For Canada’s Sofia Popescu Being In Wellington Is Key To Her Equestrian Future

Story By Siena Rosato/Cavaletti Consulting  |  Photos By Mia Baker

For young riders chasing international dreams, there are certain places that feel legendary — venues that represent not only top of the sport, but opportunity, growth and belonging. That is certainly the case for Canada’s Sofia Popescu, whose dreams of international success and Olympic medals have led her to Wellington, home of the renowned Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF).

After only a short taste of the circuit in 2024, Popescu made the decision to return last season, an intentional shift in her program that reflects both her long-term ambitions and the undeniable draw of Wellington as a global hub for equestrian sport.

Popescu began her junior career in Langley, British Columbia, where the realities of Canadian winters limited her competition schedule. “I was only able to show in the summers because of weather,” she explained, noting that winter competition initially meant just a couple of weeks at the Desert International Horse Park in California.

As her ambitions grew, so did her willingness to travel. In pursuit of goals like qualifying for the Pony Finals, Popescu began spending entire winters on the west coast, balancing time between California circuits and summer competition, eventually committing to a full-time move west, which was the first pivotal step in her development as a rider.

Still, Wellington remained on her radar. “I have dreamed about showing at WEF ever since I started trying horses there many years ago,” she said.

That dream became reality at the end of the 2024 winter season, when she spent several weeks competing on the east coast. It didn’t take long for her to recognize the difference.

Following that initial experience, Popescu made another major decision: to base herself out east with trainer Ilan Ferder and his team. What began as a temporary stay quickly became something more permanent. “After that, I realized I was right where I wanted to be and never wanted to leave,” she explained.

Part of Wellington’s appeal lies beyond the showgrounds. The community itself offers a unique blend of small-town charm and world-class infrastructure. For riders, it’s a lifestyle built around proximity to horses, to trainers and to peers who share the same level of dedication.

“Being a golf cart away from my horses is so important to me,” Popescu said, emphasizing the convenience and connection that define daily life during the circuit.

But it is the sport itself that truly sets WEF apart. Each week, riders face technical tracks, international-caliber competition and an atmosphere that mirrors championship conditions. For a developing rider, that consistency is invaluable.

“I think WEF does a fantastic job with courses and classes,” Popescu said. “Getting to ride against and watch some of the best of the best is so special.”

One moment in particular stands out from her first winter: watching top international competitors deliver a standout Nations Cup performance under the lights on a Saturday night. “It was one of the most impressive performances I’ve ever seen,” Popescu recalled.

Experiences like that, she said, are both inspiring and motivating reminders of the level she hopes to reach.

From a competitive standpoint, Wellington has also proven instrumental in helping Popescu work toward one of her key goals: representing Canada at the North American Youth Championships (NAYC). The depth and difficulty of WEF competition provide ideal preparation for the pressures of championship riding. “I always feel so prepared for it every year after jumping my whole winter here,” she said.

Popescu has competed at the NAYC three times and has even bigger goals of representing Canada on Nations Cup teams — and one day, potentially, at the Olympic Games.

Wellington has become a hub for a strong Canadian contingent each season, with top professionals, fellow juniors and national team figures all based in the area. Popescu finds herself immersed in the very environment she hopes to be part of long-term. “It’s really a great experience to ride amongst the people I will hopefully jump on international teams with someday,” she said.

Central to her progress has been her partnership with Ferder, whose guidance has shaped both her riding and mindset. “One thing he reminded me my first winter here was that this sport is a marathon, not a sprint,” Popescu explained.

In a setting where comparisons can be inevitable, that perspective has helped her stay grounded and focused on her own development. “Mostly, you are in competition with yourself,” she added, a philosophy that has allowed Popescu to measure success in terms of growth rather than results alone.

That growth has been evident. This winter marked Popescu’s introduction to the CSI2* level, where she has found increasing consistency against deeper fields. “Starting to jump these bigger classes amongst so many professionals I look up to has been really incredible,” she said.

With a talented string of horses, her focus remains on building confidence and consistency across the board. At the top of her string is Sade De Rialfo Z, a 10-year-old warmblood mare that Popescu began riding a year ago. Each round is an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and refine her approach, an effort that paid off in a standout performance during WEF Week 9. “My favorite accomplishment this winter was the 2* that I jumped with Sade,” she said. “She gave me such great effort and really showed me how much we have both grown together.”

Outside the ring, Popescu has embraced the rhythm of Wellington life. From discovering local coffee shops with friends to enjoying slower Mondays at the barn, she values the balance that the circuit provides. “Wellington has so many hidden gems,” she said. “I really love and appreciate the feel of a small community.”

Looking ahead, Popescu plans to continue building on this momentum. A summer in Traverse City awaits before she returns to Wellington with even bigger goals. Chief among them is stepping into the U25 division in 2027, alongside continued progress with her horses.

For Popescu, the decision to base herself in Wellington full-time has already proven transformative. In a sport where progress is measured over years, not weeks, she has found a place that supports both her ambitions and her day-to-day growth. And as she continues to climb the ranks, Wellington remains not just a winter destination, but a cornerstone of her journey toward the top of the sport.

To follow Sofia Popescu, find her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/sof_eq.

