Strong presence

With a cool whiff from the esteemed brand Montblanc, dahlings, the presence of Rustan’s Marketing’s heavyweight bosses and principals gathered at one of my favorite restos, Mi Piace of The Peninsula Manila, as the fragrance "Presence" filled the place. It is the first perfume from a company known worldwide for its tres exquisite pens, writing accessories and leather products.

"It was a natural eventuality for Montblanc to branch into the realm of fragrance, as it is known for luxury products and strong statements," said Laurence Lautier, Cosmopolitan Cosmetics’ managing director, who was accompanied to Cosmo Manille by his colleagues like Monique Lepoutre, Dianne Watson and Fabrice Prot.

Immediately impressive is the tres sophisticated bottle designed by Franzudolf Lehnert. Presence the fragrance is modern Oriental, the sparkling freshness of bergamot embraced by the spicy warmth of ginger, cardamom and cinnamon, masculine sensuality at its best.

Check it out, dudes, your presence will definitely be felt!

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Another farewell party was hosted by yet another of the country’s mega-hostesses. Chito Madrigal Collantes and hubby Manuel, together with her sister Ising Madrigal Vasquez and popular hubby Dr. Daniel, honored US Consul Sonny and Ceres Busa at the sprawling Collantes garden in poshy-y South Forbes. The Busas are on the way back to Washington DC for a year. Wine flowed during cocktails, after which dinner was served buffet style, excellently catered by La Tasca, with some dishes coming from Chito and Ising’s respective kitchens.

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Remember, palanggas,"A small step of obedience towards our Lord Jesus Christ is a giant step toward blessing." Smile. See you.