Furama City Centre
- Thread starter crayon2512
- Start date
Mine is also Cecillia, what happened? My previous coordinator was Fabian, but he left.
lemonzil
Member
fanglinn, it's a long story despite we only signed up with them in Jan. I hope it's only for my case. She was still ok initially. Personally i feel that i'm quite easy going. always close one eye on how she responds to me. Anyway we only liaise through email cos my workplace not convenient for me to use phone. but time to time, she reponses will be very short e.g. 1-liner or even one word, noted. many times, failing to clarify and answer to my question.
Had sent her an email to tell her how we feel towards her 'can't be bothered' response but ever since then, her emails carries some form of sacarsm in it using words e.g. you started the topic/I have told you when we first met up, probably you forgotten/using CAPS in her emails etc.
I'm actually feeling quite fed up.. she can easily/conveniently forget to reply 2 out of my 10 queries in the email with black and white but i canot forget things she said during first meet up in Jan with no black and white.
Not forgetting incidents like we were given expired complimentary parking tickets during our food tasting (she can't stay to meet us) and serving the wrong combination for our cold dish. No follow-up from her the following day (maybe busy) but at least an email? Also don't have. When highlighted to her, she also didn't bother to check what I've sent to her, and told me that it's based on her records. I had to tell her to refer to the menu I'd scanned to her. The respond thereafter was.. sorry about that.
Had sent her an email to tell her how we feel towards her 'can't be bothered' response but ever since then, her emails carries some form of sacarsm in it using words e.g. you started the topic/I have told you when we first met up, probably you forgotten/using CAPS in her emails etc.
I'm actually feeling quite fed up.. she can easily/conveniently forget to reply 2 out of my 10 queries in the email with black and white but i canot forget things she said during first meet up in Jan with no black and white.
Not forgetting incidents like we were given expired complimentary parking tickets during our food tasting (she can't stay to meet us) and serving the wrong combination for our cold dish. No follow-up from her the following day (maybe busy) but at least an email? Also don't have. When highlighted to her, she also didn't bother to check what I've sent to her, and told me that it's based on her records. I had to tell her to refer to the menu I'd scanned to her. The respond thereafter was.. sorry about that.
fanglinn, it's a long story despite we only signed up with them in Jan. I hope it's only for my case. She was still ok initially. Personally i feel that i'm quite easy going. always close one eye on how she responds to me. Anyway we only liaise through email cos my workplace not convenient for me to use phone. but time to time, she reponses will be very short e.g. 1-liner or even one word, noted. many times, failing to clarify and answer to my question.
Had sent her an email to tell her how we feel towards her 'can't be bothered' response but ever since then, her emails carries some form of sacarsm in it using words e.g. you started the topic/I have told you when we first met up, probably you forgotten/using CAPS in her emails etc.
I'm actually feeling quite fed up.. she can easily/conveniently forget to reply 2 out of my 10 queries in the email with black and white but i canot forget things she said during first meet up in Jan with no black and white.
Not forgetting incidents like we were given expired complimentary parking tickets during our food tasting (she can't stay to meet us) and serving the wrong combination for our cold dish. No follow-up from her the following day (maybe busy) but at least an email? Also don't have. When highlighted to her, she also didn't bother to check what I've sent to her, and told me that it's based on her records. I had to tell her to refer to the menu I'd scanned to her. The respond thereafter was.. sorry about that.
This is bad.. I suggest you to meet up with her one of these days to trash out the things which you need clarifications. Easier for your soon-to-come wedding dinner!
lemonzil
Member
the next time we're going down would be when we need to test all our media files... don't even know if she will be around. She doesn't work after 6pm normally and on weekends.
I been there 3 times. 1st meeting with her. 2nd meeting to pay deposit, was her colleague, Elaine. 3rd time, food tasting, Steve.
hard to catch her too...
I been there 3 times. 1st meeting with her. 2nd meeting to pay deposit, was her colleague, Elaine. 3rd time, food tasting, Steve.
hard to catch her too...
Try to go on a weekday?
lemonzil
Member
i finish work at 6pm and she knocks of at 6pm... pay deposit and food tasting were also on weekdays too... but she just didnt stay to say hi at least?
lemonzil
Member
Hi everyone!
Am here to share about our experience with FCC on our AD - 7th April after we had requested for a change of co-ordinatoor.
