Rachel Louchen reports from Stockbridge. Floral frocks, sun hats and linen suits — Berkshires residents really know how to do a garden party justice. On Saturday, July 25, Naumkeag hosted its annual afternoon garden party, which raised proceeds for ongoing garden restoration work at the National Historic Landmark. Guests were greeted by a cloudless blue sky and incredible mountain views as they enjoyed bellinis by Spirited, SoMa Catering's hors d'oeuvres and sweets from Chocolate Springs. The beautiful location was enhanced by live jazz next to the Chinese gardens and Berkshire Pulse dancers performed on the expansive lawns. Guests took advantage of the favorable weather to wander around the one-of-a-kind gardens, white birches, sculptures and the famous blue steps (four flights of stairs with a series of fountain pools). Was the big turnout for the annual event really because people wanted to support the historic site or did everyone just want to see one of the best views in the Berkshires? Above, Joe McNay and host committee member Paula Moats.
Alberto Goldberger visiting from New York, Matthew King and husband Brian Cruey, who is the site's new General Manager, and Jennifer Kinsman.
Jay Rhind and Chantal Rhind of Stockbridge; Karen O'Donnell and Peter Sheffer of Richmond flank Jim Chapman, visiting the Berkshires from Colorado.
Helga Kaiser, Sheila Thunfors of Stonehouse Properties and Ernest Von Simson; Kathrine Abraham and Lee Abraham.
Director of Leadership and Giving Denise Trapani with the Trustees of Reservations President and CEO Barbara Erickson and Tyler Weld.
Jocelyn Forbush, Chief of Operations and Programs with the Trustees, is flanked by Rebecca and John Schreiber; Trustee member Alexandra Glover and Peter Puciloski.
Peter Gasparrini with Nina Jung of Tanglewood; Naumkeag supporters Ben and Christine Strong of Great Barrington.
Danielle Steinmann, Vanya Tulenko and Michael Rodriguez, all of the Trustees of Reservations; Michael Coppinger and Sarah Voisin are currently restoring the Chinese gardens at Naumkeag through their work at Allegrone.
Trustee members Beth and Bruce Gamble and the best backdrop on a perfect summer afternoon.
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Matteline deVries-Dilling, founder of Lite Brite Neon, one of the evening's honoree of this year's Upstate Benefit adresses the gala from the Caboose's caboose.
- Karen Pearson. Courtesy Art Omi.
Olana senior vice president and landscape curatorMark Prezorski, president Sean Sawyer, The evenings honoree Kristin Gamble and New York State Assemblymember Didi Barrett.
- Oxygen House Photo
