Chicago Botanic Garden

April 15, 2010

The Occasion: Celebrating its 10th year of bringing fine garden furnishings, botanical art, and garden-themed accessories to the North Shore and Chicago, this year’s Preview Evening put its best foot forward.

The VIPs: Co-chairs for the event were the ever-stylish Cathy Busch, Betsy Karp, and Alison McNally. Co-producers for the entire weekend were Donna LaPietra, Jane O’Neil, and Susan Canmann.

The Scene: The grounds of the Chicago Botanic Garden were bursting with carefully selected dealers from the United States and Europe, while garden carts of delectable treats and desserts were wheeled among the crowd that skillfully weaved themselves among the many vendors.

The Extras: The Preview Evening was just the kick-off for what would be a three-day event, which included a special presentation by Italian-born interior designer Alessandra Branca.

The End Result: More than $270,000 was raised for the Garden’s conservation science and educational efforts.

www.chicago-botanic.org

Photography by Larry Miller