Marvelous merriment for Marilou Senn

It seemed that the whole Chinatown went over to lovely Marilou Senn’s birthday party at gorgeous Jojo and Henry Zabarte’s chic Valle Verde home; everyone was in their lively "Kung Hei Fat Choy" spirit. The affable Jojo and doting hubby Henry hosted a sit-down dinner for dear friend Marilou. "It’s the least I could do for her, she’s such a sweet and thoughtful person," Jojo explains. Exuberant celebrator Marilou was all smiles; her beaming husband Louie joined the revelry that showed their friends’ affection for this very accomplished woman.

More than 50 guests in their best chinoiserie were treated to a Japanese degustacion dinner. The hosts wanted to arrange something different from what the celebrator serves or caters in her restaurants. There was so much food – from gindara to sukiyaki, teriyaki, tempura, sushi and tofu – that Jojo was unable to serve dessert wines because everyone was already full! After dinner, the guests moved to the courtyard to exchange the latest goings-on and catch up on old times while sipping espresso. It was truly a very happy affair that celebrated sincere friendship.

Seen at the fun-filled festivity were Hans and Vicky Schmidt from Germany, Inquirer’s Victor Agustin, former Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson and glamorous wife Che, international jetsetter Mayenne Carmona, architect Ramon Zaragoza, Olivia Romulo who made it despite her very hectic schedule, Mila Wales, Marietta Copeland, socialite Baby Fernando, Bambi Harper and several others.

Everybody had an incredibly good time, especially the cheerful celebrator. Happy birthday, Marilou! you are one of a kind!

* * * Partner In Style

Astute and dignified businessman Oscar Reyes co-hosted with BMW Philippines president Mark Gilbert an intimate cocktail party to laud BMW Phils. for its commitment to continue and increase its investments on Philippine shores. Oscar, who is as distinctive and particular as he is highly respected in the business world, dictated that the venue be unique and very exclusive. Being the former chairman of Shell Philippines, member of the Tower Club board of governors and a known business leader, Oscar knows how important to always give only the best to friends and business associates. That is why he was the fitting co-host to BMW’s by-invitation-only party where select guests enjoyed cocktails, amiable ambience and unobtrusive service from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel’s catering department.

In organizing this event, he got the full support of the dapper, creative and energetic BMW Philippines president Mark Gilbert, who has committed the stay of BMW investments in the country despite the present economic situation. Guests flocked to the BMW Club 7 at the Enterprise Center in Makati and were given the rare treat of viewing and experiencing the new BMW 7 series, the 735Li and 745Li models. These models are considered the most advanced set of luxury cars in the world with its plush seats, spacious interior, self-leveling pneumatic rear suspension and optional rear seat air-conditioning. Admittedly, the best driving experience in the world!