A Writer’s Garden Valentine Tea was presented by the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum on February 10 at the Dallas Arboretum. The ladies know how to enjoy an beautiful afternoon by dressing up and having tea. Many dressed from head to toe in red or pink for the Valentine Tea and sporting hats of all sizes from the wide brim to a tiny pillbox about the size of the box the red velvet Sprinkles cupcakes came in.

The program began with a special tribute to Honorary Chair Marilyn Hailey, a former model at Neiman Marcus. A three minute video showed an array of shots during her modeling career which started in the early 1960s. She became friends with hat designer Frank Olive and her collection of his hats which were on display at the event.  

Stylemaker and author Michael Devine took the stage with a program that his name implied – it was DEVINE. He regaled the audience with tales from his indispensable entertaining guide, An Invitation to the Garden: Seasonal Entertaining Outdoors. Michael presented marvelous ideas for creating festive tablescapes, mouthwatering menus  and décor that befit each occasion. The books sold out quickly and many were disappointed not to be taking one home with them.

Dorothea Meltzer was the event chair. Marena Gault is the Women’s Council President.

Funds raised from the Valentine Tea will benefit the Woman’s Garden at the Dallas Arboretum.

Photos by Deborah Brown