Glitz and glamour at Hospitality Gala

Karrie Williams, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

The Gleaner's Hospitality Jamaica lived up to its promise of showcasing glitz and glamour at its inaugural industry awards gala, held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, on Saturday, October 25.

"Tonight, as I got dressed, I felt as though I was going to the Oscars," was how The Gleaner's Hospitality Jamaica's 10th Anniversary Awards was aptly described by Half Moon's Courtney Thompson. He was among the scores of major tourism players who turned out for the event.

On arrival, guests walked the red carpet to be greeted by photographers and videographers who captured the moment in true paparazzi style.

Black was the dominant colour of the night, which was ruled by exquisite fashion as industry players came out to celebrate their achievements. There was fierce competition among the women who sported several designer looks, complete with matching accessories.

Cache's fashion house was, by far, the night's most celebrated, with Dollis Campbell, social secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister, leading the way in a flowing, ankle-length, red, off-the-shoulder dress. Her elegant look was completed with a black and silver clutch purse and corresponding high heels.

Campbell said she had to look her best for this special occasion.

"Well, I knew the awards would be simply glitzy and glamorous and I decided to go with my favourite colour - red. I knew this dress by Cache would just do it," she gushed, adding, "It's so important to recognise those that have worked hard in the industry, and Hospitality Jamaica is our trade piece that keeps us up to date on what is happening in the industry. So I knew this was going to be a very important function."

Senior
Gleaner Writer and Hospitality
Jamaica Coordinator, Janet Silvera, was not to be left out.
Also wearing Cache, she was head-to-toe gorgeous in a body-hugging
ankle-length, black and white dress, complete with matching
heels.

Of course, the men were not to be outdone, and
though not as fashionably represented as the women, there were some who
stood out, including Robin Russell, proprietor of Robin's Prime Steak
House, and Daniel Llinas, general manager at the Iberostar Grand, Rose
Hall. Both men were clad in suits that were perfectly fitted,
highlighting their lean physiques.

But if there was an
award for the best dressed male of the night, Half Moon's Courtney
Thompson would most likely emerge the winner. He wore a custom-made,
three-piece, black and white suit made by Earl's Fashion, a Montego Bay
-based, designer. Thompson said he chose the black and white colours to
represent his resort, the Half Moon.

The
Gleaner's Hospitality Jamaica's 10th
Anniversary Awards Gala has no doubt set a trend in the entertainment
arena that will be continue to be celebrated for many years to
come!