Article & Photos by: Joseph R. Castel
On June 12th, over 650 LGBTQ partygoers gathered in vibrant celebration for the 12th annual An Evening Among the Roses, held in The Huntington’s scenic Rose Garden. The Huntington’s traditional Pride event is a classy cocktail party held in its three-acre rose garden, which encompasses over 1,300 cultivated rose varieties and 2,500 plants. The garden party has grown so large, it now extends onto the renowned tea room patio.
“At a time when many institutions are facing challenges to their commitments to inclusion and the free exchange of ideas, this evening reminds us why that’s so important,” said The Huntington’s President Karen R. Lawrence, at the opening of the reception. “The Huntington is stronger, more creative and more relevant because of the diversity of those who shape it and sustain it.”
This year’s costume theme was “Western” apparel in which a handful of guests donned cowboy hats, rhinestone shirts and boots. Most guests, however, chose chic summer attire garnished with creative floral arrangements over the urban cowboy get-up.
The party started with a VIP reception on the south terrace of the Huntington Art Gallery with musical interludes from Gay Freedom Band of Los Angeles. While early evening temperatures hovered in the mid-eighties, the air cooled after the reception concluded. Guests then moved into the rose garden, where buffet tables offered exquisite desserts and drinks.
An enticing spread awaited guests in the Rose Garden Tea Room’s patio — a buffet brimming with gourmet delicacies. Among the offerings were watercress sandwiches, perfectly seasoned deviled eggs, crispy croquets, and salmon crowned with caviar. Each bite promised a memorable culinary experience, a true foodie’s delight.
Bar stations were ample as ticket holders were treated to free beer, wine and invigorating cocktails – Yes, Virginia, there really is such a thing as a host bar in this day and age. And at $20 a cocktail in most upscale bars/restaurants, this event was well worth the entrance fee of $125.
Marina Kohler, Director of Donor Engagement and organizer of the event, explained that ticket sales aren’t enough to cover the costs of such an elegant and elaborate affair. That’s why it’s crucial to have plenty of sponsors on board, like Capitol Group, LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, and in-kind supporters like Trader Joe’s.
Once the sun dipped behind the Japanese Garden, patrons gyrated to DJ music on the makeshift dance floor under a disco ball and a waning crescent moon. According to Kohler, An Evening Among the Roses sells out every year, so be sure to get your tickets early next Pride month.