I had personally called in to the hotel to request for a change of co-ordinator as mentioned in my previous posts, the experience was horrible especially when our AD was 2.5 weeks away at that time. Calling in wasn't easy, especially to the catering sales department. Apparently, Cecilia is the Snr Mgr and there was no superior in the department apart from her. She was not in the day I called and when I request to speak to someone of higher authority, the catering sales staff who answered my call was not willing to transfer me to anyone else. She even insisted that I leave my name and contact and she will get Cecilia to call me.
Also, her attitude was not polite. I had to call back to the front desk a couple of times before I was transfered to Kenny (from F&B Ops) whom later asked me to call Jovian, the EAM of FCC.
The whole saga came to an end after speaking to Jovian. He called back on time as promised and managed to transfer my case to Kenny. Jovian personally arranged for an appointment for us to meet Kenny soon based on our convenience (about 2 weeks before our AD). Kenny went through with us the details to ensure everything was in order.
He also called Hazali (AV technician) down to meet us immediately when we had queries on the audio and video streaming. We also met Steve at the same time and all the outstanding queries and confusion were all cleared. We also liaised with Hazali on our own for the testing of all our AV files as both Kenny and Steve were going on leave the coming week. Steve had also assured us that everything will be in running order on the day itself.
We could tell that he is very confident in handling banquets. The only thing is that, when we told him that we read about his raves in the forum he somewhat reacted a little over-confident that we felt that he head grew a lot bigger suddenly. Anyway that's just a side note. Kenny had also called me personally the evening before he went on leave and also after he came back from leave to ensure that there were no outstanding issues. Files testing with Hazali was also done in a breeze as he is very experience and could understand what we wanted as well as provide alternatives/solutions.
On the AD day itself, Kenny was at the lobby to receive us when we arrived while Steve was ensuring everything was in order in the Heritage Room for our solemnization. Kudos to Steve, as he delivered what he had promised - just hand him all the necessary documents/deco/items and he will prepare everything. We just check-in to our suite and get ready for the solemnization. True enough, when we went down, everything was nicely laid and well decorated. Hazali was also there to ensure that the sound system is ready. Our lunch buffet at Tiffany cafe was also well taken care off without much worries.
What more, as we had customized our own favors, guest book and AP box, Steve collected all these items as well as our albums from us. Basically, everything was prepared, arranged and done by Steve and his team including our favors. Alex had was also there to ensure everything was in order. He also co-ordinated with my emcees for their rehersal in the ballroom. He was watching the time and guests attendance during the cocktail reception. When it's about time to usher the guests in, he proceed to work with my emcees to do so. We were also later given a 'crash-course' on the march-in. Kenny also popped by at that time to check on all operations being run smoothly. All in all, Steve was almost with us most of the time when the banquet started. He was up at the stage during cake-cutting, just by our table during first and 2nd course, by our side when it's time to change, at the foyer after we've changed (He even gave us alternative for our 2nd march-in), he was back up on stage guiding us on the champange popping and pouring and table-to-table photo taking. Even after that, he was still beside us, asking if we would like to return to our seat for desserts or mingle with our guest. Shortly after we're done, he guided us out to get ready to bid farewell.
Himself, Alex and Hazali were all at the ballroom and foyer until almost all our guests had left. We were very pleased with the entire F&B Ops and banquet team for helping us make everything a success. Steve and Alex even stayed till about 2 am waiting for us to settle all outstanding matters. Most guests also feedback that the service was good. The only thing was that the food wasn't really very hot. The best dish had to be the prawns! Most of the guests liked it too. We had also requested for late check-out on the following day. Although Kenny had informed his front desk, but we weren't aware and it was kind of a waste. He also came by when we were eating and gave us great hospitality. Cecilia came by too to greet us but it seemed like she had forgotten everything. There was no apologies or anything from her.
All in all, it was really a wonderful night for us all with million thanks to Kenny, Steve, Alex, Hazali and team. Great effort!
BTBs with FCC need not worry with Steve around!
Apologies for the long post!
Am here to share about our experience with FCC on our AD - 7th April after we had requested for a change of co-ordinatoor.
I had personally called in to the hotel to request for a change of co-ordinator as mentioned in my previous posts, the experience was horrible especially when our AD was 2.5 weeks away at that time. Calling in wasn't easy, especially to the catering sales department. Apparently, Cecilia is the Snr Mgr and there was no superior in the department apart from her. She was not in the day I called and when I request to speak to someone of higher authority, the catering sales staff who answered my call was not willing to transfer me to anyone else. She even insisted that I leave my name and contact and she will get Cecilia to call me.
