The Sands Point Preserve Conservancy welcomed guests – including philanthropists, artists, garden enthusiasts, business leaders and officials – to its Garden Party Gala on Tuesday, Aug. 1, to unveil the new Hempstead House Garden.
The four-season sustainable garden comprises diverse, native grass, shrub, and flower species planted to support the biosphere.
At the outdoor event, guests cheered as Fred Falconer, president of Falconer Florist, a 103-year-old business based in Port Washington, cut the ribbon to the iconic garden.
A sensory experience, the garden is designed to welcome guests all year long with such plantings as Pale purple coneflower, Oakleaf hydrangea, October skies aster and much more.
The gala featured organic wine tastings from seven local vineyards and wineries, professional artists painting the garden in real-time, opportunities to learn about the garden’s native plantings, eco-friendly centerpieces, cocktails, festive fare and live music. Guests contributed notes and photos to an exclusive time capsule, honoring this historic moment for future generations at the Preserve.
Redesigned out of necessity after the Preserve’s 1,500 rose bushes were destroyed by Rosette’s Disease in 2021, the new, four-season sustainable garden comprises diverse, native grass, shrub, and flower species planted to support the biosphere.
For this $250,000 installation, the conservancy worked with MNLA, the renowned New York-based landscape architecture firm, to revitalize the garden in keeping with the Preserve’s legacy. Port Washington-based Calabrese & Sons Landscaping Contractors brought MNLA’s vision forward, meticulously planting the garden to be enjoyed spring, summer, fall and winter.
The New York State Senate had awarded the Conservancy a $100,000 grant for the garden’s renovation.
The Conservancy is looking to the Preserve’s supporters as well as garden enthusiasts and conservation advocates to help offset the additional financial obligations.
The gala also marked the beginning of a new campaign in which the community can support the garden through fundraising efforts that include the purchase and engraving of commemorative bricks, planters, benches and fountains.