A Perfect Fit: Technology & Tradition Meet At LM Boots

Story By Carrie Wirth |  Photos Courtesy LM Boots

The master bootmakers at La Mundial Custom Boots (LM Boots) have measured for fit by eye and hand for 120 years. Now, this preeminent boot maker is enhancing that accumulated knowledge and craftsmanship with the world’s first digital laser scanner of the foot and leg.

The LM Master Fit Scan captures precise, three-dimensional measurements of the leg and foot with unprecedented accuracy to create perfectly fitted tall and short boots. LM Boots, known for comfort, performance, style and longevity, just singularly surpassed itself.

The pursuit of the perfect-fitting custom boot began as a family affair in 1906. Don Francisco Rivas Figueroa was not a romantic. He was a craftsman with a workshop in the old center of Quito, Ecuador, and had a clear-eyed view of what the market was about to do.

In 1906, the mass production of footwear was on the horizon. He knew it. He chose handmade anyway — not as a statement, but because he believed a custom boot was simply a better boot. Now, 120 years later, the company he founded, La Mundial or LM Boots, is still making them one pair at a time — and has just become the first equestrian bootmaker in the world to integrate 3D scanning fit technology.

The Rivas family story runs five generations deep. Today, sisters Alejandra and Isabel Rivas are taking over the management of the business, which includes two Florida locations — one here in Wellington and one at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala — while production remains rooted in Quito, where 20 employees work in manufacturing, administration and client services.

The company also has 30 U.S. sales representatives trained specifically in fit, style and measurement.

A Name with a Plan — On Aug. 10, 1919, Don Francisco received a gold medal from Ecuador’s Society of Shoemakers as the country’s finest bootmaker. The recognition crystallized something he had already decided. He named the company La Mundial. In Spanish: the world. It was not a boast. It was a target.

He wanted his boots to cross borders, and eventually, they did. The country has produced leather goods of exceptional quality for generations. Ecuador’s leatherworking tradition gave LM Boots the raw material and craft advantage that endures today.

Fixated on Perfect Fit — Getting a riding boot right is harder than most people appreciate. Calves, arches and toes vary infinitely in shape, width, height and length. Riders who spend years in the saddle develop specific fit preferences.

The industry’s standard solution has always been a tape measure, a paper form and a fitter who has seen enough legs to make reasonable guesses about what the numbers mean. It works, mostly.

However, LM Boots improved on the fit process. They developed a Velcro strap tape measurement system. It was a practical fix for a persistent problem, holding the tape in place, and the measurements got more consistent. Clients noticed, and business grew.

Combining Craftsmanship with Technology — In the 2000s, LM Boots built something no competitor had: a custom client digital customization program tailored to client preferences. Clients could design their boots on screen, choosing color, type of leather, piping, finish and other details. The order is fed directly into the manufacturing software, reducing margin for error. The system did two things simultaneously: It gave clients more control over what they were buying, and it gave the artisans more precise instructions to work from.

It was, in hindsight, the foundation for everything the LM Master Fit Scan would later build on — proof that the company was willing to rewire its own process if the result was a better boot and a happier client.

LM Boots launched its LM Master Fit Scan at the 2026 FEI World Cup Finals in Fort Worth and became the world’s first equestrian bootmaker to integrate 3D scanning into its standard measurement process. The device digitally captures the precise geometry of each client’s feet and legs and sends that data directly to the production software.

“The scan talks to the factory,” Isabel Rivas explained. “And it gives our artisans superpowers.”

For boot lovers, the difference is real.

LM Boots has never tried to scale into a volume business, and 120 years in, that position looks less like a constraint and more like a strategy. In Ecuador, the Rivas family is working toward a shared-ownership model for employees, giving them a direct stake in the company’s future. For those living in Ecuador, this could be life changing. It says something about how this particular business has survived five generations: by caring about the people who do the work.

Don Francisco Rivas named his company after the world and then spent his life perfecting a single product. The fifth generation has the world now, in Wellington and across North America — and they are still making the same bet he made in 1906: That a boot made for one specific person, measured precisely and built by hand, is worth more than anything a factory line can produce. So far, 120 years of clients have agreed.

LM Boots is located in the original Wellington Mall at 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd. To learn more, call (561) 331-4000 or visit www.lmboots.com.

At 85, Norton Museum Looks Ahead To Showing New Art

By Scott Simmons

This year, the Norton Museum of Art celebrated its 85th anniversary, and it recently hosted “Art and Life in Rembrandt’s Time: Masterpieces from The Leiden Collection,” a critically acclaimed exhibition that drew more than 100,000 visitors and received international news coverage.

But rather than looking back, the Norton is looking ahead to creating new ways to educate and inspire the community with exhibitions, lectures, films, performances and community days.

As always, art comes first.

Fifteen years ago, the Norton made a commitment to showcase art by women, offering its Recognition of Art by Women (RAW) series. Two shows in that series are now on view, “Danielle Mckinney: Shelter” and “Recognition of Art by Women: In Retrospect.”

“The Recognition of Art by Women series is central to the Norton’s mission,” said Ghislain d’Humières, the museum’s Kenneth C. Griffin Director and CEO. “Each exhibition offers an opportunity to showcase the work of exceptional women artists and to highlight their lasting impact on the field. Danielle Mckinney’s exhibition continues this legacy, reflecting the power and diversity of artistic voices that define the RAW program.”