Also, her attitude was not polite. I had to call back to the front desk a couple of times before I was transfered to Kenny (from F&B Ops) whom later asked me to call Jovian, the EAM of FCC.
The whole saga came to an end after speaking to Jovian. He called back on time as promised and managed to transfer my case to Kenny. Jovian personally arranged for an appointment for us to meet Kenny soon based on our convenience (about 2 weeks before our AD). Kenny went through with us the details to ensure everything was in order.
He also called Hazali (AV technician) down to meet us immediately when we had queries on the audio and video streaming. We also met Steve at the same time and all the outstanding queries and confusion were all cleared. We also liaised with Hazali on our own for the testing of all our AV files as both Kenny and Steve were going on leave the coming week. Steve had also assured us that everything will be in running order on the day itself.
We could tell that he is very confident in handling banquets. The only thing is that, when we told him that we read about his raves in the forum he somewhat reacted a little over-confident that we felt that he head grew a lot bigger suddenly.
Anyway that's just a side note. Kenny had also called me personally the evening before he went on leave and also after he came back from leave to ensure that there were no outstanding issues. Files testing with Hazali was also done in a breeze as he is very experience and could understand what we wanted as well as provide alternatives/solutions.On the AD day itself, Kenny was at the lobby to receive us when we arrived while Steve was ensuring everything was in order in the Heritage Room for our solemnization. Kudos to Steve, as he delivered what he had promised - just hand him all the necessary documents/deco/items and he will prepare everything. We just check-in to our suite and get ready for the solemnization. True enough, when we went down, everything was nicely laid and well decorated. Hazali was also there to ensure that the sound system is ready. Our lunch buffet at Tiffany cafe was also well taken care off without much worries.
What more, as we had customized our own favors, guest book and AP box, Steve collected all these items as well as our albums from us. Basically, everything was prepared, arranged and done by Steve and his team including our favors. Alex had was also there to ensure everything was in order. He also co-ordinated with my emcees for their rehersal in the ballroom. He was watching the time and guests attendance during the cocktail reception. When it's about time to usher the guests in, he proceed to work with my emcees to do so. We were also later given a 'crash-course' on the march-in. Kenny also popped by at that time to check on all operations being run smoothly. All in all, Steve was almost with us most of the time when the banquet started. He was up at the stage during cake-cutting, just by our table during first and 2nd course, by our side when it's time to change, at the foyer after we've changed (He even gave us alternative for our 2nd march-in), he was back up on stage guiding us on the champange popping and pouring and table-to-table photo taking. Even after that, he was still beside us, asking if we would like to return to our seat for desserts or mingle with our guest. Shortly after we're done, he guided us out to get ready to bid farewell.
Himself, Alex and Hazali were all at the ballroom and foyer until almost all our guests had left. We were very pleased with the entire F&B Ops and banquet team for helping us make everything a success. Steve and Alex even stayed till about 2 am waiting for us to settle all outstanding matters. Most guests also feedback that the service was good. The only thing was that the food wasn't really very hot. The best dish had to be the prawns! Most of the guests liked it too. We had also requested for late check-out on the following day. Although Kenny had informed his front desk, but we weren't aware and it was kind of a waste. He also came by when we were eating and gave us great hospitality. Cecilia came by too to greet us but it seemed like she had forgotten everything. There was no apologies or anything from her.
All in all, it was really a wonderful night for us all with million thanks to Kenny, Steve, Alex, Hazali and team. Great effort!
BTBs with FCC need not worry with Steve around!
Apologies for the long post!
Seems like the forum on FCC has not been active for the past one year.
We have shortlisted FCC because their promo includes free flow of beer, wine & brandy if we booked by 31 Dec 14. (Our wedding banquet expected to hold in Oct15). But we are concerned about the food, waiter/waitress service, hotel flexibility & coordinator. Anyone can feedback about this?
We have shortlisted FCC because their promo includes free flow of beer, wine & brandy if we booked by 31 Dec 14. (Our wedding banquet expected to hold in Oct15). But we are concerned about the food, waiter/waitress service, hotel flexibility & coordinator. Anyone can feedback about this?
flip_flop_lollipop
New Member
My cousin had her wedding there earlier this year. Not too sure about the back-end experience, but as a guest, I can say the food and service were one of the better ones I've experienced.
