Local residents take part in New Bedford ‘Garden Party’

Jennifer Heshion
Jul 31, 2012
Harriet's Catering of Marion prepared the food for the New Bedford Art Museum's annual Garden Party. COURTESY RICHARD GORMLEY
Steve Gonsalves, owner of Eden's Florist and Garden Shop in Marion, donated many of the floral decorations for the party. COURTESY RICHARD GORMLEY
The flowers, donated by Steve Gonsalves, helped bring the 19th century Fort Rodman into the "new age," said New Bedford Art Museum Executive Director Jennifer Lagrotteria. COURTESY RICHARD GORMLEY
Art Museum Curator Seth Rainville, left, President of the Museum's Board of Trustees Marilyn Whalley, Executive Director Jennifer Lagrotteria, Assistant Chief of Staff for the city of New Bedford Christina Connelly and Mayor Jon Mitchell were among the guests of the Garden Party. COURTESY RICHARD GORMLEY

On Saturday, July 21, New Bedford’s Fort Rodman was decked out to the max with local flavor for the Art Museum's annual Garden Party.

Marion resident and owner of Eden’s Florist and Garden Shop on Route 6, Steve Gonsalves, donated several of his floral creations to the event.

Newly appointed Executive Director for the museum, Jennifer Lagrotteria, said Gonsalves’ designs were “bigger than life.”

“His arrangements really brought the 19th century fort into the new age,” Lagrotteria said. “He did so many wonderful things. He had 8-foot tall displays and used shrubs to make a welcoming space. It was amazing.”

The party was held inside of Fort Rodman. Built in 1861, the fort is now a part of Fort Taber Park.

Another local contribution to the party came from Harriet’s Catering in Marion, as well as from event co-Chairs Sandra Hewitt and Elliot Thrasher.

This year marks the first time the annual party was held in New Bedford. Lagrotteria said the event has been held at people’s homes in past years.

The museum’s Event Committee organizes the annual fete as a fundraiser for the museum and its art programs.

With more than 150 people in attendance, including the Mayor of New Bedford Jonathan Mitchell, Lagrotteria said the party was “a great success.”

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