In a world in which works by women artists figured in only 14.9 percent of exhibitions at 31 prominent U.S. museums between 2008 and 2020, the Norton included works by women in 44 percent of its shows. Over the last five years, that trajectory has accelerated, with women artists featured in 57 percent of all Norton exhibitions.

Curated by J. Rachel Gustafson, chief curatorial officer at the Norton, “Danielle Mckinney: Shelter” showcases works that center on solitary female figures within interior settings, offering glimpses into moments of private contemplation, respite or ease.

“Mckinney’s paintings unfold like moments suspended in time,” Gustafson said. “They invite viewers to consider the emotional and spiritual dimensions of solitude, and how stillness itself can become a site of imagination and strength. Her work captures an interior world that feels both deeply personal and profoundly human.”

The exhibition continues through Oct. 4.

The companion exhibition, “In Retrospect,” curated by Arden Sherman, the Norton’s Glenn W. and Cornelia T. Bailey Senior Curator of Contemporary Art, traces the breadth of practices that the RAW series has championed over the past iterations.

The nine featured artists are British painter Jenny Saville (2011), American painter Sylvia Plimack Mangold (2012), British sculptor Phyllida Barlow (2013), Swedish sculptor Krista Kristalova (2014), Nigerian painter Njideka Akunyili Crosby (2016), Austrian painter Svenja Deininger (2017), American artist Nina Chanel Abney (2019), Colombian visual artist María Berrío (2021) and Santa Clara Pueblo artist Rose B. Simpson (2024).

The exhibition continues through Sept. 27.

These shows are joined by an array of other exhibitions on display this summer at the Norton, including:

• Artists at Work — Through June 21. Through paintings, sculptures, photographs and more, this installation reveals a sliver of the who, where and how behind the art. Artists’ portrayals of themselves and others in the act of artmaking accompany depictions of dynamic studios, while examples of artists’ preparatory works illustrate their creative processes.
• That’s Entertainment: Japanese Prints and the Art of Leisure — Through July 5. This exhibition presents 31 Japanese woodblock prints by Utagawa Kunisada (1786-1864) and other leading artists of the Edo period (1615-1868) and focuses on portraits of celebrated Kabuki actors from major productions staged in Edo (present-day Tokyo) theaters during the 19th century.
• 60 Seconds: Polaroids from the Collection — Through Aug. 16. This exhibit celebrates the photography’s signature immediacy, tracing how artists have embraced Polaroids, or instant film, for their ability to produce a unique image in mere moments.
• Galloping Steed: Celebrating the Year of the Horse in Chinese Paintings — Through Aug. 23. This exhibition brings together works by Xu Beihong (1895-1953), one of the most celebrated artists of early 20th-century China, alongside rare paintings by Louis Antoine de Poirot (1735-1813), a French Jesuit artist who served at the court of the Qianlong Emperor (reigned 1735-1796). “Galloping Steed” is part of a multiyear exhibition series developed by the Norton Museum of Art in partnership with the Dongguan Lou Collection.
• Portrait Mode: Self-reflections from Past, Present and Future — Art by students on display through Aug. 16.
• Cursed Images: Pictures Out of Context — May 9 through Nov. 1. This exhibition features 20th-century everyday, amateur snapshots from the Peter J. Cohen Collection, one of the largest privately held archives of anonymous photographs in the United States. It highlights photographs whose subjects or object relationships evoke a subtle, inexplicable unease.
• Art & Independence: America at 250 — July 4 through Dec. 6. Works from the collection that celebrate the U.S. semiquincentennial.
• Florida Roots: Ralph Coburn — July 25 through Jan. 3. This exploration explores the work of Ralph Coburn (1923-2018), who spent most of his winters in Miami Beach and was influenced by its Art Deco architecture.
• Visible Fiction: Photography and Artifice — Sept. 19 through Feb. 21. An exhibition that explores the theatricality of photography.

The Norton also hosts Art After Dark from 5 to 10 p.m. on Fridays, with admission that’s free for members; $10 for adults and seniors; and $5 for students. First Friday of the month is Jazz Friday. Tours are 5 and 7 p.m. Open Studio art workshops are 6 to 9 p.m. Artist tours are at 8 p.m. the third Friday of the month. Meanwhile, check the calendars each month for the Jazz Brunch hosted in the restaurant.

The Norton Museum of Art is located at 1450 S. Dixie Highway in West Palm Beach. Tickets are $18 for adults; $15 for seniors; $5 for students; and free for active military and veterans with ID, Florida educators with ID, and free Saturday admission for Palm Beach County residents from Memorial Day to Labor Day. To learn more, call (561) 832-5196 or visit www.norton.org.

Norton By The Numbers
2024-25 Season

121,000+ total museum visitors
1,300+ docent and curator-led public tours
470+ diverse public programs and events
29,000+ free admissions
17 original and traveling special exhibitions
100+ corporate, community and civic partners
118,500+ visitors to headlining special exhibitions
160+ new artworks added to the collection
3 artists-in-residence
8,750+ artworks in the museum collection
567 artworks on loan from other museums and collections

Wellington Rotary Has Been Putting ‘Service Above Self’ For More Than 45 Years

By Patrick Sherry

“Service above self” is the motto that members of Rotary clubs around the world diligently follow. The Rotary Club of Wellington is no different. With its community-driven efforts to respond to the needs of the public, its members serve people with compassion and open arms.

