A toast to a well-liked couple

“There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved.”  — George Sand

CATS Motors Inc. president Felix Ang and his lovely wife Grace were honored by dear friends in a unique and exclusive sit-down dinner at The Tivoli restaurant of Mandarin Oriental Manila.

A special menu was created just for the private affair, with the dessert, Chocolate Dome centered with strawberry fool, marinated fresh strawberries and pink guava granite, providing the evening’s highlight amid background music by a flute-and-guitar duo — our special gift for the endearing couple.

The mood that night was warm in the presence of long-time friends and simply exquisite as indicated by the special repast held in a place distinguished for being one of the best places to dine in with people closest to one’s heart.

After dessert, on cue, the men simultaneously stood up and presented a petite bouquet of flowers and a kiss to their respective spouses, thanking them for being such wonderful wives. The simple act caused everyone to erupt in applause and a song.  Surprisingly, all the men sang in tune to the popular Willie Nelson song To All The Girls I’ve Loved Before, which had the wives looking at each other with a little perplexity.

Needless to say, it was a memorable evening spent with great friends. We extend our gratitude to Mandarin Oriental Manila general manager Torsten van Dullemen and communications director Charisse Chuidian. We look forward to more of these evenings!

Greetings

Advance birthday greetings to world-renowned violinist and IP Coalition chairman John Lesaca, March 10; multi-awarded singer and businessman Jose Mari Chan and Makati Medical Hospital’s Dr. Remedios Suntay, March 11; Mila Manapat, March 13; Rudy Fuentes, March 14; Bong Daza and Malou Rodriguez, March 15.

Happy wedding anniversary to Oye and Malou Fores and Quitos and Liza Bengzon, March 11; and to Amado and Blanca Santiago, March 13. May your marriages be filled with bliss each year.

So, how was your week?

(For comments or inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com.)