Looking to take in the best view on the Eastern Shore while savoring an unforgettable dining experience? The Oaks Waterfront Hotel’s Oak Room Lounge is here for you. And, we do mean “here” for you. They’ve been a tremendous partner for the Talbot County Garden Club’s Symposium. From creating a warmly sophisticated atmosphere to their indulgent and expertly crafted menu, you simply must come again and again. And enjoy a $150 gift certificate.

Staying in? A basket of savory and sumptuous Italian food from Simpatico will provide the ultimate home menu. A French kitchen towel and a $50 gift certificate from Welcome Home kitchen, table and pantry market will provide the perfect template for your hosting endeavor. That final touch to your table comes from Talbot County Garden Club’s own Pam Keeton, of Maxmore Creek Flowers, with an entire month of weekly floral arrangements.

Now… who to invite?

$400 value

Minimum bid: $200

$250 value

Minimum bid: $125

$650 value

Minimum bid: $300

$500 value

Minimum bid: $125

$350 value

Minimum bid: $175

Tote and Gloat

Now, we know you would never, ever brag about your gardening skills…but with this package, you have our permission! Display those enviable secrets of coaxing more blooms and create that breathtaking design palette. Jump start your planting project with this bundle from TerraTote Soil & Compost and Robin’s Nest! Central Sod Farms’ TerraTote Soil & Compost offers a convenient, mess-free resource for all your garden needs. Each TerraTote is filled with 30 cubic feet of your choice of premium, organic compost, LeafGro, topdressing or garden soil, delivered right to your home. Get busy planting that glorious container garden with a large ceramic planter from our friends at Robin’s Nest Floral & Garden Center.

$275 value

Minimum bid: $125

Meet the Artist En Plein Air

The Plein Air Festival is renowned as the largest and most prestigious juried plein air (“in the open air”) painting competition in the United States. The annual competition is held in Easton, MD each July. Many of the world’s most accomplished artists apply and just fifty-eight applicants will be juried into the competition by a unique juror each year. Once selected, competing artists will travel to Talbot County to produce art from life (as opposed to in the studio).

This package grants invitation for two (2) to stroll the beautiful Chlora’s Point Farm, the private estate of Karyn and Lance Weaver, for the exclusive Plein Air Meet the Artist Party. Watch blank canvases fill with color before your eyes. Enjoy live music floating on the breeze as you sip cocktails and mingle with fellow art enthusiasts. Watch in anticipation as the exhibit comes alive as artists carefully carry their still- wet canvases for display and sale. These works showcase the natural beauty and essence of this incredible landscape. As twilight deepens, indulge in a carefully crafted gourmet dinner by one of Talbot County’s premier caterers.

Chlora’s Point Farm – At the end of Island Neck, where Island and La Trappe Creeks converge, lies the beautiful home of Karyn and Lance Weaver. This historic property, dating back to 1800, has witnessed many additions over the years, as is common in Talbot County. The farm’s most captivating features include its sandy beaches, tidal pools, and sweeping views of the Choptank River and Chesapeake Bay.

$500 value

Minimum bid: $250

Take Refuge and Relax

Discover the magic of Chincoteague Island, Virginia! Get away from it all on Virginia’s Eastern Shore and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. This three-night stay in a wonderfully-appointed cottage will accommodate up to ten guests. From its undisturbed marshlands and its relaxed atmosphere, to its famous Chincoteague Wild Ponies, this destination is transformative. While you are visiting, enjoy a $200 gift certificate for AJ’s On the Creek Restaurant. Feel the fresh, salt-air breezes of the island while dining at a family-owned, upscale-casual establishment. To commemorate your stay, this package includes a copy of the beloved children’s book, “Misty of Chincoteague” by Marguerite Henry.

(Cottage includes: 3 bedrooms and bunk room, full kitchen, screened porch, 3 full baths, outdoor shower, near the historic downtown of Chincoteague. No pets, please.)

$3,250 value

Minimum bid: $1,200