Pinoy Life At Large

Last May 13, 2008, I was invited to witness the first Nokia Mobile Entrepreneur Awards at the Makati Shangri-la hotel. The event (already blogged by Noreen) showcased not only admirable entrepreneurs who have made it big despite meager resources, but also the Shangri-la brand of service along with Nokia Philippines’ gracious hospitality and excellent public relations. Though there are some companies that have an innate disdain for bloggers (most especially food bloggers), Nokia Philippines has always been very friendly to bloggers and have always included us in their guest list. Hats off to Nokia Philippines!

Unlike most events that are held in the evenings, this awards night served only cocktails, no dinner. However, none of us went home hungry. Not only did they stick to the schedule, the organizers were courteous enough to feed the guests BEFORE the awarding ceremonies and program. Even then as the program started and ended, the buffet table was still being refilled as latecomers continued to grace the event. As F&B practitioner and food service guru Christine Nunag said, “it is common courtesy to feed guests on time/keep their comfort in mind, sponsors or not.“

Seeing that there were peanuts and chips on each table (there were no chairs just high tables), I knew that the organizers had the comfort of their guests in mind. No, I didn’t eat the peanuts, but there were chips to keep my stomach from grumbling, as it was already 7.00 pm, dinnertime for most people. Refreshments welcomed anyone who went through the door, something cold and tall to go with the nuts and chips. After 20 minutes, the buffet was declared open and people slowly lined up. Since most (or all) of the guests were professionals, everyone was mingling and talking about the awards program that was to take place AFTER eating. We were all there for the awards and the organizers did not need to take our appetites hostage just to ensure that we would listen to the master of ceremonies, who happened to David Celdran, an eloquent and knowledgeable speaker. It was so good to watch a program with a host who wasn’t snickering through a loudspeaker and was properly garbed.

Sorry no pictures of the other food, just the dessert. Not because the food isn’t good, it’s because there was too much food to photograph, so I decided to highlight the colorful desserts.

This wonderful event is a clear example of how guests should be treated. I am very thankful to Nokia Philippines for treating us well. Can’t wait for the 2nd Nokia Mobile Entrepreneur Awards. Also congratulations to Technominds Inc for bagging first place!