Thanks for sharing.
Anyway, we have alr decided on this hotel as it allows us to hold up till 48 tables with free flow of beer/red wine/household brandy. The coordinator we had met was friendly too.
Hi everyone!
Almost 6 months has passed and memories of the wedding lunch still vividly flooded my mind. I was not even the bride…lol… I am the unconventional wedding planner for my brother and sis-in-law wedding. Well a lot of my friends would asked me why… simply because my brother and sis-in-law are working in New Zealand and I am the only child in Singapore literally.
I fear the success of the wedding lunch at FURAMA CITY CENTRE (FCC) back then but little did I know it turned out into an awesome wedding for the couple. It started out about 4 months before the actual wedding day on 22nd of Jun 2014. My dad wanted to modify and upgrade the original wedding lunch menu. Through coordination Ms. Cecilia, Assistant Director of Catering, is able to get the quotation and clear this hanging query. This marks the beginning of whatsapp-ing her. Sometimes I would have queries and due to the hectic work in the weekdays, I sms her during weekend and she responded pretty swiftly. She also delivers email within her promised period. There is lot of unexpected “pop-up” along the way till the wedding lunch D-day, Cecilia responded sincerely and gives me an answer with assurance and comfort.
Till a day before the wedding, we faced the problem of having crates of red, white wine and hard liquor, wondering where to store. Problem: Storing it in the wedding suite would not be ideal as there is a hassle of traveling up and down, carrying the crates…Cecilia is kind of thoughtful as she checked with her boss on the possibility of day room. To our delight, FCC manage to make an exception for us to have a day room. This support from FCC eases a lot of problems faced including a room for storing the decorations and room for the bride to doll up. The wedding couple and I are truly grateful for this gesture by the FCC management. Another best part about organizing in FCC are having experienced staffs, Steve and Hazali. Both of them shows their capability in the rehearsal and provide awesome advice and of course, in relaxing the couple and the friends helping out to peace of mind.
On the day itself, the flow of the events were smooth with a few minor hiccups but the staffs dissipate the tension and were able to make this into a memorable wedding for our family. I believe the guests have an enjoyable time celebrating this wedding.
Thumbs up for Cecilia, Steve and Hazali. =)
Almost 6 months has passed and memories of the wedding lunch still vividly flooded my mind. I was not even the bride…lol… I am the unconventional wedding planner for my brother and sis-in-law wedding. Well a lot of my friends would asked me why… simply because my brother and sis-in-law are working in New Zealand and I am the only child in Singapore literally.
I fear the success of the wedding lunch at FURAMA CITY CENTRE (FCC) back then but little did I know it turned out into an awesome wedding for the couple. It started out about 4 months before the actual wedding day on 22nd of Jun 2014. My dad wanted to modify and upgrade the original wedding lunch menu. Through coordination Ms. Cecilia, Assistant Director of Catering, is able to get the quotation and clear this hanging query. This marks the beginning of whatsapp-ing her. Sometimes I would have queries and due to the hectic work in the weekdays, I sms her during weekend and she responded pretty swiftly. She also delivers email within her promised period. There is lot of unexpected “pop-up” along the way till the wedding lunch D-day, Cecilia responded sincerely and gives me an answer with assurance and comfort.
Till a day before the wedding, we faced the problem of having crates of red, white wine and hard liquor, wondering where to store. Problem: Storing it in the wedding suite would not be ideal as there is a hassle of traveling up and down, carrying the crates…Cecilia is kind of thoughtful as she checked with her boss on the possibility of day room. To our delight, FCC manage to make an exception for us to have a day room. This support from FCC eases a lot of problems faced including a room for storing the decorations and room for the bride to doll up. The wedding couple and I are truly grateful for this gesture by the FCC management. Another best part about organizing in FCC are having experienced staffs, Steve and Hazali. Both of them shows their capability in the rehearsal and provide awesome advice and of course, in relaxing the couple and the friends helping out to peace of mind.
On the day itself, the flow of the events were smooth with a few minor hiccups but the staffs dissipate the tension and were able to make this into a memorable wedding for our family. I believe the guests have an enjoyable time celebrating this wedding.
Thumbs up for Cecilia, Steve and Hazali. =)
Wedding Planner
New Member
Fake posting
Hello everybody we had our wedding lunch at FCC and were satisfied with the overall service.
