Don’t Miss the Garden Party of the Year: “Back in Bloom” 2023 Garden Tour and Showcase House Awaits You!

The Friends of Robinson Gardens is very pleased to present its long-anticipated Garden Tour, now open to the public on May 20, 2023, at The Virginia Robinson Gardens, co-chaired by past President Betty Goldstein, Elaine Stein, and Nicole Antoine. The romantic theme, “Back in Bloom,” along with the invitation was conceived by co-chair Elaine. It celebrates a new beginning and the return to VRG’s beloved Garden Tour after a three-year hiatus. Betty explained, “This is our premier fundraiser where funds are raised for the restoration needs of the estate and the Children’s Science program which has served more than 5,000 children throughout the pandemic years, keeping Mrs. Robinson’s legacy for the welfare of children alive. We are excited to be able to have this event again and hope you can join us. Tickets will be available on our website soon. See you there!”

Considered the most glamorous fundraiser of its kind in Southern California, the tour will feature four magnificent private gardens to visit as well as the historic gardens at Robinson Gardens. Maralee Beck said, “We are happily ‘Back in Bloom’: the blessed rains have helped the parched earth, and the four private gardens – and our own VRG – have emerged verdant, fruitful, and also a-bloom in art & architecture.”

Back at the estate, built in 1911, a truly gorgeous sight to behold is the transformation of select rooms of the main house into visions of enchanting beauty by top florists.  A not-to-be-missed highlight of the event, the floral designers’ inspiring creations conjure a “feast for the soul.”

This year, the Friends are proud to honor famed author and former historian of the Hearst Castle Victoria Kastner as the Grand Marshal. She will be signing her new book, Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing Architect, already in its third printing. An inspiring and fascinating speaker who is passionate about her subjects, Victoria has generously given many lectures at Robinson Gardens to mesmerized audiences about Hearst Castle, William Randolph Hearst, and Fred Astaire, among other topics.

Culinary delights are another favorite part of this elegant garden party. Under a tent on the Great Lawn, Sean Murphy Catering & Events will be serving a sumptuous luncheon. (Sean’s father, Jimmy Murphy, was the owner of the iconic and elegant restaurant Jimmy’s in Beverly Hills, which closed in 2000.) Adding to the delectable feast, Joss Cuisine, an exceptional Chinese restaurant, will be offering tantalizing bites in the Kitchen. The signature coconut cake will also be served in the luscious display of desserts in the Pool Pavilion, along with a plethora of cookies, the Ivy’s iconic chocolate chip cookies and Red Velvet Cake, and the very popular and exquisite chocolates from andSons Chocolatiers.

During lunch, you will be entertained by models informally showing captivating fashion designs.

New this year, will be a hat contest with prizes. Founder of the Friends Joan Selwyn said, “Virginia Robinson was inspired by her gardens, and she in turn has inspired us. Come to ‘Back in Bloom,’ wearing your favorite garden hat, or create your own work of art. Join the fun, and let nature and your imagination inspire you!”

Another prize will be awarded to the winner of raffle tickets which will be sold during the day.  Virginia Newman has generously donated the prize — a resin reproduction cast from Mrs. Robinson’s decorative monkey seat and garden ornament by Virginia’s company, Pennoyer Newman!

An exciting feature of Garden Tour is the boutique on the Tennis Court presenting a curated collection of several popular vendors. This shopper’s paradise will offer lovely fashions, jewels, bags, and unique gifts for the home and garden – a great place to buy gifts for your loved ones and yourself.

Guests are also invited to bid on unique experiences and beautiful items in the silent auction.

Don’t miss this elegant, awe-inspiring day of great beauty and fun — and all for a good cause — preserving and restoring the magnificent Virginia Robinson Gardens and supporting the Children’s Programs that have provided enrichment and enjoyment to children from all socioeconomic backgrounds in our Gardens’ magical setting!

Post by Linda Meadows
Friends of Robinson Gardens Board Member
Editor of the VRG eNewsletter, the Happenings