- November 23, 2024
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The sun may have set by the time guests arrived at the sold-out Orchid Ball, but the colors of the sun still shined warmly Feb. 9 at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
The theme, “Gauguin’s Sunset in Paradise,” set the tone for the evening, during which more than 550 guests dressed in reds, oranges and yellows were welcomed by Tiki torches and statues. The theme coincided with the living museum’s “Gauguin: Voyage to Paradise” exhibit, of which eventgoers got a sneak peek. The exhibit is now open to the public.
A drizzle of rain moved guests under the tent a little early, but that didn’t stop the party. A few guests started the dance party early with The Robert Williamson Band and Jared Violin.
The first course was served on a scallop shell, followed by a tropics-inspired main course and a conch dessert to follow. The paddle raise was held during dinner to raise funds for the organization’s Family Togetherness Program. This program helps provide children a chance to see the gardens and learn about the holistic benefits of nature that they might not get otherwise.
The ball ended with more dancing to a live band and an after-party in Michael’s on the Bay at Selby Gardens.