Starting with our sales catering manager Elaine, she was prompt in her reply and excellent in following up.
So no worries that if you forget on the details cos she will remind you when the AD is approaching !
On the AV part, initially we wanted to assign our brothers to take care of it. But after meeting Sazali (AV guy), he gave us great
confidence that he would be able to take care of it, reducing our stress on coordinating it.
Comes to the actual lunch, as what everybody had mentioned, Steve(operation manager) is an experienced guy who ensured everything went well.
The tips he shared with me on the Solemnization was what exactly my JP told us, such as how to hold the ring and pausing for photos when kissing etc.
During appropriate times, he informed the brothers to carry out their duties as well. I had worked in other hotels and he was one of the pro guy i had seen.
He may look stern but rest assured he gets the job done, my father was also pleased at his service(politeness), almost mistaken him as one of our friends !
Lunch food was ok, some hits and miss but better than some other country clubs/hotels i had been to. Service was excellent, especially at the VIP table where
the server paid attention to elder folks and took care of them.
I received lots of comments that the ballroom decoration looked great(horse carriage, they thought i paid $ to setup), food was passable (minor complaints), service was great.
For the pricing$$$ and free flow beverages, it was definitely one of the better deals around, if you don't mind the "cui lobby, carpark", the risk of mixing up with riverfront hotel for guests, and the suite might not the nicest in town though the view was okay.
Starting with our sales catering manager Elaine, she was prompt in her reply and excellent in following up.
So no worries that if you forget on the details cos she will remind you when the AD is approaching !
On the AV part, initially we wanted to assign our brothers to take care of it. But after meeting Sazali (AV guy), he gave us great
confidence that he would be able to take care of it, reducing our stress on coordinating it.
Comes to the actual lunch, as what everybody had mentioned, Steve(operation manager) is an experienced guy who ensured everything went well.
The tips he shared with me on the Solemnization was what exactly my JP told us, such as how to hold the ring and pausing for photos when kissing etc.
During appropriate times, he informed the brothers to carry out their duties as well. I had worked in other hotels and he was one of the pro guy i had seen.
He may look stern but rest assured he gets the job done, my father was also pleased at his service(politeness), almost mistaken him as one of our friends !
Lunch food was ok, some hits and miss but better than some other country clubs/hotels i had been to. Service was excellent, especially at the VIP table where
the server paid attention to elder folks and took care of them.
I received lots of comments that the ballroom decoration looked great(horse carriage, they thought i paid $ to setup), food was passable (minor complaints), service was great.
For the pricing$$$ and free flow beverages, it was definitely one of the better deals around, if you don't mind the "cui lobby, carpark", the risk of mixing up with riverfront hotel for guests, and the suite might not the nicest in town though the view was okay.
We got the same coordinators too. They are very experienced; very nice to get along with. With them around, there's nothing to worry about. Steve has accompanied us throughout the wedding, including table photo taking. Generally their banquet package is value for money. Most of my guests said the food was comparable / nicer than those expensive hotels. The plus plus point is their ballroom does not have pillars blocking the guests. Yup, we are very satisfied & will recommend friends to take their package.
Belling1982
New Member
Any recent feedback for Furama City centre? How is their food and service?
kaya fruitcake
New Member
Apologies for digging up old threads but I didn't want to start a new thread since there's a old one about FCC already. Haha.
Was contemplating between a few hotels but the package for FCC really stands out a lot (if you have many friends who drinks). So here we go.
1st requirement - alcohol issues (most hotels will provide 1 free barrel nia. They will also offer 1 free bottle of red wine per table only) From the drinking power levels of my friends, I estimated that I would need 5 barrels and a lot a lot alot of bottles of red wine.
2nd requirement - Food (as an old uncle , I've been to countless wedding lunches / dinners and most hotels' food are really awful. Hotels like...... S*******l, M***** *** ****s hotel, C*****n hotel, G******d hotel and etc.. Am really expecting more from these expensive hotels.
First impression when driving in - "FCC like around for a long time le hor. Looks very gloomy"
Inside - the main reception area is big and nice with nice looking comfy sofas.
Ballroom - Big, high ceiling, no pillars. I could have played a game of basketball inside as well. Fantastic room.
Upon meeting Sabryn who is the catering sales executive, she began to promote her packages.
