Garden Party

"Our Dream Garden"

A beautiful spring day, an exciting fashion show, and the companionship of friends old and new. These were a few of the reasons to celebrate "Our Dream Garden," the annual Garden Party held on May 13 to benefit the Barber National Institute. The theme is a reflection of the many hopes and dreams nurtured for the more than 3,500 children and adults served by the Institute.

Chairperson Sara Mead worked with her committee to plan an afternoon of fun attended by more than 330 guests. The highlights of the day included style shows featuring dressy attire from Bridal Elegance, and casual spring and summer wear from Coldwater Creek.

The outfits were modeled Emily Hutchinson, Pam Adams, Lisa Rinderle, Laurie Bretz, Suzie Allison, Mary Therese Chiacchini, Jeanne Rahill, Mary Pistorio, Julie Sanner, Mary Scolio, Trudy Rydzewski and Jean Peterson.

Escorting the models on their trip down the runway were Zack Silvis and Alan Poole, senior-high age students at the Barber National Institute, along with their classroom aides Connor McNamara and Phillip Mannarelli and Institute staff Jared Delio and Brian McGuire. The gentlemen were decked out in tuxedos furnished by Bridal Elegance.

The style show was coordinated by Kim McCormick, Michelle Harkins and Pam Baker.

Guests were also treated to free spa services from Ambridge Rose Spa and Salon, including hair extensions, hand massages and a massage chair.

Students from throughout the Barber National Institute contributed to this year’s party through the creation of table centerpieces. The youngsters painted flowers and trellises that were added to live flowers at every table. Every centerpiece also include photos of the students.

Another new feature was the raffle of a patio set featuring a table, four chairs, an umbrella, and all the trimmings for summer. The American-made set from The Patio Shop was won Mary Pat Robie.

Rounding out the activities was a raffle of 19 baskets chaired by Esther Gallager. The elaborate baskets featured themes such as gardening, cooking and summertime activities.