The local club was founded in 1980 through sponsorship by the Rotary Club of Belle Glade. For more than four decades, Wellington Rotarians have been creating impactful change through a variety of initiatives. Club members also work closely with the Village of Wellington to support grassroots projects that serve the community.

Current President Maria Fernanda Cruz explained that the Rotary “turns compassion into action.”

“It supports students, helps seniors… and assists families during times that they need it the most. It also matters because we work through strong partnerships,” Cruz added. “That gives us the means to do so.”

The club’s work is extensive, with multiple projects throughout the year that focus on a variety of needs. The club does not center its identity around one major initiative. Instead, club members contribute to multiple projects that align with the shifting needs of the community at any given time.

Cruz said that some of her favorite projects are during the holiday season. Every year, club members prepare Thanksgiving meals for people in need. Each December, the club hosts distribution events for local students through the Back to Basics Angel Program, which gifts children with new sneakers, socks, underwear and a toy.

“The most memorable moments I’ve seen are the immediate impact when we deliver holiday meals and seeing these people being thankful not just for the meal, but for the time that we give them,” she said.

One of the most notable areas that the organization focuses on is education. The Wellington Rotary supports scholarships for high school students. It also sponsors an Interact Club at Wellington High School, which introduces students to Rotary’s community efforts while helping them learn how to serve others.

One of the club’s largest educational initiatives is its Dictionary Project. Since 2005, the Wellington Rotary has been distributing dictionaries to third-grade students across Wellington elementary schools. The project is intended to promote literacy and education by providing students with a valuable reference tool for their studies. Last year, Rotarians reached the milestone of more than 24,000 dictionary donations to students in the village.

Club members are determined to meet any needs and regularly pursue new projects if it means helping the community. For example, during the pandemic, Rotarians volunteered weekly at food distribution sites in Wellington for more than a year. More recently, the organization assisted in clean-up efforts when a large tornado damaged a wide swath of western Wellington.

Nikki Stinson, who will be installed next month as club president for the upcoming year, said that the Rotary’s work is important because there are constant needs in the local area, and the club is here to fill those gaps.

“I’m just very proud that we can be relied upon to meet immediate needs within the community,” Stinson said.

The Rotary Club of Wellington is one of thousands of local Rotary clubs around the world. In 1905, Chicago attorney Paul Harris founded the first Rotary group in Chicago for local community members to form meaningful, lifelong friendships. The group named their club “Rotary” because of the rotational meeting spots where members would gather. Through the years, the club expanded to having clubs across the world, with the collective organization changing its name to Rotary International in 1922.

The organization’s mission was originally based on building local camaraderie among business leaders, but it soon evolved to focus heavily on humanitarian efforts to promote peace and community-focused assistance. Now, Rotary International consists of more than 45,000 clubs and more than 1.2 million members working to create impact locally and internationally.

“Many people don’t realize what Rotary is or what type of organization we are,” said Donald Gross, vice president of the local club. “But then when they see Rotarians at work, they realize that we’re out there in the community, and we’re there as a way to help our neighbors.”

With such a large network, the Wellington club is able to contribute to projects that assist communities abroad. Members have participated in projects in places like Colombia and Kenya to provide assistance to nursing homes, farms for individuals with special needs, orphanages and more. The Wellington club collaborates with other Rotary clubs to match funds that are used to support these initiatives.

All of these efforts are driven by its members, who fully commit themselves to following the organization’s motto of “service above self.” Club members praise the organization for their openness and positive energy that they apply to every project they do.

“It’s the best thing I’ve done,” Gross said. “My wife and I moved to Wellington in 1992, and when you think of what we’ve accomplished since then, so much of it for me has started through joining the Wellington Rotary Club.”

The Rotary Club of Wellington is always happy to welcome new members. Stinson stressed that they are working to change people’s perception of who can join, and is focused on showing that the club is open to anyone who is interested in service and community involvement.

“Giving back can be done now — whatever age you are — not just when you’re retired,” Stinson said. “We just have this infectious energy within our club for giving and for fellowship, and it’s really a fantastic group for all ages.”

Looking ahead, the club will close out its year of activities at its annual installation dinner on June 27. There, they will salute Cruz for her accomplishments and install Stinson as the new president, who will begin the role on July 1, which marks the new fiscal year for Rotary clubs around the world.

As Stinson steps into the role of president, she is looking forward to continuing the club’s dedicated service to the community. “Stepping into the role of president of this esteemed club is an absolute dream,” Stinson said. “I get the honor of leading some of the best and brightest, most dedicated, and selfless individuals within our community. I hope my presidency is inspirational and inviting to those interested in community service and leadership.”

To learn more about the Rotary Club of Wellington, and to find out about upcoming activities, visit www.wellingtonrotary.org. To learn more about membership opportunities, call Don Gross at (561) 723-8461.

The Rhythm Of Community In Wellington

Here in Wellington, spring represents progress — projects moving forward, plans taking shape and priorities becoming clearer.

There’s something about May in Wellington that feels like a quiet exhale. The energy of the season has softened. As equestrian events wind down, seasonal visitors begin their journey north, the end of the school year is in sight, and our community settles into a different rhythm — one that’s a little slower, a little warmer (OK, maybe hotter), and a little more reflective.

