Questions about visiting the Gardens? Please contact Guest Services Manager Aaron Cressman.

Get ready to make a grand entrance on Wednesday, May 21, as Hats in the Garden returns with a vibrant burst of springtime energy!

Join us for an unforgettable celebration of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s mission, as we raise our glasses to the blooming renovation of our White Garden. Picture this: sipping sparkling champagne and tasty cocktails surrounded by the beauty of our White Garden, a delicious luncheon and the fabulous company of fellow fashion enthusiasts and, of course, taking in the extraordinary and creative hats worn by your fellow attendees!

This fabulously chic annual fundraiser isn’t just an event – it’s a dazzling showcase of community spirit, bringing together over 300 local philanthropists and leaders who share our passion for nurturing nature’s wonders and preserving our botanical paradise.

Wednesday, May 21 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

Individual Ticket: 1 guest, $250

Host Table: 8 guests, $2,500

VIP Table: 10 guests, $10,000

Tables and tickets are limited, so we encourage you to secure yours early. If you’d like to host a table, you don’t need to have your guest list finalized right away—our Development Team is happy to assist you with that in the coming weeks.

New for 2025: 

🌿 New Pre-Lunch Cocktail Reception– Enjoy a stylish start in the White Garden, featuring mesmerizing aerial arts performances from AerialCLT. This will provide an enchanting start to the day while allowing you to experience firsthand the beauty of the Nellie Rhyne Stowe White Garden, the beneficiary of this year’s fundraiser. Restoration efforts are already underway, with new cedar archways, an altar and pillars being renovated to enhance its charm.

In collaboration with ArtPop Street Gallery, we are thrilled to present a showcase of upcycled fashion from their 2024 fashion show. ArtPop’s Upcycling Initiative transforms retired billboard materials into stunning couture fashion and functional accessories. This initiative not only supports local artists but also keeps over 13,400 square feet of vinyl out of landfills annually!

Click here to check out some of the fashion that will be shown.

Special Thanks to Our Co-Chairs, Table Hosts and Sponsors:

Honorary Hosts
Pam Stowe, Pam Warlick & Carol Carstarphen

Presenting Sponsor
Creative Solutions Special Events

Wine Sponsor
Best Impressions Caterers

Catering Partner
Best Impressions Caterers

2025 Table Hosts:

Wendy Bilas
Anne Buresh
Carol Carstarphen
Brittany Carstarphen
Leigh Goodwyn & Lisa Gibbons
Laura Grace
LeeAnn Harris
Juli Miller
Laura Moore & Jami Farris

Janet Sarn
Marty Starnes
Caroline Sheppard
Pam & Palmer Stowe
Sarah Stump
Pam Warlick
Brooke Werhane
Betty Wren, Julie Shovelin & Judy Planer
Barbara Yarbrough

Thank you for your generosity and commitment – together, you help our Garden grow.

For details about VIP Tables, Host Tables and Corporate Sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to Development Director Brittney Speaks: [email protected]. 

Briainna wearing hat with flowers
Ladies toasting at Hats in the Garden
Group posing at Hats in the Garden event
Group of ladies wearing extravagant hats