Why Galivanting In The Sun Is Not A Good Idea Before Gala Dinners
Just last month, I remember blogging about attending the Entrepreneur Summit 2019 For Women gala. In that piece, I describe my ridiculous peeling sunburn, newly acquired from Discovering Magnificent Mongolia And Recalibrating Myself. Never again, I thought to myself. And yet this week, I find myself once more, searching for long-sleeved outfits suitable for gala dinners to cover my peeling arms from a Hokkaido Summer Of Extraordinary Experiences. Why do I do this to myself?
Her World Woman Of The Year Gala
OOTD & Event Details
For the Her World Woman Of The Year gala, held on Friday, 17 August, at the Shangri-La Hotel, I wore a red long-sleeved dress by David’s Daughter, a local brand, paired with pink Gucci pumps. My seven-year-old daughter, M5, came as my date, in a matching red dress with pink sandals. As it turned out, I twinned perfectly with my buddy, Ong Soh Chin, who wore a black version of the same dress. We gushed about how comfortable this dress is, even to eat in, which is obviously the whole point of a dinner outfit. Speaking of which, the menu rocked. Although the beetroot poached salmon and guinea fowl both photographed better, my favourite dish was the double-boiled superior broth with four treasures.
Throughout dinner, we celebrated purposeful women with strength. The Guest of Honour, herself, Mrs Josephine Teo, is the Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Home Affairs. After Mrs Teo’s speech, singer Riley, performed original compositions emphasising independence and resilience. Later, Her World Woman Of The Year awards were given to two ladies for their outstanding contribution in their industries. The young Miss Annabelle Kwok, CEO of NeuralBay, gave a humble & disarming thank you speech. Subsequently, the venerable Ms Susan Chong, CEO of Greenpac, described her journey and challenges to building her eco-friendly packaging company. In fact, the Straits Times says more about these winners here: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/company-founders-in-male-dominated-industries-win-her-world-awards-for-outstanding-women.
#HerWorldWOTY
As the evening progressed, guests mingled and of course, posted photographs with the appropriate hashtags. I had great fun introducing M5 to my friends. One of my favourite moments was with M5 and the very doctor who delivered her, Dr Ann Tan.
Unbeknownst to me, as I reconnected with old friends, including junior college classmate, orthopedic surgeon, Dr Kevin Koo, my daughter was busy too. Later that evening, I received photos of little M5 with the CEO of finance platform The New Savvy, Miss Anna Haotanto, and Her World’s August cover girl, popular actress, Oon Shu An. I have to say, I’m pretty proud of her for seeking out good company!
Dover Park Hospice Sunflower Gala Ball
OOTD & Event Details
Last night, Saturday 17 August, Dover Park Hospice held their annual fundraiser at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Initially, I had some difficulty finding an outfit that was black tie with a touch of yellow, that had long sleeves. Eventually I settled for a long black gown from local brand, Stolen, with a Burberry trench-coat that had a multi-coloured print, and taupe Ferragamo shoes.
As the symbol of this ball has traditionally been the sunflower, tables were merrily decorated with bouquets featuring gorgeous sunflowers. Dinner was delightful. I enjoyed the appetiser that included scallops as well as the mushroom soup, followed by the cod.
Since the theme was “Jam, Jive, Jazz”, the programme revolved around music. A choral performance showcasing costumes and styling by Raffles Design Institute students captured our attention. Another treat was a stirring set by songstress Jacintha Abisheganaden. Her rendition of Moon River received clamorous applause.
Jam Jive Jazz
And boy did we jam & jive to an evening filled with fun, laughter and all that jazz. Guests thronged to the photo-wall where instruments from a jazz band were set up. As the chairman of the ball was Dr Karen Soh, fellow women doctors & I mobbed her for a photo opportunity, being proud of our friend for doing such a swell job. Some bid for silent auction items including rare whiskies and wines. Others milled around and caught up. In fact, many were still partying when I left for my night shift.
Time Well Spent
When I look back on the two gala dinners over the past two nights, I feel blessed.
For instance, last night, not only did we raise funds for hospice care, we did it together. More importantly, we did so, with verve and joy.
At the Her World Woman Of The Year gala, women inspired one another. I’m particularly grateful that I spent time with my little daughter at this important event celebrating womenfolk. Isn’t that enough reason to jump for joy?
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