Join members of the Trimble family after hours, to enjoy a Saturday afternoon garden party and and guided stroll through the historic grounds of Afton Villa. Attendees will enjoy a progressive garden tour, visiting four atmospheric locations to enjoy curated cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and stories of the garden’s history told by St. Francisville historians and family members. Attendess will visit:
• The Ruins Garden - An exquisite, intimate garden bursting from the foundations of the original home. Guests will enjoy bespoke old-fashioneds, cheese and charcuterie amongst sprays of salvia, sasanqua, and antique wrought iron furniture.
• The Parterre - The formal garden that abuts the ruin remains a primary focal point of Afton Villa gardens. Mr. Trimble's favorite mint julep will be served with tomato pie tarts and cheese straws.
• The Music Room - Mrs. Trimble's personal addition when restoring the gardens. Visitors to the Music Room will be serenaded by Rebecca Babin, a harpist and LSU graduate with over 20 years' experience. French 75s and sugarcane-cured, smoked duck breast served on manchego flan will be served, with St. Francisville historians present to answer questions and tell stories from the garden's past.
• The Cemetery - Walled around by tall hedges of ligustrum and planted with large old japonicas and azaleas, it forms a secret garden of its own. Learn about the Barrow family and Civil War secrets while sipping Sazeracs, served with lemon rosemary shortbread.
Please wear your favorite garden party attire with comfortable shoes suitable for walking. Complimentary parking is available on the grounds. 4 pm–6:30 pm at 9347 US Hwy 61. $75. bontempstix.com.