Weekday (Mon – Fri) S$858.00++ (lunch, minimum booking 20) and S$958.00++ (dinner, minimum booking 30)
Weekend (Sat & Sun), Eve of PH and PH S$858.00++ (lunch, minimum booking 20) and S$1058.00++ (dinner, minimum booking 30)
The only 1 thing that caught my eye was THAT FREE FLOW BEER / WINE /BRANDY. My first thought is it will definitely cost more but my eyes almost popped out when I saw the prices. $958++ on a Friday night (went to some famous fortune teller who calculated our birthdates and the date which is the most most luckiest is a Friday.). Ok first requirement - checked.
Here are the other goodies from the package.
Eight course Cantonese cruise package
Weekday (Mon – Fri) S$858.00++ (lunch, minimum booking 20) and S$958.00++ (dinner, minimum booking 30)
Weekend (Sat & Sun), Eve of PH and PH S$858.00++ (lunch, minimum booking 20) and S$1058.00++ (dinner, minimum booking 30)
- Candy bar at cocktail reception to dazzle your guests with treats ~or~ 150 pieces of canapes to be served during cocktail
- 2 nights stay at the bridal suite room inclusive of breakfast for two
- 5% discount off the total bill
- Pre-dinner cocktail at the private foyer to welcome the arrival of your guests
- Endless stream of soft drinks (Coke, Orange, Green Tea) and Chinese tea while feasting
- Free flow beer / red wine / house pour brandy
- A champagne fountain on stage accompanied by a bottle of sparkling wine
- Choice(s) of themed-stage decorations, which includes charming floral arrangements along the aisle and distinctive centrepieces to accentuate each table (the wife likes their deco.)
- Decorative multi-tiered dummy wedding cake for a memorable cake-cutting ceremony (standard)
- Two VIP tables, accompanied by modern silverware and themed seat covers (standard)
- Complimentary seat covers for all chairs (standard)
- Waiver of corkage for bottles that you bring in
- Wedding invitation cards (inclusive of envelopes) for 75% of confirmed guests
- Create a lasting impression with charming wedding favours for all guests
- One guest signature book for appreciative guests to leave their blessings
- Full-course food tasting for a table of 10 persons (Valid for weekdays only)
- Complimentary parking coupons for up to 20% confirmed attendance
- Complimentary pre-dinner food for the bride and groom from our delectable room service menu
- Usage of LCD projectors and built-in screen
The wife has managed to convince them to upgrade the helper's room to 1 night as well. =)
Then here comes the 1st bomb. A deposit of $8000 is needed in order to secure the venue. 8k!??? (5k upfront, 3k on food tasting) Places like Mandarin charges only 3k to 5k nia (correct me if I'm wrong). But it is okay. For that awesome package, I don't mind. 2nd bomb arrives short after. No matter what happened during that dinner, I will have to make payment right after even I've said I can leave my card with them till the next day then we can go through. Good reason for me to siam all the drinking but well.. Flexibility is one of the main reasons why you will have recurring consumers doesn't it?
Finally, food tasting day arrives and Steve Teo who is the banquet operations executive is taking care of us. Give this man a raise already.
- My FIL who is sick has complained that the aircon is too cold. Steve overheard it and calls the control center to lower the temperature.
- Explains on what will happen on that day and gave many valuable tips. Also answered our never ending questions patiently.
- Very professional and initiative
- My SIL is having a bad tummy upset so she has no appetite. Again, Steve overheard us and went to get some Po Chai Pills for her. (very touching gesture)
- Ensures everyone is comfortable and doesn't rush us.
The food was awesome (except for the noodles) and it unquestionably beats many top hotels in terms of taste. 2nd requirement, checked. Although it is just a food tasting session and I know the food and services might vary on that night itself, Steve has impressed me with his quick thinking and helpfulness. My wedding is in November and I am sure the operations team will do a good job! Keep it up Steve. =D
Was contemplating between a few hotels but the package for FCC really stands out a lot (if you have many friends who drinks). So here we go.
1st requirement - alcohol issues (most hotels will provide 1 free barrel nia. They will also offer 1 free bottle of red wine per table only) From the drinking power levels of my friends, I estimated that I would need 5 barrels and a lot a lot alot of bottles of red wine.
