January 5, 2010
Mandarin Oriental Grand Opening
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 PĂ©rignon 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.

Jim Murren Edouard Ettedgui Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Richard Baker Pierre Gagnaire Rajesh Jhingon Sylvie Gagnaire Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Sam Nazarian Tina Choi Heather Murren Jim Murren Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Aubrey O’Day Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Rick Faugn Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Vanessa-Mae Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Zowie Bowie Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas
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.

Edouard Ettedgui Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Jim Murren Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Rajesh Jhingon Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

US Congressman Dean Heller Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Vanessa-Mae Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas

Lion Dance Grand Opening Madarin Oriental Las Vegas
Photo Credit: Ethan Miller/Getty Images
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