Story and photography by Magan Venable

Attendees to the sold-out 9th Annual Hats in Bloom party arrived in droves to visit with each other and enjoy the lunch by Holly Hambright and entertainment by Beverly Kerr. Those who arrived hat-less had the opportunity to view and purchase chapeaus by Patricia Frankum. Also, up for sale were the unique centerpieces donated by locally owned nurseries, florists and artists with the funds raised going toward the support of the Knoxville Botanical Garden. Those who purchased “Top Hat” tickets arrived early for a mimosa and bloody Mary reception prior to the lunch of Mediterranean style chicken with feta, spinach and artichoke hearts. As per tradition, there was no program, but co-chair Jenny Bushkell welcomed guests and Gay Lyons honored founding chair, Jackie Wilson, with a Patricia Nash handbag and a tot of champagne.