The Party: Gardening enthusiasts descended upon Old Towne Creek County Park for the annual presale party of Charleston Horticultural Society’s Plantasia. Well before the party began, green-thumbed hobbyists were lined up at the entrance, and some even arrived with their own wagons to load their botanical haul. Guests indulged in savory bites by Thurston Southern Catering as they browsed a wide selection of trendy plants, perennials, and annuals; produce from local farmers; and even plant accessories from local vendors, like Restored Board’s adorable air plant magnets. Charleston Horticultural Society executive director and emcee of the evening, Kyle Barnette, introduced the guest of honor, legendary Lowcountry gardener and botanist Lucile MacLennan. Lucile is a pillar in the community and has been a member of The Garden Club of Charleston for nearly 50 years, a long-time member of Charleston Horticultural Society, and has a scholarship in her name for the horticultural students at Trident Technical College. Mayor John Tecklenburg was in attendance as well, and made a mayoral proclamation that henceforth, April 12th will be celebrated as Lucile MacLennan Day in Charleston. The festivities continued with the annual Iron Trowel competition—during which local garden designers were tasked with crafting an aesthetic container—and Jenn Stringer from Living Colors was victorious.
Highlight: After Mayor Tecklenburg announced Lucile MacLennan Day, she was given a basket of “Lady Lucille Lilies.”
Overheard: “I was wondering why I was the guest of honor, but then I looked around and realized, it’s because I’m the oldest person here!” —Lucile MacLennan
Beneficiary: Charleston Horticultural Society
