It was a night of whimsical settings, festive feasts and lively dancing for New York City’s elite social set over the weekend as the New York Botanical Garden hosted its 12th annual Winter Wonderland Ball on Friday.

Over 350 guests — decked in a couture dress code of “Winter White and Black” — began the annual black tie gala in the Palm Court with specialty champagne cocktails provided by Domaine de Canton and an assortment of butlered hors d’oeuvres including our Nuevo Sushi and Catsmo Smoked Salmon Crisp. And in keeping with the holiday spirit, we couldn’t help but add a little holiday flair to the presentation!

One of the most unique aspects of the evening was the Holiday Train Show, which served as a backdrop for the cocktail hour, with more than a dozen toy locomotives zipping around and through 140 miniaturized New-York landmarks that were created from natural elements (think twigs, seeds and every type of vegetation imaginable.)

Following the cocktail reception, guests — including Tinsley Mortimer, Nina Garcia and Charlotte Ronson — moved into a simple but elegant tent with floral event designs from Martin Jobes Designs and ambient up-lighting by Frost Lighting.

And in keeping with the winter wonderland theme, we incorporated seasonal ingredients. Here’s a peek at the gala menu:

Proceeds from the event were put towards the Garden’s Children’s Education programs that serve kids of all ages, particularly under-served children in the Bronx.

(Photo Credit: HeyMrJason Photography)

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