But if you look closely, May is not a pause. It’s a pivot. It’s the time of year when Wellington shifts from hosting the world to focusing even more intentionally on the people who call this place home year-round. In local government, we often talk about seasons not just in terms of weather, but in terms of momentum. Spring represents progress — projects moving forward, plans taking shape and priorities becoming clearer.

Across the village, that momentum is visible in both big and small ways. It’s in the continued evolution of our Town Center, where thoughtful investments are creating spaces for connection, events and shared experiences. Elsewhere in Wellington, it’s in the steady, behind-the-scenes work on our multi-year stormwater pump station program. This is an effort that may not always make headlines but is essential to protecting our community and enhancing long-term resilience.

And it’s in places like the Wellington Environmental Preserve, where the balance between conservation and community access reflects something deeper about who we are: a village that values both growth and stewardship. These aren’t just projects. They are commitments to quality of life, to sustainability and to the idea that local government works best when it is both forward-thinking and grounded in community values.

While capital projects and infrastructure matter, what truly defines Wellington is the everyday moments. It’s families gathering at neighborhood parks and playgrounds as the days grow longer. It’s residents connecting at community events, even as the seasonal crowds begin to thin. It’s the familiar faces you see at local businesses, schools and volunteer activities. It’s the people who are here not just for a season, but for the long haul. These are the moments that don’t always make it into reports or presentations, but they are the foundation of a strong community. And they serve as a reminder that local government, at its core, is about people. It’s about creating an environment where those moments can happen — safely, consistently and meaningfully.

May is also when we begin looking ahead. Budget planning is underway. Strategic priorities are being refined. Conversations about the future are taking shape to determine what Wellington will look like not just next year, but in the years to come. This is where community voice becomes especially important.

Whether it’s participating in public meetings, sharing feedback or simply staying informed, civic engagement plays a critical role in shaping the direction of our village. The decisions we make today are strongest when they are informed by the perspectives of those we serve. Local government works best when it is a partnership.

As we move into the summer months, it’s also worth reflecting on what makes Wellington unique. Our equestrian identity continues to set us apart on a global stage, but it’s the way that identity integrates with everyday community life that truly defines us. It’s not just about world-class venues or international events; it’s about how that heritage shapes our sense of place, our open spaces and our shared pride. It’s about being a community that is both distinctive and welcoming. A place where tradition and innovation coexist.

If April is about energy and activity, May is about appreciation. It’s a chance to take stock of where we are, recognize the progress we’ve made and recommit to the work ahead. In our “Great Hometown,” that work is ongoing, as well as deeply rewarding. Because at the end of the day, success isn’t measured solely in projects completed or milestones achieved. It’s measured in the strength of the community we continue to build together.

As we head into the summer season, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve this community, and for the residents, businesses and community partners who make Wellington such a special place to call home. This month may feel like a transition, but it’s also a reminder: the best parts of our community are not seasonal. They’re enduring. And they’re built, day by day, by all of us.

A Day Wandering Through Wellington’s Hidden Garden Gems

Story and Photos by Shannon Anastasio

There is something quietly magical about being invited into spaces that are typically tucked behind gates, hedges and winding driveways. As I stepped into the Wellington Garden Club’s “Garden Inspirations” tour on Saturday, March 21, I felt that sense of anticipation building with each step that beckoned me forward.

This exclusive, self-guided tour unfolded like a living storybook — one written in petals, textures, fragrances and the unmistakable spirit of the homeowners who so graciously opened their private sanctuaries for just one special day.

“The Wellington Garden Club has proudly hosted a biennial garden tour for more than 20 years,” tour co-chair Carol Coleman said. “It has become our signature fundraiser, supporting meaningful community outreach and educational initiatives throughout the village.”

The club’s Twig Morris explained how the gardens are chosen.

“Gardens are chosen for their curb appeal, diversity of plant material and creative use of hardscape elements, such as garden structures and art, all while reflecting strong landscape design principles,” she said. “We also strive to showcase a variety of styles, from structured and formal to natural, pollinator-friendly environments.”

The first garden I explored, nestled along Westbury Close in Paddock Park, set the tone for the day. At the home of Lisa Ferrano, the landscape revealed itself through softly winding paths bordered by lush greenery and thoughtfully layered plantings. Here, Florida’s natural beauty took center stage. Native plant varieties blended seamlessly with gentle pops of tropical color, creating a serene setting that felt both curated and completely natural. Birds flitted from branch to branch, while butterflies drifted effortlessly across the sunlight — reminders that these gardens are not only designed for human admiration but also for the thriving ecosystems they nurture. This garden emphasized sustainability and resilience, and stood as a living tribute to the Sunshine State.

Just a few doors away, Nina Williams’ beautifully sculpted property is an English garden with a harmonious blend of natural charm and cultivated beauty. Here, elegance and structure define the landscape. Formal design elements guided visitors through carefully arranged beds that highlight symmetry, balance, and the timeless beauty of roses and flowering ornamentals. The atmosphere felt refined but welcoming — a testament to the idea that sophistication in garden design can co-exist with warmth and accessibility. As I walked the gently curving pathways, I could not help but imagine how many quiet morning coffees and twilight conversations this enchanting space had already witnessed.