2nd requirement - Food (as an old uncle , I've been to countless wedding lunches / dinners and most hotels' food are really awful. Hotels like...... S*******l, M***** *** ****s hotel, C*****n hotel, G******d hotel and etc.. Am really expecting more from these expensive hotels.
First impression when driving in - "FCC like around for a long time le hor. Looks very gloomy"
Inside - the main reception area is big and nice with nice looking comfy sofas.
Ballroom - Big, high ceiling, no pillars. I could have played a game of basketball inside as well. Fantastic room.
Upon meeting Sabryn who is the catering sales executive, she began to promote her packages.
Weekday (Mon – Fri) S$858.00++ (lunch, minimum booking 20) and S$958.00++ (dinner, minimum booking 30)
Weekend (Sat & Sun), Eve of PH and PH S$858.00++ (lunch, minimum booking 20) and S$1058.00++ (dinner, minimum booking 30)
The only 1 thing that caught my eye was THAT FREE FLOW BEER / WINE /BRANDY. My first thought is it will definitely cost more but my eyes almost popped out when I saw the prices. $958++ on a Friday night (went to some famous fortune teller who calculated our birthdates and the date which is the most most luckiest is a Friday.). Ok first requirement - checked.
Here are the other goodies from the package.
Eight course Cantonese cruise package
Weekday (Mon – Fri) S$858.00++ (lunch, minimum booking 20) and S$958.00++ (dinner, minimum booking 30)
Weekend (Sat & Sun), Eve of PH and PH S$858.00++ (lunch, minimum booking 20) and S$1058.00++ (dinner, minimum booking 30)
- Candy bar at cocktail reception to dazzle your guests with treats ~or~ 150 pieces of canapes to be served during cocktail
- 2 nights stay at the bridal suite room inclusive of breakfast for two
- 5% discount off the total bill
- Pre-dinner cocktail at the private foyer to welcome the arrival of your guests
- Endless stream of soft drinks (Coke, Orange, Green Tea) and Chinese tea while feasting
- Free flow beer / red wine / house pour brandy
- A champagne fountain on stage accompanied by a bottle of sparkling wine
- Choice(s) of themed-stage decorations, which includes charming floral arrangements along the aisle and distinctive centrepieces to accentuate each table (the wife likes their deco.)
- Decorative multi-tiered dummy wedding cake for a memorable cake-cutting ceremony (standard)
- Two VIP tables, accompanied by modern silverware and themed seat covers (standard)
- Complimentary seat covers for all chairs (standard)
- Waiver of corkage for bottles that you bring in
- Wedding invitation cards (inclusive of envelopes) for 75% of confirmed guests
- Create a lasting impression with charming wedding favours for all guests
- One guest signature book for appreciative guests to leave their blessings
- Full-course food tasting for a table of 10 persons (Valid for weekdays only)
- Complimentary parking coupons for up to 20% confirmed attendance
- Complimentary pre-dinner food for the bride and groom from our delectable room service menu
- Usage of LCD projectors and built-in screen
The wife has managed to convince them to upgrade the helper's room to 1 night as well. =)
Then here comes the 1st bomb. A deposit of $8000 is needed in order to secure the venue. 8k!??? (5k upfront, 3k on food tasting) Places like Mandarin charges only 3k to 5k nia (correct me if I'm wrong). But it is okay. For that awesome package, I don't mind. 2nd bomb arrives short after. No matter what happened during that dinner, I will have to make payment right after even I've said I can leave my card with them till the next day then we can go through. Good reason for me to siam all the drinking but well.. Flexibility is one of the main reasons why you will have recurring consumers doesn't it?
Finally, food tasting day arrives and Steve Teo who is the banquet operations executive is taking care of us. Give this man a raise already.
- My FIL who is sick has complained that the aircon is too cold. Steve overheard it and calls the control center to lower the temperature.
- Explains on what will happen on that day and gave many valuable tips. Also answered our never ending questions patiently.
- Very professional and initiative
- My SIL is having a bad tummy upset so she has no appetite. Again, Steve overheard us and went to get some Po Chai Pills for her. (very touching gesture)
- Ensures everyone is comfortable and doesn't rush us.
The food was awesome (except for the noodles) and it unquestionably beats many top hotels in terms of taste. 2nd requirement, checked. Although it is just a food tasting session and I know the food and services might vary on that night itself, Steve has impressed me with his quick thinking and helpfulness. My wedding is in November and I am sure the operations team will do a good job! Keep it up Steve. =D
