A fragrant new year

Taking authentic Thai New Year celebration to the Philippines is the exquisite Dusit Thani Manila (DTMN) headed by GM Prateek Kumar, Philippine Hoteliers Inc. (PHI) president Gerhard Kropp and vice chairman Evelyn Singson. Devarana Spa’s Thai manager Sudaporn Prasertsang and Thai guest relations manager Pattama Pimpisarn spearheaded the sprinkling of fragrant water on the guests’ hands for good fortune. Lip-smacking dishes prepared by Royal Thai Benjarong’s chef Phacharaporn Noinak and guest chef Sopar Photichot made the celebration a luscious affair. The hotel lobby resembled a Thai night market featuring Muang Thai handicrafts, Thai Deli and a kim musician playing the string percussion. The intimate celebration was well-attended by the local Thai community led by the Royal Thai Embassy.

Among the guests who enjoyed the traditional feast were Star EVP Grace Glory Go, PTT Philippines president and CEO Siripong Phoungpaka, Lebanon Consul Joseph F.K. Assad, People Asia editor-in-chief Joanne Rae Ramirez, Thai Airways GM Nivat Chantarachoti, Bangkok Bank SVP and branch manager Phisit Charoenphan, Royal Thai Embassy minister and deputy chief of mission Chakorn Suchiva and United Pulp and Paper Company president and CEO Montri Mahaplerkpong.

Cheers!

An elegant bejeweled wedding

It was indeed a true love made to last as dashing Richard Peter Michael, son of Ralph Peter Michael Sr. and Delia Benitez Michael, was united in matrimony with his lovely sweetheart Richelle Louise Singson, daughter of former Ilocos Sur Gov. and National Security Adviser Luis “Chavit” Singson and Agnes Antonio. Elegance filled the St. James Parish in Ayala Alabang as close friends and family witnessed the joyful union. Afterwards, a beautiful bejeweled-themed reception followed at the Byzantine venue of Fernbrook Gardens in Las Piñas fabulously decorated by event stylist Pido with beautiful wedding details perfected by event planner extraordinaire Bangs Zaldivar. Beautifully-dressed guests were then treated to an excellent dinner prepared by the Mandarin Oriental Manila and Josiah’s Catering, and a fantastic night of merriment. The occasion was made memorable as it was graced by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Among the principal sponsors were Vice President Noli De Castro, Imelda Marcos, Rep. Cynthia Villar, Jose Cojuangco Jr., Quezon City Mayor Sonny Belmonte and world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao and wife Jinkee.

May you have a happy and fulfilling marriage, Richard and Richelle!

Cheers!