ANNUAL GET-TOGETHER OF THE SRI LANKA WEDDING SUPPLIERS ASSOCIATION HELD AT MOUNT LAVINIA

The annual get-together of the Sri Lanka Wedding Suppliers Association was held at the Mount Lavinia Hotel, Colombo on 3 April 2023 coinciding with a felicitation ceremony for Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil appreciating his tremendous service rendered during the COVID 19 Pandemic to the nation and particularly to this industry.

General Shavendra Silva who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest along with his spouse, Mrs Sujeewa Nelson was warmly welcomed to the dazzling evening by the President of the Association Mr Nuwan Sanjeewa Perera, Secretary Ms Nishi Hadunnettige, Treasurer Mr Indika Saman Kumara, Advisor Mr Ubaya Bandara, and members of the association.

The service of the CDS as the Head of the National Operation Centre for Prevention of the COVID-19 (NOCPC) Pandemic was thankfully appreciated during the gathering. It was also highlighted that the visionary initiatives of the NOCPC headed by General Shavendra Silva permitted to ease of the restrictions on events starting from weddings that helped ensure the livelihood of those working in the industry.

Addressing the distinguished gathering as the Chief Guest, the CDS expressed his gratefulness to serve along with this industry where the members of this association readily extended their support to the betterment of the nation and its people during the much challenging times of the country; the COVID-19 pandemic. On the same occasion, General Shavendra Silva also expressed that he was happy to witness this lucrative industry that was falling apart along with other industries in the pandemic-hit country is again revitalising on par with international standards.

During the speech, the CDS emphasized that this is a profession that demands unique skills and imagination that only a few is born with. He further added that the rare gift of the event coordinators and suppliers form an extraordinary, magical, and forever memories whilst serving the hopes, desires, and aspirations of the clients. It is their touch that creates every event a cherished memory that will endure for a lifetime. Concluding the speech, the CDS thanked them for the exquisite felicitation bestowed upon his service and wished the industry be developed into more avenues.

The glamorous evening was also attended by Dr. Rakesh Pandey the Counsellor (Economic and Commercial) High Commision of India, Mr Umesh Gautam CEO/MD Lanka Ashok Leyland PLC, Mr Kishore Reddy President India SriLanka Society, Mr T S Prakash President Indian CEO Forum, the Chairman of Mount Lavinia Hotel, a number of distinguished invitees and veterans in related field.