Oh, Hello
YOU KNOW HOW they say time flies when you’re having fun? Well, the past few weeks must have had passes for a hypersonic jet ride — everything whizzed by so fast, my memories haven’t quite kept up. I must have had a ball.
We did indeed have our Prestige Ball in September, celebrating this magazine’s 18th anniversary. That night, too, seemed to be over in a flash — it was that much fun! I recall arriving at The Ritz- Carlton, Millenia Singapore, still feeling new to the team (it was only Work Day No. 12 for me) and slightly self- conscious. I remember my colleagues Lionnel and Choong pinning, then deftly sewing me into my gown, which had arrived just two nights before after delays at customs and turned out to be a dress size too large. No wardrobe malfunctions on my part that night and nothing everyone could not unsee, thanks to those amazing guys.
There wasn’t enough time to say hi to every familiar face that night, let alone catch up proper — but we have the weeks and months ahead for that; you know how to find me. It was also lovely meeting other friends of Prestige for the fi rst time, and truly heartwarming to be a party to the warm conviviality all round.
We’re still poring over thousands of photos from the night, so please be patient with us and look out for our Ball coverage in our November issue. We’ve got some photos and a video up on Prestigeonline.com and, of course, you can check out # prestigeball2018 on social for photos from the Prestige fam.
Family — it’s the heart and soul of society, and it’s defi nitely at the core of Chloe Tong’s priorities. Our cover personality, who as an 8-year- old declared she would one day take over her father’s business, stepped o her own career track to focus on her young family. With her at his side, husband Anthony Tan can focus on growing Grab, Singapore’s top-funded tech startup with a $ 10- billion valuation. And that’s the thing about family, isn’t it — it’s about being there.
As I write this note, it’s been exactly one month and a day since I joined Prestige. As some of you may know, there’ve been not a few changes in our company, but I’m humbled and grateful to have been brought on board in their wake. It’s been a busy month. I’ve been so touched by colleagues and friends who’ve been patient as I find my feet, bought me lunch when I’m tethered to my desk, brewed chicken essence when I said I now struggle to stay awake past 8pm, promised to support Prestige and yes, sewn me into my gown. Thanks for being there. I’m adopting you as family.
Oh, where are my manners — I haven’t introduced myself. It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Grace and, to use the words of my predecessor in her farewell note last issue, I’m the new custodian of this magazine. Some of you may already know me from a previous life, and I look forward to reconnecting and getting to know the rest of the Prestige clan.