Intimate ‘Only at Descanso’ event a success

Educational and public programs offered throughout the year at Descanso Gardens received a boost Saturday night when nearly 200 supporters from La Cañada Flintridge, Pasadena, San Marino and other Southland communities donned black-tie apparel for an evening of dinner and dancing at the botanical showplace.

“Our education mission is largely supported by the annual benefit and we are so thankful for our steadfast supporters,” stated David R. Brown, executive director of Descanso Gardens, in a news release issued by the Gardens. The release reported the fundraiser exceeded its goal.

Boddy House, the glamorous former home of Descanso founder E. Manchester Boddy and his wife Berenice, the motor court in front of the house and the new Sturt Haaga Gallery set the backdrop for the “Only at Descanso” event. Satin-striped black tablecloths were topped by white lilies arranged by Jacob Maarse Florists and the food was catered by Patina Restaurant Group.

As he has for several years, Fritz Coleman, weathercaster for KNBC4 LA, served as the evening’s master of ceremonies and auctioneer, wryly coaxing the maximum dollars out of bidders.

—Carol Cormaci