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MiraNila photo from MIraNilaOfficial.Home*
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It's been a while since I've posted a new entry on my blog. I've been putting it off since I wanted to give some privacy and space in deference to the Benitez family before the official launch of MiraNila as an events and wedding venue. But today, I was invited to a meeting at MiraNila by the owner and staff of Bizu and their suppliers before they dive in full scale into operations.
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| The Alcove |
Bizu and the Benitez family have made a partnership that will eventually make MiraNila a hip place to be in. Yes, this genteel mansion done in the Florentine style will soon be opened to the public for very special occasions such as weddings, christenings, anniversaries, birthdays, exhibits, product launches, conferences and seminars. The sprawling villa, once the ancestral home of the prominent Benitez clan has agreed to host your intimate parties with sumptuous food catered by no less than Bizu including a tour of the home (made upon request).
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| the manicured Garden with the Pavilion and CoffeeShop |
Our initial visit with my friends from the Advocates for Heritage Preservation namely; Annie Grace Nicandro Obeya and son, Jace, Mabelle Tenorio, Fritzie Ramos, Yohann Moises and moi were greeted by Bizu sales manager Kate Nopuente and members of the Benitez women. We were ushered in by Ms Petty Johanot and Ms Delia Pineda into the home. As passionate heritage lovers, we inspected every nook and cranny of MiraNila as Ms Petty delighted us with stories of their family gatherings and her years as a member of the Bayanihan National Dance Company. We are grateful for that privilege.
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| View of the garden from the upstairs room |
Today's meeting was of an entirely different nature. Bizu is getting down to the brass tacks to get a feel of the property and to establish the flow chart once they open MiraNila's imposing arched gateway to the public. Standees have been placed out front to indicate the exact location. On the initial plans, the Garden, with its ancient trees may serve as a reception area for big events. The property also has a Pavilion that may be converted as an exhibit hall cum party venue for up to a hundred fifty guests. The Formal Dining Room is reserved for premium bookings of very, very, very intimate affairs.
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| the Pavilion |
I showed staff and suppliers around the house and made a few more recommendations to protect the artifacts and items that can be found within. You wanna see the mansion? You have to pay a small amount to cover the tour. Only a limited number of people will be accommodated per tour each day as they are very careful to limit the carbon footprint into the home. But while you're waiting for your turn, you can sample Bizu's cakes and pastries in a coffee shop that will be set up in the grounds. A museum shop is still in the works. I can assure you, dear readers, that every cent is worth it. You may call Bizu for further inquiries. In the meantime, a formal launch and announcements will be made even before you can even say "MiraNila!"
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| Historical marker |
