Talk of the Town!
What an honor and a privilege to be invited to the ‘Circle Party’ at the Botanic Garden on opening night of the Spring Plant Sale, April 5th, 2024. Pleasantly cool and sunny weather with light breezes, accompanied by a venue of majestic gardens, plants, historical buildings including a bird watch deck, Japanese Maple Garden and the heritage farmland and fountains made this evening magical.
There was so much to see as a ‘first time guest’ I could hardly embrace all the beauty of ‘The Garden!’ These plant sales focus on connecting the community with their incredible garden projects. All sales benefit the Garden, which includes student workers, plant maintenance, and improvements of the property.
The Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University traces its roots to the meeting of Daniel (Dan) Bland and Catharine O'Neal in 1914 at the First District Agricultural and Mechanical School, now Georgia Southern University. Married in 1916, Dan’s parents gifted him the land to start a small rural farm. Bland was a self-taught naturalist, with a keen interest in the plants and animals from this region.
These native plants along with other classics have blossomed into the landscape found at the Garden today.
The Botanical Garden (11 acres) is breathtaking! The Garden features unique and endangered plants, which connect and inspire people culturally and environmentally. Many special occasions are celebrated on the grounds because of its historical beauty of nature and education.
This particular VIP "society" event was one of great magnitude for local lovers of plants, nature, and history. The members of the Magnolia Circle (Garden Membership Sustainer level and above) and their guests were invited to the ‘Circle Party’ and the Opening Night of the Spring Plant Sale.
The Circle Party began with a lovely stroll from the front entrance to the heart of the Garden, focusing on hundreds of different plants (of which 75% are local). Trees and blooms of all colors showcased the magnificent, lush surroundings.
The venue was set in a Cabaret style with tables draped with white linen tablecloths scattered around the rows of different plants, flowers, and trees for sale. This allowed for an ideal balance of engagement and event versatility. A light course meal was catered by TS Southern Kitchen, with a delicious menu of tasty stir fry vegetables with chicken, rice, fresh green salad, pasta salad, rolls, and a traveling dessert tray. ‘Signature Botanical Cocktails’ were available at several beverage stations.
Throughout the entire evening, music by Michael Hullett entertained the guests with a variety of smooth jazz, creating a relaxed and informal atmosphere. ‘Stroll, Chat, Mingle and Purchase’ was the theme while enjoying the ambiance of the evening. And I certainly did all of the above!
Wagons for shopping were 'encouraged” but not necessary, as the Garden provided all we needed. Courteous and attentive staff were available to assist with checking out or escorting your precious treasures to your vehicle. Additional overflow parking was available by shuttle. Nothing was left out or omitted. Holding areas for plants, separate cash or check and credit stations to help with the purchase flow -- they thought of every detail! Several of the garden clubs in the area, including Brooklet, Evergreen, and Sprig N’ Dig, volunteered for easy and efficient check out.
Gail Dismuke, a frequent guest of the Garden shared, “It is always a well-run event and a great opportunity to get the first choice of plants for spring planting.”
Anna Beecher, Committee Chair of the Sprig N’ Dig Garden Club, added, “The plant sales have been ‘over the top’ this year. Record sales and a lot showed up to buy!”
Memberships for the Botanic Garden are available at all levels from ‘Select Membership Level’ to the ‘Magnolia Circle' -- whatever suits your personal desires. The Community Is definitely welcome and encouraged to join and see the many benefits of ‘The Garden.’
The Botanic Garden is located at 1503 Bland Avenue in Statesboro.
Check the website: www.georgiasouthern.edu/garden and their social media @botanicgsu for more.
