A Gala Kind of Day

We look forward every spring to the JC Raulston Arboretum‘s Gala in the Garden. It’s a celebration of the garden, a scrumptious feast, and an opportunity to obtain really cool plants. With all proceeds going to support the Arboretum, of course it’s one of our favorite events!

The weather was absolutely perfect, and a big crowd came out for the party. Hoffman Nursery served as a Platinum Sponsor this year, and we are always happy to support the Arboretum and its mission. We share a few photos for you from the 2015 Gala.

Gala2015. Jill Hoffman and John Dole
Jill Hoffman had a lively conversation with Dr. John Dole, Head of the Department of Horticultural Science.
Gala2015. Scott, Robert, and Rebecca
Nursery Manager, Scott Epps, visited with Robert Elder from our Sales Team and Robert’s guest, Rebecca Stubbs.
Gala2015. Magan and Tracy.
Our Sales Director, Magan Agee, and her guest, Tracy Ellixson enjoyed the special Gala drinks. Moscow Mules for everyone!
Gala2015. Robert and Bennett
Robert Elder from our Sales Team and Bennett Jeffreys from our Growing Team kept an eye out to see who was joining the party.
Gala2015. One of the auction tables.
The Gala always has several tents filled with auction items. The goodies include unusual plants, handcrafted items, and hosted events. This table was one of the first to close out, with plants going to excited owners for a great cause.
Gala2015 Jill at auction table.
Jill Hoffman had her eye on one of the auction items and checked on the winning bid once the auction had ended.
Gala2015. Meaghan and Will.
Meaghan Ashley, our Office Coordinator, had a great time catching up with Will Hooker. Will taught landscape design and permaculture in the Department of Horticultural Science for many years. He’s always fun to see!
Gala2015. John with the Bilderbacks.
John Hoffman caught up wtih Dr. Ted Bilderback and Ted’s wife, Linda. Ted retired last year from NC State, where he served as Director of the Raulston Arboretum and Professor in Horticultural Science. He’s consulted with the nursery for years on our potting media and other growing and production issues.
Gala2015. David Hoffman.
David Hoffman, our Special Projects Coordinator, dug in to the wonderful food. A former student at NC State, President of the Horticultural Club, and Arboretum intern, he usually knows just about everyone at Gala.
Gala2015. Guests moving to pavilion.
After mingling, eating heavy h’ordeuvres, and having tasty drinks, guests moved from the event lawn to the entry pavilion for closing ceremonies.
Gala2015. Dancing and ice cream.
The closing ceremonies included ice cream from the NC State dairy, dancing, and recognition of the sponsors. It also includes a big thank-you to everyone who helped make the event happen. It was a fabulous afternoon!

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