The Women’s Committee of the Central Park Conservancy raised a record-breaking $490,000 at its annual Fall Luncheon. Held at four iconic locations throughout Central Park, the event raises funds for the preservation and daily maintenance of New York’s beloved 843-acre backyard. The afternoon was generously sponsored by South Flagler House, a waterfront residence in South Florida by Related Ross. 

Event Co-Chairs, Lucinda Bhavsar, Mimi Ritzen Crawford, Brenda Earl, Natalie Cass Stange, and Junior Co-Chair, Mikayla Catoe, joined by Women’s Committee President, Tracey Huff, welcomed supporters of the Conservancy on the pleasant early fall afternoon.

“On days like today—an idyllic, fall afternoon in Central Park—I am reminded of the mission at the core of what brings us together: preserving and upkeeping this gorgeous greenspace so that New Yorkers can continue to enjoy fall afternoons in Central Park for years and generations to come.” said Women’s Committee president, Tracey Huff.

“Raising a record-breaking $490,000 at this year’s Fall Luncheon reflects the extraordinary dedication and commitment of our Women’s Committee,” said Betsy Smith, President & CEO of the Central Park Conservancy. “Their steadfast support ensures the Conservancy can continue to care for Central Park’s landscapes and keep this iconic greenspace vibrant, beautiful, and welcoming for all New Yorkers to enjoy.”

The 450 guests, seated between Bethesda Terrace, Conservatory Water, Glade Arch, and King Jagiello Plaza, included Gillian Hearst, Coco Kopelman, Angie Mar, Gillian Miniter, Margo M. Nederlander, Elyse Newhouse, Jenna Segal, and Sarah Wetenhall.

The star of the autumnal-themed decor was the tablecloths donated by Scalamandré, featuring their “Central Park” fabric, a nod to the Park’s beauty that the Central Park Conservancy raises funds to uphold. Seasonal florals by Flowers by Philip and a picnic lunch from Canard Inc completed the tablescapes.

Celebrations continued with a reception at Bethesda Terrace, overlooking the southern point of The Lake. All in all, it was a beautiful and successful afternoon in honor of Central Park.

Image credit: Yvonne Tnt/Matt Borkowski/BFA