The Party: Before kicking off its annual Plantasia event, Charleston Horticultural Society (CHS) offered greenery enthusiasts an exclusive look at the covetable offerings with this al fresco fête. The Plantasia Eve Party, held at West Ashley’s Old Towne Creek County Park, allowed guests to pursue unique and hard-to-find plants and blooms, as well as a number of popular varieties, before the sale opened to the public the following day. Shoppers enjoyed bites and libations from Thurston Catering, and local folk quintet Triangle Bluegrass livened things up with banjo melodies throughout the night. The event also featured the “Iron Trowel” live garden design competition and an array of vendors peddling everything from fresh produce to garden tools and decor.
The Highlight: A moving speech from Sarah McDaniel about CHS founding member and Plantasia organizer Fran Read, who passed away in November. The honoree’s husband, Peter Read, and daughter, Frances Puckette, were in attendance.
Overheard: “Being a ‘plant lady’ is cool now, right?”
Beneficiary: Charleston Horticultural Society
