Westin works wonders

Caterer Middle East discovers how the Westin Dubai's newly-opened convention centre managed its very first corporate function.

Four days after its official launch, the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina staged its first corporate function, catering for 400 international guests.

The event was held to unveil Pangkor Laut Luxury Resort, Residence & Spa Village - a five-star multi-module resort property being developed on The World - to potential investors and the media.

The launch was the first big test for the conference team, which is headed by Starwood Hotels & Resorts convention service manager Maria Ruane.

"Our conference centre is a completely new facility with new equipment, technology and staff.

"We were all a little nervous although we're lucky to have a very experienced management team."

The Westin worked with event management professionals Fusion Marketing, which was responsible for managing the launch.

"This was a billion-dollar project and it was the very first event for the property.

"Our priority was to run a smooth operation and make sure that the client was satisfied with the results," says Fusion Marketing executive director Nicki Page.

The first step to organising a successful event of this kind is establishing the guests' needs explains Ruane.

"Our job is to consult with the client on all aspects and then shape their ideas into a realistic context, to ensure that they are happy. Then we can create the things that they want."

This process needs clear communication so that the client is fully informed before decisions are made comments Ruane.

"To serve a six-course meal you need to allow at least four hours and these are the types of things that the client needs to be made aware of.

"Every single aspect of the event has to be planned right down to the last detail, from the arrival of the guests to the menus and beverage offering.

"This has to be taken care of well in advance so that things run smoothly on the day."

The Westin conference team delivers a personal and specific service says Ruane.

"Based on the client's cultural background, we arranged a unique vodka experience that showcased international brands from all around the world, including regional vodkas from her native country."

Choice is very important says Ruane and the Westin works very closely with Dubai's beverage suppliers to ensure that they can cater to any special requests and requirements.

The conference team has hundreds of pre-set menus available for different occasions.

"Our chef de cuisine Richard Glaze and I work on different menus for many weeks and send a meeting planner to the client so they are able to make an informed selection."