All sorts of spirits were on hand when the New Orleans Garden Society hosted Bewitching: Fleur de Gris Gris on Oct. 22 at the Metairie Country Club.
More than 175 costumed guests stepped into an enchanting “haunted garden,” as the ballroom was transformed into a magical landscape where the “spirits” of Jean Lafitte, Marie Laveau, Baroness Pontalba and the Rougarou, as well as the Krewe des Fleurs mingled.
Margaret Orr was mistress of ceremonies, overseeing the day’s program, which included music, tarot readings, fortune telling and a costume contest.
A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the Civic Award to the New Orleans Museum of Art’s Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Brenda Higgins made the presentation, and Thomas Torres, manager of the garden’s planting team, accepted on its behalf.
More funds for the society — which was founded in 1919 — were raised through the Skeleton’s Silent Auction, Mummy’s Mystery Drawing, Headless Horseman’s Hat Auction, Witches Wine Pull and the jeweled Fleur de Lis centerpieces designed by artist Jane Wonnell.
The century-old society’s mission — educating and sharing knowledge about plants, as well as providing support to local organizations — remained at the heart of the magical evening.
Event chair was Ember Mandell.
Fun Fact: In addition to the Civic Award, the garden society provides funds for the Yellow Rose Garden at Longue Vue House and Gardens, as well as City Park Botanical Gardens.
