If you are looking for a unique way to spend a perfect spring evening under the stars and the spreading branches of ancient oaks, be sure to join us for cocktails, delectable food, lively music and a very special event with a very special guest at the annual Natchez Garden Club Party for Preservation.

This year the party will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Saturday, May 16, at The Towers where we will celebrate “Spring Time at the Towers.”

The Towers is the magnificent and “must-see” home of Ginger Hyland and James Wesley Forde. For those who have not visited The Towers, it is a jaw-dropping experience in itself. The unique Italian-style architecture along with unique and diverse furnishings and magnificent collections throughout make The Towers a perfect location for the Natchez Garden Club to host its annual Party for Preservation benefit. The proceeds from the party will go toward preservation of the antebellum homes that fall under the non-profit umbrella of the Natchez Garden Club.

This year’s music will be provided by Class Act. Class Act always provides a variety of music for those who want to dance or those who just want to enjoy listening to Sylvia Johns Ritchie and her talented group. Loveta Byrne has selected a variety of deliciously tantalizing food that will have everyone wanting more.

The highlight of the evening will be the very special occasion of Natchez native John Grady Burns’ introduction and premier book signing of his new book “Personally Yours.” This is John’s first book and is a table-top publication of intriguing floral designs. John has created floral designs for The White House, The Blair House, numerous embassies and other assorted foreign and domestic dignitaries. He has worked with cutting-edge designers internationally and is often featured in major floral and design publications. John shares his time between Atlanta where he teaches floral design and Natchez where his family lives and where he also has a cottage bed and breakfast.

John has generously offered to donate a percentage of the sale of “Personally Yours” to the Preservation Society of Ellicott Hill. To reserve your numbered, autographed copy of this book, you can send $50 to John Grady Burns, 1440 Monroe Drive, Atlanta, GA 30324 or you can call the Natchez Garden Club 601-443-9065 or Kitty Bray at 601-442-8282. Books will also be available for purchase at the Party for Preservation and all reserved books must be picked up at the party.

An added special touch is that John Burns and Kitty Bray, well-known for her incredible floral creations, will make table arrangements that will be available for purchase at a silent auction.

Tickets are $45 each and there will be a cash bar. For ticket information, you may call or stop by the Natchez Garden Club during office hours 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at 601-443-9065 or e-mail ntzgardenclub@bellsouth.net, Kimbrell Office Supply at 601-442-1494, or Kitty Bray at 601-442-8282. Sponsorships are requested and are available at three different levels. The platinum level is $1,000. The gold level is $500. The silver level is $250. If you are interested in a sponsorship, please call the Natchez Garden Club office or Janet Sullivan at 601-446-7358.

This year’s Party for Preservation definitely has something for everyone and all of this in exquisite surroundings and all for a good cause.

Janet Sullivan is chairman of the Party for Preservation.