Gala in the Gardens 2019

The Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens were delighted to welcome more than 800 guests to Gala in the Gardens 2019, kicking off the 14th annual Antiques at the Gardens presented by IBERIABANK. The annual black-tie event, part of the Friends’ largest fundraiser of the year, honored Emily and Bill Bowron of Red Diamond, Inc., who are longtime supporters of the Gardens. Emily is a past co-chair of the event and a current Board member of the Friends. Red Diamond, Inc., has sponsored the event’s signature Red Diamond Lecture Series, featuring talks by designers, architects, and landscape architects from across the country, since 2009.  Led by Antiques at the Gardens 2019 Co-chairs Virginia Amason and Leigh Haver and a dedicated volunteer committee, the festive evening included cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts catered by the Gardens Café by Kathy G and dancing to live music provided by Atlanta-based Rhythm Nation. Gala guests also enjoyed a preview of Antiques at the Gardens dealer halls, which featured curated vendors and tastemakers from across the United States specializing in antiques, furniture, fine art, vintage jewelry, silver, Oriental rugs, home and garden décor, and other exquisite items.   Proceeds from the annual celebration benefit the ongoing stewardship and enhancement of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, educational programs, and outreach activities.