Garden Club, Women’s Club to host hurricane recovery benefit Dec. 18

Posted on November 22, 2024

Taylor County’s own Jacob McCall, who has built a national and international reputation in the floral industry during his 25-plus-year career, will be the guest designer at a special Christmas Luncheon & Floral Design program planned Wednesday, Dec. 18, at the Perry Women’s Club.

The Perry Garden Club (PGC) and Perry Women’s Club (PWC) are joining forces to host the event, with all proceeds benefitting those in the coastal communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.

This will include the PGC’s sister club in Steinhatchee, which lost everything in the storm.

“The Perry Women’s club is thrilled to host the Christmas and floral design luncheon with the Perry Garden Club! This is a luncheon you will not want to miss. The PWC and PGC are committed to supporting our community and giving back to those in need. Your presence will help support local residents. Great food, fellowship, supporting our community in need and beautifully crafted arrangements by Jacob McCall for auction!” PWC President Cindy James said.

Joanna Albritton, co-president of PGC, said it is the club members’ desire to assist those in need, especially the Steinhatchee Garden Club and its members, many of whom also belong to PGC.

“We enjoy having Christmas floral-arranging as an annual event, and this is a way to continue the tradition as well as contribute to the well-being of our members and friends in Taylor County,” Albritton said.

Traditionally every December, the PGC hosted a program featuring local designers Bob Bell and Jaymie “Rain” DeVos, who crafted arrangements that were then auctioned off as a fundraiser for the club.

Last year, PWC opened its doors to the Garden Club to serve as a host site for the luncheon – which boasted one of the largest crowds to attend in recent years.

Bell and DeVos shared then they planned to retire as presenters.

McCall graciously accepted the invitation to take up the duo’s mantle as lead designer, assisted by DeVos.

The theme for the Dec. 18 program will be “Traditions: A Holiday Celebration for the Home,” and will feature 20 designs, some pre-made.

Those planning to attend are asked to make a $10 donation; tickets are available beginning today (Friday), at Taylor County Community Bank.

A covered dish luncheon will be served.