2 min read
Those hoping for a reprieve from the grey concrete that makes up this great city often find themselves at the New York Botanical Garden with its 50 gardens, Victorian glasshouse, and annual train show. But it’s the rare occasion when the Botanical Garden is brought somewhere else—that is the precise allure of the annual Orchid Dinner, which took place at the Plaza Hotel on February 26.
Guests began the evening with a cocktail and the chance to peruse (and purchase) the orchids: Martha Stewart could be seen examining minuscule lemon-yellow blooms and shockingly large pink petals. Upstairs, flower-covered stoplights and park benches made for excellent photography, while guests sipped drinks and took a closer look at event sponsor’s flower-inspired jewelry. Then everyone made their way over to the Plaza’s legendary ballroom for dinner, where Truman Capote once held his Black and White Ball. At the Orchid Dinner, though, there was hardly a spot of black or white in the place. Everything was vibrantly colored, especially, the 40 center-pieces made and generously contributed by floral designers in the city and beyond. Each featured the curator’s interpretation of New York: orchid-filled fire hydrants, Art Deco buildings, and the Statue of Liberty among them. (Don’t worry if you missed out, the Botanical Garden’s annual Orchid Show, titled Mr. Flower Fantastic’s Concrete Jungle is open for everyone to experience until April 26). While guests wondered around the room like an exhibition hall, dinner was served: a poached-pear salad to start, followed by Icelandic halibut, and—in true New York style—gold leaf-topped blackout cake and black-and-white cookies served on silver trays. NYBG board chairman Board Chairman J. Barclay Collins II made remarks, thanking sponsors including Wheeler, Hearst, and Veranda. The evening concluded with a bit of dancing, and though there might not have been a disco-ball, the flowers brought more than enough color.
Open Gallery
Dorothy Scarborough (she/her) is the assistant to the Editor in Chief of Town & Country and Elle Decor.Â