Tuesday, March 4, 2014, 11:30 a.m.
Historic Clubhouse at Hermann Park
Chair: Laurie Morian
Honorary Chair: Lynn Wyatt
Honoree: Cherie Flores

On Tuesday, March 4, more than 375 guests flocked to Hermann Park to usher in spring at Hermann Park Conservancy’s seventh annual Hats in the Park luncheon. Celebrating the Park’s centennial this year, Hats was a record breaker with $289,861 raised along with a portion of the $731,750 raised in special centennial underwriting packages which included a luncheon table. These funds will help amplify the Conservancy’s efforts in conservation and beautification throughout Hermann Park.

With Hats falling on Fat Tuesday, guests Let the Good Times Roll in the spirit of the day. Conservancy board chair Ann Kennedy introduced Hats chair Laurie Morian and honorary chair Lynn Wyatt who greeted the guests donning fabulous hats in all shapes and sizes, including a frenzy of fur hats and mufflers, nodding to the crisp temps. Mayor Annise Parker introduced the event’s honoree, Cherie Flores, who was a member of the Garden Center Advisory Board of Hermann Park Conservancy and was instrumental in funraising efforts supporting the Hermann Park Centennial Capital Campaign, donating $5 million to the McGovern Centennial Gardens. In honor of the gift, the new garden pavilion will be named the Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion. 

Hermann Park’s Historic Clubhouse and surrounding spaces were transformed for Hats in the Park into an ethereal spring setting by Todd Events. A sleek and sophisticated black and white theme with fuchsia-toned roses, hydrangea, lilies, and orchids created an elegant atmosphere. Adding to the drama were custom ombre’d draped ceiling swags and a wall of hand-painted watercolor paper flowers which served as a backdrop for the stage. Delectable fare was provided by City Kitchen Catering.

It was announced at the luncheon that the 2015 Hats in the Park event chairs are Estela Cockrell and Denise Monteleone. See you next year!