Throughout the tour, a lively cul-de-sac marketplace near two of the featured gardens added an extra layer of inspiration. Vendors displayed an array of plants and garden-themed merchandise, allowing visitors to take a piece of the day’s beauty home with them. Conversations flowed easily among neighbors and new friends alike, united by a shared appreciation for the artistry and tranquility found in these cultivated outdoor spaces.

The cheerful buzz around the 50-50 raffle and other prize opportunities added a festive energy that complemented the peaceful rhythm of the gardens themselves. I chatted with vendors like Mike Sands of Tangled Roots Orchid Nursery about the amazing array of plantings he had for sale, as well as Denise Abruzzese of Foxview Roses, who shared the many varieties available for purchase. Of course, I could not resist and took home something special.

The journey continued at Denise Bassaline’s home on Jonquil Place in Sugar Pond Manor. Tropical varieties mingled with native species, creating layered visuals at every turn. Winding pathways led through shaded enclaves and sunlit clearings, each revealing its own distinct vignette. It was here that the essence of the tour seemed to come together. The exquisite craftsmanship of landscape design, the earthy touches of personal creativity, the mindful use of native plants, and above all, the generous spirit shared by every participating homeowner.

Roxanne Henry’s home on DeHavilland Court in the Aero Club felt like a celebration of abundance. This garden was alive with color, texture and movement — adoringly whimsical in its personality. Walking along the meandering garden paths, I found delightful surprises tucked into every corner: unexpected sculptures, playful arrangements of flowering shrubs, and charming seating areas that invited visitors to pause and breathe it all in. It was a garden that celebrated imagination as much as horticulture, demonstrating how personal expression can transform an outdoor space into a story uniquely its own. Henry got the inspiration to create her garden when she took the tour herself more than two decades ago. Now on her third time being selected as one of the tour destinations, she beamed with pride welcoming visitors.

My final stop was at Mida Farms, the equestrian property of Victoria McCullough. The sweeping grounds and expansive views offered a striking contrast to the more intimate residential gardens earlier in the day. Here, lush landscaping framed open green spaces, while the presence of champion Clydesdale horses added an almost storybook quality to the experience. The garden design embraced both natural beauty and the rhythms of equestrian life, blending ornamental plantings with practical spaces that support the property’s daily activities. Visitors gathered with excitement near the raffle display, dreaming of the chance to win a private carriage ride through the picturesque surroundings, an experience that perfectly captured the romance of the setting.

What struck me most as the day drew to a close was how each garden, though entirely distinct in style and scale, reflected a common thread of passion and purpose. Some landscapes felt exquisitely polished, others delightfully whimsical, and many celebrated the resilience and charm of Florida’s native flora. Yet all were infused with genuine pride and hospitality. The Wellington Garden Club’s mission to educate, beautify and inspire was evident in every thoughtfully placed bloom and smiling volunteer greeting visitors along the way.

Founded in 1981, the Wellington Garden Club continues to cultivate more than just beautiful landscapes. Events like the garden tour directly support youth gardening initiatives, summer camp experiences, scholarships and civic beautification projects that enrich the Welington community. As I finished the tour, I carried with me not only fresh ideas for my own outdoor spaces but also a renewed appreciation for the role gardens play in connecting us to nature, to creativity and to one another.

“Our mission is rooted in education, sharing knowledge of gardening, horticulture, floral and landscape design, botany, and environmental stewardship with both our members and the public, including youth,” tour co-chair Carol Ralph said. “Proceeds from the tour help fund summer camp experiences, student scholarships in environmental and conservation studies, Habitat for Humanity support, and the National Garden Clubs’ Plant-A-Tree program.”

In a community known for its elegance and equestrian heritage, the garden tour offered a softer, equally captivating glimpse into Wellington’s heart. It was a reminder that behind many gates and garden walls lie worlds of inspiration waiting to be discovered.

Visit www.wellingtongardenclub.org to learn more about the Wellington Garden Club.

In The Year Of The Horse, GPL Celebrates Equine Athletes At The Patagones Polo Club

By Sharon Kersten

As the lunar calendar marks the Year of the Horse — a symbol of strength, elegance and boundless energy — the Gay Polo League (GPL) returns to Wellington for its 16th annual International Gay Polo Tournament, taking place April 23-25.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Patagones Polo Club, this signature event has become a highlight of the season, drawing more than 1,000 guests and top-tier players from around the world for a weekend that is socially vibrant and fiercely competitive.

The connection between the Year of the Horse and the sport of polo feels particularly fitting. Both are rooted in centuries-old traditions that originated in East Asia, where horsemanship was revered as both art and discipline. In polo, that reverence is on full display — each match is a carefully choreographed interplay between rider and horse, where speed, agility and intuition must align seamlessly. Much like the horse in the lunar zodiac, polo ponies embody endurance, grace and a fiercely competitive spirit. The GPL tournament channels that same dynamic energy, offering a modern celebration of authenticity, freedom and global camaraderie.

Since its founding in 2006 by Chip McKenney, the Gay Polo League has evolved from a small group of enthusiasts in Los Angeles into an international community spanning 15 countries. What began as a shared passion for polo has grown into a movement — one that champions inclusion while maintaining a deep respect for the sport’s traditions. Along the way, the league has raised more than $400,000 for charitable causes, reinforcing its commitment to giving back as much as it celebrates.

