US (CA): American Grown looks back on 'magical' F2V dinner

Over 150,000 people will tour The Flower Fields this year, but only a sold-out crowd of 175 people were the lucky few who enjoyed a wonderful dinner by Chef John Miller of Bistro West while overlooking a sea of ranunculus that seemed to trail off into the Pacific Ocean.

The “Flower Chef,” Carly Cylinder, and her team of designers, had guests in awe with their towering designs of greenery, which also served as an enchanting canopy over the table filled with American Grown Flowers. Carly shared her passion for designing with American Grown Flowers with the crowd and went live on Facebook with American Grown Flowers social media guru Niesha Blancas.

Flower farmer Mike Anthony Mellano of Mellano & Company provided a special group of guests with a bonus farm tour that took people through the 50-acre farm as Mike explained the growing process and his love for flower farming. Mike highlighted the unique and very special relationship the Mellano family has with the Ecke family, and how their partnership has worked to produce such a special farm for the public to experience and enjoy.

Certified American Grown’s Administrator Kasey Cronquist kicked-off the evening’s festivities by welcoming guests to a reception in front of the Paul Ecke Jr. Barn where they were treated to passed appetizers, wine from the Wine Militia and beer from Oceanside’s Legacy Brewery. Guests were also invited to try their hand at the self-serve “boutonniere bar” before heading up to the table in the middle of the beautiful ranunculus.

Source: American Grown Flowers