for this event since I don't remember seeing it mentioned in years past. Everyone who has strong feelings about what worked and what didn't should try to set up or join a volunteer steering committee to organize (and IMPROVE) next year's iteration. These things don't arise through spontaneous generation, and new blood/energy/fresh ideas are very important to the long-term success of non-profit fundraisers.
The observation deck, on the other hand, was fine. Maybe you should have had the VIPs there.