This year, GPL has named Equality Florida as its beneficiary, with proceeds supporting the organization’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project. The initiative focuses on creating more inclusive and supportive learning environments for LGBTQ students across Florida, addressing issues such as bullying, social isolation and mental health challenges.

The festivities begin Thursday, April 23 with one of the weekend’s most anticipated traditions: GPL Polotini presents Wigstock! at Mary Lou’s. Equal parts playful and glamorous, this high-energy “FUNraiser” invites guests to lean all the way into fantasy, by arriving in bold ensembles and sky-high wigs that defy gravity and convention alike. With internationally acclaimed DJ Citizen Jane setting the tone, the dance floor quickly transforms into a kaleidoscope of color, creativity and unapologetic self-expression. The evening’s signature Wig Contest adds an extra layer of excitement, with the winner taking home two round-trip tickets to anywhere in the United States — courtesy of Delta Air Lines. Beyond the spectacle, the event carries a meaningful purpose, with proceeds directly benefiting Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project.

On Friday, April 24, the focus shifts to the field as preliminary matches commence at the Patagones Polo Club. Beginning at 10:30 a.m., these early games offer a glimpse of the skill and strategy that define the tournament, as teams from across the globe compete for a coveted place in Saturday’s finals. Later that evening, the atmosphere turns decidedly elegant with the invitation-only VIP Black Tie Dinner Reception, where sponsors, players and league members gather under the stars for an evening of refined dining and celebration.

Saturday, April 25 marks the main event — a day where sport, style and spectacle converge. Four teams, composed of 16 international players, will take to the field at Patagones for the tournament finals.

“We have a joie de vivre, a lighthearted enjoyment of our sport and community, yet we’re dead serious when it comes to fierce competition,” said McKenney, capturing the spirit that defines GPL so distinctly.

Gates open at noon, welcoming guests to an afternoon filled with excitement and tradition. The Founders Cup Polo Finals begin at 1 p.m., followed by the beloved divot stomp at 2:15 p.m., a time-honored polo ritual where spectators take to the field to help repair the turf while mingling and enjoying the social atmosphere. At 3 p.m., the Senator Cup Polo Finals bring the competition to its thrilling conclusion.

Award presentations will follow the end of each match, recognizing standout moments and participants including: Most Valuable Player, sponsored by Lauracea & McCourt Partners; Best Goal, sponsored by Lauracea; Best Dressed, sponsored by RBC Wealth Management; Best Playing Pony, sponsored by Tackeria; and Best Tailgate, sponsored by USTA.

Indeed, while the polo itself is world class, the surrounding pageantry is equally captivating. Spectators can enjoy the colorful Flags of Nations procession, the Parade of Teams, and spirited performances by the Miami Cheer and Fort Lauderdale Cheer squads. The energy is both sophisticated and welcoming, creating an environment where seasoned polo enthusiasts and first-time attendees alike feel at home.

For those seeking a more elevated experience, the Cherry Knoll Farm VIP Tent offers an exclusive vantage point along the field. Here, guests can enjoy reserved seating, an open bar and an array of curated culinary offerings, all while taking in the excitement of the final matches. It’s an up close and personal way to experience the tournament — where luxury and sport meet just steps from the action.

Visitors traveling from afar, as well as locals looking to indulge in a weekend escape, can take advantage of special accommodations at the Hampton Inn & Suites Wellington, offering a preferred rate for tournament guests. It’s yet another way the GPL experience extends beyond the field, inviting attendees to fully immerse themselves in the weekend’s festivities.

While Wellington serves as the league’s flagship destination, GPL’s reach is global. The organization has hosted events in destinations such as the United Kingdom, St. Tropez and Chantilly in France, Menlo Park, Lexington and Palm Beach, while also making an annual pilgrimage to Argentina each December for the Argentine Open and a week of polo in Lobos. This international presence reflects not only the sport’s worldwide appeal but also GPL’s role as a unifying force within it.

None of this would be possible without the support of an extensive network of sponsors and community partners, whose contributions help bring the event to life year after year, including Cherry Knoll Farm, the Debbie and James Burrows Foundation, Delta Air Lines, Equity Performance Equine, Ethel M. Chocolates, Goshen Hill, Greenberg Traurig, JP Morgan Chase, Lauracea, McKenney Media, McCourt Partners, Melzer/Lorenzo Compass, MEP Juice, the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, the Palm Beaches, PBSC, Provident Jewelers, RBC Wealth Management, USTA and the Village of Wellington. Media sponsors include Equestrian Living, HotSpots, HappeningOUT Television, Lux Wellington Magazine, Passport Magazine, OutClique, OutSFL and Wellington The Magazine.

As the Gay Polo League celebrates 16 years of its signature Wellington event, its mission remains as clear as ever. “My initial goal was to encourage greater diversity and inclusion in the sport of polo,” McKenney said. “Now we have players, fans and allies coming from all over the world to participate. GPL is changing perceptions in the LGBTQ+ community, athletics and society at large — one chukker at a time.”

In the Year of the Horse, that message feels especially resonant. With its powerful symbolism of strength, unity and forward momentum, the horse serves as a fitting emblem for an event that continues to break barriers while honoring tradition. And in Wellington this month, that spirit will once again take center stage — galloping confidently toward a more inclusive future.

For tickets and more information about the International Gay Polo Tournament’s schedule of events, visit www.gaypolo.com/wellington-fl-april-23-25.

