Inspired by the wildly popular En Blanc dinners in France – as well as the impulse to assist local charities – Brandywine in Black has become a premier springtime event in the Brandywine Valley.
Billed as an exquisite, pop-up gala, it attracts guests who dress in black, pack elaborate picnic hampers and table settings, and head to an exciting mystery indoor location that will be disclosed a few days before the event. This year’s gala features a “pop of yellow” for spring, according to a Brandywine in Black press release.
Last year, Brandywine in Black raised nearly $4,000 for the Brandywine Conservancy’s Young Friends of the Brandywine, and is hoping to do the same or better this year. Funds will benefit the conservancy’s Headwaters Restoration Program for the Brandywine Creek, the release said.
“Clean drinking water is vital for everyone, present residents and future generations,” D. Norman Quynn, chair of the Young Friends of the Brandywine, said in the release. “Clean water starts at the source – the headwaters – so focusing efforts there helps the downstream communities that rely on the Brandywine for their drinking water, the Young Friends are proud to support the Brandywine Conservancy’s work in the headwaters, and deeply grateful to Brandywine in Black for designating this important initiative as the beneficiary of this lovely event.”
The Headwaters Restoration Program depends on raising private funds that in turn stretch limited public funds available for the program. Focusing much of the efforts in the headwaters region in Honey Brook, the program surpassed a huge milestone last year, protecting 4,165 acres – more than 25 percent of Honey Brook Township – under permanent easement, the release said.
“People had a great time last year and are very generous,” Vincent Moro, a resident of Chadds Ford and founder of Brandywine in Black, said in the release. The evening raises money through ticket sales, a limited silent auction, and private donations.
Brandywine in Black and its summertime, sister event Brandywine in White, both raise funds for conservation efforts, preserving open space, maintaining clean water, and feeding the hungry by supporting local shelters and food kitchens, Moro said.
This year’s BIB will take place on Saturday, April 2, from 6 to 11 p.m. Guests, dressed in black, bring gourmet food, beverages, and table settings; tables and chairs await them at the venue, which will feature music, dancing, and a prize for the best decorated table.
Tickets are $30 per person, with discounts for tables of eight. This year’s gala will feature a “Community Table” for singles and/or couples who want to join the event but don’t want to gather a unique table of friends and décor. Tickets for the community table are slightly higher at $35. Community table attendees don’t have to worry about a table setting, but are required to bring their own beverage or one to share along with a favorite dish to be shared as well.
To learn more about the event, visit www.facebook.com/BrandywineinBlack. To purchase tickets, click here.
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