Mandarin Oriental Hotel opens with a flourish!! Champagne and Celebrities!
















Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas marked the opening of the newest luxury property in the hotel group on Friday, December 4, 2009. The festivities included a dramatic ribbon cutting ceremony in the morning and a distinguished private gala in the evening.

Ribbon Cutting

Taiko drummers rhythmically set the pulse as guests filed in to the richly decorated morning ceremony, hosted on the hotel port-cochere. Speeches included comments by Edouard Ettedgui, Group Chief Executive, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Jim Murren, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, MGM MIRAGE, William Grounds, President and Chief Operating Officer of Infinity World Development Corp., Congressman Dean Heller and General Manager Rajesh Jhingon. A feng shui master inaugurated a bright future for the hotel with a harmonizing ceremony followed by a traditional lion dance. Distinguished guests including interior designer Adam D. Tihany, celebrated chef Pierre Gagnaire and violin virtuoso Vanessa Mae assisted the executives and politician in cutting the red ginger flower ribbon to open the hotel. Guest proceeded to the hotel’s 23rd Floor Sky Lobby for a champagne reception and preview tours.

Grand Gala Celebration

A gala designed with elements to represent 21st century luxury with oriental charm transformed the hotel for an evening affair for over 500 influential guests including hotel executives, entertainers, politicians and media. A red carpet and photographers welcomed guests as a reminder of the appreciation of every invitee. Nearly 400 bottles of Dom Pérignon champagne were uncorked for the festivities, bite-sized spoons of delectable treats and 4000 chocolate truffles were handmade to delight. Whimsical entertainment elements were created throughout the event including a snow geisha on the balcony of the ballroom and a spirited performance by world renowned violinist Mandarin Oriental “fan” Vanessa Mae to wrap up the evening. The crowd in The Oriental Ballroom rose to give Ms. Mae a standing ovation for a performance that included an entire back-up band including a bassist and drummer.