GARDEN GALA ENCHANTS EAST COUNTY

Water Conservation Garden Hosts Second Annual Flagship Fundraiser

By Reema Makani Boccia

October 31, 2015 (Rancho San Diego)--The Water Conservation Garden in El Cajon wowed attendees at its second annual “Enchanted Garden Gala” on Saturday, October 17 with an evening filled with delectable food and captivating entertainment all while supporting the East County institution. The event theme ‘Water – More Precious Than Gold’ was prevalent throughout the event, particularly striking a note with California’s current drought.

“We were thrilled with the overwhelming support and feedback we have received regarding this event,” said Water Conservation Garden Executive Director John Bolthouse. “Our beautiful Garden lends itself exceptionally well to hosting events, and we are thrilled our gala has been so well received in East County.”

Nearly 200 guests began the evening by trekking through the maze of The Garden, around each corner of which awaited enchanting creatures by the performance group Nomad Artz. Gala performers included gnomes, mermaids, contortionists, artists on stilts, magicians and even a unicorn.

The event raised more than $85,000 for The Garden’s programs. Event proceeds will benefit The Garden’s botanical collection care, exhibit upkeep, and education programs, including the award-winning “Ms. Smarty-Plants™” water conservation education program that reaches more than 63,000 children and adults annually.

“ Ms. Smarty-Plants™ is a nationally recognized and award-winning program that The Garden is exceptionally proud of,” said Bolthouse. “The program spreads the message of conservation, water-wise living and influences an entire generation to appreciate water for the precious resource that it is.”

Catering was provided by Continental Catering, who featured wine and appetizer stations as well as a luxurious seated dinner that satisfied the palette of even the most discerning foodie. The event also featured an extensive silent auction, live auction and a “Ms. Smarty-Plants™” performance. Attendees also got to take home a custom-made glass coaster, courtesy of Fusion Glass in La Mesa,  that had a leaf from The Garden imprinted on it.

 “We were fortunate to also have the support of a number of East County businesses as well as more than 70 Garden volunteers who worked for nearly a year to help execute this event, and we are so grateful for everyone’s support,” said Bolthouse.   

For more information about The Water Conservation Garden or to learn about resources that can help you with your water-wise landscaping needs, please visit www.TheGarden.org or call 619-660-0614.