On December 1, a sold-out group of 150 supporters gathered at Casa del Herrero for its jolly Christmas at the Casa celebration. The annual fundraiser helps sustain the operations of this historic Montecito estate.
Beautifully adorned Christmas trees inside and out along with other lovely holiday decorations made the estate especially enchanting. Spirits ran high such that the lack of heat on this chilly evening didn’t dampen the mood at all. Many supporters and volunteers have been a part of the Casa for years and the event felt more like a grand private party for a group of old friends than a fundraiser. Guests mingled throughout the house, loggia, and main alleé while enjoying hearty passed appetizers like succulent leg of lamb by Dining with Di.
During the short program, Executive Director Jessica Tade and Board Chair Meghan Stoll welcomed the guests and paid tribute to Joan Jackson and Susan Jackson for their leadership and thoughtful stewardship of the Casa over the years. Tade thanked Joan for her role in shaping the organization in its infancy and Susan for her mentoring and friendship and for setting in motion the Casa’s strategic plan. Both women have served many years on the board and have served as board president and on various committees. Susan remains on the board.