Architecture inspired table setting – Photo by Laurel Marcus
The beautiful colors, lush fruits, and incredible orchids of Mexico City came to New York City last night as the NY Botanical Garden celebrated its annual Orchid Dinner at the Plaza Hotel.
The theme of the current exhibition at the NYBG, “The Orchid Show: Mexican Modernism” (the 22nd edition of the orchid theme), is inspired by the works of Mexican midcentury Pritzker prize-winning architect Luis Barragán (1902-1988) and showcases this tropical country with one of the most diverse populations of native orchids.
Interestingly, Barragán was also recently in the news during Mexico City Art Week earlier this month at the dedication of a new cultural center at Cuadra San Cristobal, a home he designed.
Photo by Laurel Marcus
This year, the sold-out Orchid Dinner (sponsored by Hearst and Veranda) changed things up a bit by moving the Mezcalrita specialty cocktail hour and the briskly selling on-site orchid auction to the 2nd floor rather than outside the main ballroom as in previous years.
“Watch out!” I was warned by a party-goer as she nodded toward the long, descended–on–by–hordes, inaccessible orchid table. They’re very aggressive! “I wasn’t immediately sure if she was referring to the flowers’ “Little Shop of Horrors” tendencies or the swarming guests who quickly attached “Sold” stickers to the plant of their choice.
Cactus Tabletop – Photo by Marilyn Kirschner
The unfortunate part of having the cocktail hour spread far from the ballroom was that it was not really possible to know who designed which table, and it was much harder to interact with the designer or to learn about the individual design inspiration. That’s what Instagram is all about these days.
John Goodman – Photo by Marilyn Kirschner
One of the designers who stood out and whom I recognized from two years ago was John Goodman of JL Goodman Designs. He wore a sailor suit similar to his fit from before, but this time emblazoned with black and white beetles, which were echoed in his table design.
Banana Tree – Photo by Marilyn Kirschner
Many designers interpreted the South of the Border theme in an overripe fruit tableau, suggesting a Frida Kahlo painting accompanying the florals. Open melons of every variety were featured on several tables and even a tablescape with bananas hanging from the orchid branches. I overheard one guest tell the artist they had provided a ready appetizer in case the meal took a while.
Laurel Marcus – Photo by Marilyn Kirschner
As always, there was plenty of beauty to behold – both the surroundings and the attendees seem to outdo each other more each year. Maybe the need to compete with the natural splendor of the flowering plants sparks a sartorial competition with guests to disregard the “cocktail attire” dress code in a move towards creative black tie.
Photo by Marilyn Kirschner
All manner of floral frocks and headpieces abounded, as did several women wearing almost bridal white long gowns. It felt especially festive, as the weather has been quite warm these last few days, especially for late February, and people are feeling that early spring fever. The coat-check attendees were about as busy as the Maytag repairman.
Naturally, dinner had a Mexican flavor, consisting of Remoulacha—a salad of heritage pears, organic cider vinaigrette, Queso de Cabra, and pepitas—followed by Achiote Grilled Medai (a fish) with Chayote salad, salsa verde, and Chipotle chocolate cake with whipped cream for dessert.
Sharon Jacob – photo by Marilyn Kirschner
The evening’s Lead chairs were Susan and George Matelich; the evening’s Chairs were Sara Arno and Kevin Cornish. Maureen K. and Richard L. Chilton Jr., J. Barclay Collins II and Kristina Durr, Gillian Hearst, Sharon and Bill Jacob, Jill Joyce, Mary and Garrett Moran, Ravenel Curry, and Jane Moss, and Mr. and Mrs. Edward K. Weld.
Marilyn Kirschner and Joshua Kamei – Photo by Laurel Marcus
Proceeds raised will support the NYBG in its endeavors to “amplify the role of plants in solving climate and biodiversity crises—leading the way toward a better future for all.”
Latest Comments:
My fave is the Gorski. Best look and function to me!
A Marvelous Tribute to IRIS, a one-of-a-kind work of art!
You beautifully, tastefully, and rightfully said it all. I do think Melania’s Adviser Herve Pierre influences her choices.
Fascinating article–fascinating man! Thanks, Marilyn!
LOVE all of this. Thank you, Marilyn. <3