An affair to remember
As expected, the Chaine Des Rotisseurs year-end Christmas gala dinner was simply spectacular.
The much-anticipated, well-attended celebration, held at the grand ballroom of the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel, adopted a Belle Epoque theme.
The warm welcome by the personable general manager Hans Hauri and his charming wife Bo Hauri, in an Arcy Gayatin creation, together with the property’s resident manager Julie Najar, purchasing manager Dottie Adlawan and Vicky Lontok, set the evening’s mood — one of graciousness and elegance.
Several statuesque models in flowing gowns of chiffon and lace, bows and ruffles ushered the invitees to the grand staircase that led to the foyer were champagne and cocktails were served.
French honorary consul in Cebu, successful entrepreneur and La Chaine’s Bailli Delegue for the Philippines Michel Lhuillier and his philanthropist wife Amparito Lhuillier, (awesome in a champagne Chantilly lace original by daughter Monique Lhuillier), were all smiles.
Manila-based Rey Villar, the able president of Marco Polo Plaza, and his wife Carol Villar together with Philippine Ambassador to Italy Philippe Lhuillier, his wife Edna Lhullier and Federico Borromeo, Baille de Manila and his bubbly wife Josephine Borromeo flew into town for the occasion.
Guests marveled and sighed at the breathtaking sight: two long tables were beautifully draped in exquisitely embroidered white linens, with crystal goblets, the finest of cutlery and the carefully put together centerpieces adorned with colorful blooms and tropical appetizing fruits.
Executive chef Luke Gagnon and his highly talented and efficient team surprised everyone with a sumptuous menu that was delicately chosen and meticulously prepared. The meal and service achieved a perfect balance of unforgettable flavors topped by impeccable service.
Entertainment included inspired performances by baritone Jack Salud, concert pianist Jovianney Emmanuel Cruz and guitarist and violinist Katharina Ventic Fehringer.
Much applauded was the in-demand San Diego Dancers clad in creative costumes made from indigenous materials. The University of Visayas Chorale, under the tutelage of award-winning choirmaster Anna Tabita Piquero, serenaded guests.
Making a dramatic fashion statement with their fabulous long gowns were working socialites with substance Rosebud Sala and June Alegrado in an Oj Hofer creation, Vivina Chiu in Ronald Enrico, Iris Arcenas in June Escario and Marguerite Lhuillier in a Cary Santiago original.
Among the ladies of Cebu, admired leaders in their various fields, who graciously adhered to the theme included Myrna Ngo Chua, Agnes Huettel, Mila Demecillo, Teresin Mendezona and Stella Bernabe.
