Hi Chemson and all
The service rendered by Michelle was great. Like TANGO, I also lost the battle on free corkage and free barrel of beer
Looks like they are pretty adament about that; just wouldn't barge despite my reasoning with them about the current consumer mkt recession, even 6-star competitors like Ritz Carlton and Grand Hyatt are already 'kow-towing' by offering reasonable perks to entice the consumers.
I'm glad that the wine/champagne list is ok and prices are reasonable too. About the same if you were to purchase from Cold Storage. It's the beer that I'm a little concerned.
I was taken to the Exec Suite. Unfortunately, I was rather disappointed by the sheer size. I've been to some other cheaper hotels like Regent which offers a larger suite, but for the amount I'll be paying FS, the suite is indeed too narrow. Maybe cos its layout is a bit slanted and the bed they give is only a Queen size bed? How are my Ah-yees going to fit in? SIGH...
Starbright BTB, don't worry about the Deluxe Menu. I was told I could mix and match across ALL 4 menus! Of course, you must be discerning when you swap dishes lah. If the discrepancy in value is too great, you may be charged. But things like desserts are interchangeable.
Now, ladies, I was rather disappointed with the table cloth too. The base cloth (bottom layer) has a design that is not to my liking. I have asked if they have alternative plain coloured cloth to replace it (pending their checking). Was pretty amazed how the supposedly ivory napkins could look 'peachy' under the lights. So suay...this turns out to be the colour that I loathe.
I am beginning to prefer the Crescent Room Foyer as it looks bigger due to a higher ceiling and mirrored walls. But it just can't fit all my guests...
I've also negotiated for free chair covers in lieu of the 1st Anniversary Voucher (which does not have immediate 'impact' to us so we are ok to forgo it), also pending their approval.
Regarding the new chairs, yes, they are indeed new and nice now. But I'm visualising how the wear-and tear a year from now will impact on the maroon velvet upholstery. I also have this aesthstic 'theory': If you are using the FS Ballroom, opt for the chair covers as the room is too sparse, thus drawing people's attention to the naked golden chair legs (which are not too glam-looking). If you're opting for Crescent, it'll look cosy and homely. Just an opinion
As for the tealites and candle lights, it is negotiable with the florist. Adding one candle to each flower centrepiece shouldn't be a problem. They also have glass tealite bowls if you want.
Another observation is that the reception tables at the Foyer WILL not come with skirting. This is because they just bought new furniture to be used for this purpose. If you insist on skirting, they will give you normal banquet table that will allow them to 'staple' those skirting for you.
One last feedback to you guys, the cream March-in aisle at the FS Ballroom, is not aligned with the main door! While it may direct you straight towards the stage, it does not link to the entrance. You either take the left or right door, make a awkward left/right turn behind some tables, inch yourselves towards the start of the aisle and then begin marching in.
In view of the above concerns, I'll be having another discussion with my FH to see how he feels...