Rachel Louchen reports from Washington Depot. On Saturday, August 12, Tea for 200 reached a huge milestone, commemorating its 20th annual year, which might mean it’s been tea for 4,000 at this point. Held for the last two decades in the gardens of Gary Goodwin and Gael Hammer’s home, the party is a favorite among locals of Litchfield County and sees a huge turnout summer after summer. Tea for 200 has raised nearly a million dollars for local organizations since its inception, with proceeds from this year benefiting the Interfaith AIDS Ministry of Greater Danbury and Gunn Historical Museum. The honored nonprofits may change, but a constant remains the all-white dress code, extravagant hat contest, silent auction, live music by “The Beehive Queen” Christine Ohlman, and the surrounding beauty of Washington Depot. [Above, Gary Goodwin, Evie Hammer, Gael Hammer and Jason Moskowitz].
Andrew Clementi, Lucy Clementi, executive director of Interfaith AIDS Ministry of Greater Danbury, Janet Olsen Ryan, pantry coordinator and board member Dolores Grygog.
Travis Lipinski and Tom Gilbert; Marise Jung, Chad Dutcher and Susan Benedetti from Stickley Audi & Co, one of the event’s sponsors.
Milliner Laura Daly, writer/activist and Connecticut resident Larry Kramer and Tim Daly; part-time Washington residents Pablo Vallecilla and Doug Doucette.
Darcie Congrove and Patti Orzano flank event sponsor Rick Distel and Kevin Comer.
Faithful Tea for 200 attendees Eileen Smyth, Gary Smith and Marilyn Matern-Bratz; Lynne Dedo and realtor Victoria Elliot show off their submissions for the hat contest.
Neighbors Roberta Connolly and Steven Fuchs, a trustee at Gunn Memorial as well as an event sponsor; Cathy Denult and Sandy Brink attend every year.
Niles Bryant, Janet Bryant and Sarah Bryant.