Sport, Celebration And Philanthropy Unite At GPL Tournament

As the Gay Polo League, the world’s only LGBTQ polo league, returns to Wellington April 23-25, the tournament once again promises a weekend where competition and community meet purpose.

This year, the league has selected Equality Florida as its beneficiary charity, with a portion of proceeds supporting the organization’s impactful Safe & Healthy Schools Project.

The initiative is dedicated to advancing safer, more inclusive environments for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning) students throughout the state — an effort that resonates deeply with GPL’s mission of fostering acceptance both on and off the field.

Philanthropy has long been at the heart of the Gay Polo League. To date, GPL has raised more than $400,000 for a range of charitable partners, including the Elton John AIDS Foundation, SAGE (a national advocacy organization for LGBTQ seniors), and the Compass Youth Program, which provides critical resources such as computers and health kits for homeless youth. Each year, the tournament builds upon this legacy, demonstrating how sport can serve as a powerful vehicle for community impact.

Founded in 1977, Equality Florida has grown into the state’s largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for Florida’s LGBTQ community. Through lobbying, grassroots organizing, public education and coalition building, the organization works tirelessly to ensure that no individual faces harassment or discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.

At the center of this year’s partnership is Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project, which aims to foster a culture of inclusion in schools while addressing the bullying, harassment, social isolation and bigotry that disproportionately affect LGBTQ youth. The program works with all 67 Florida school districts, equipping principals, assistant principals, counselors, psychologists, social workers, teachers and administrators with the tools they need to create affirming and supportive environments for every student.

“The selection of Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project is a natural synergy for us,” GPL Founder and President Chip McKenney said. “We share a commitment to inclusion, encouragement and creating safe spaces where everyone can thrive. Together, we look forward to continuing to change perceptions in the LGBTQ community and its allies — one chukker at a time.”

Since the program’s inception in 2016, more than 30,000 individuals have been trained in nearly every Florida school district, making it a model for similar initiatives nationwide. In addition to working with educators, the project provides parents with vital resources to better support their LGBTQ children, reinforcing the idea that acceptance begins both in the classroom and at home.

Of course, no GPL weekend would be complete without its signature blend of glamour and celebration. Guests can kick off the festivities with one of the league’s most beloved traditions: the wildly popular “FUNraiser,” GPL Polotini Wigstock!, held at Mary Lou’s on Thursday, April 23. Proceeds from this high-energy, hair-raising evening will directly benefit Equality Florida and its Safe & Healthy Schools Project, adding even more meaning to the festivities. Guests are invited to embrace their most fabulous selves in a dazzling display of big hair, bold fashion and unapologetic self-expression — all in support of a truly impactful cause.

As the music pulses and the dance floor fills, internationally renowned DJ Citizen Jane will spin an electrifying mix of favorites and high-energy tracks, transforming the chic venue into a vibrant playground of creativity and individuality. Sequins shimmer, wigs soar to new heights and personalities shine as guests compete in the much-anticipated Wig Contest. The stakes are as fabulous as the looks, since the winner will receive two round-trip tickets to anywhere in the United States, courtesy of Delta Air Lines.

A portion of the proceeds from the International Gay Polo Tournament on Saturday, April 25, at the Patagones Polo Club will also benefit Equality Florida. From the pageantry of the opening parade to the beloved divot stomp and tailgate competitions, the day offers something for everyone — whether you are a seasoned polo enthusiast or a first-time spectator.

Adding to the philanthropic impact, more than $100 from each tailgate tent sponsorship and $10 from every tournament ticket sold will directly benefit Equality Florida, ensuring that every cheer from the sidelines contributes to meaningful change. It’s this seamless integration of sport, celebration and social good that sets the International Gay Polo Tournament apart.

As Wellington’s equestrian season reaches its stylish crescendo, the Gay Polo League once again proves that polo is more than a game — it is a platform for visibility, for community and for progress. With its signature blend of athleticism, elegance and advocacy, this year’s tournament invites guests to be part of something truly special: a weekend where every chukker, every cheer and every dazzling moment helps build a more inclusive future.

For tickets and further information about the International Gay Polo Tournament schedule of events, visit www.gaypolo.com/wellington-fl-april-23-25. To learn more about Equality Florida, visit www.eqfl.org.

A Hair-Raising ‘FUNraising’ Event Kicks Off GPL Weekend

As Wellington’s social season gallops on, the Gay Polo League (GPL) returns with one of its most anticipated traditions: “GPL Polotini Presents Wigstock!” Set for Thursday, April 23, the event kicks off the league’s 16th International Gay Polo Tournament weekend with an evening that is equal parts high-energy celebration and community gathering — with just the right touch of whimsy.

Hosted at Mary Lou’s in West Palm Beach, Wigstock! transforms the venue into a lively playground of style and self-expression. Known for its vibrant nightlife scene, Mary Lou’s provides the perfect backdrop for a night where revelers dress up in their most fabulous ensembles and outré wigs. Personality and creativity take center stage, and sequins shimmer.

From the moment guests arrive, it’s clear that this is no ordinary night out. Wigstock! invites attendees to embrace bold self-expression, with wigs ranging from glamorous to delightfully outrageous taking center stage. The unofficial motto says it all: “The higher the hair, the closer to heaven!” It’s a visual feast that reflects both the playful spirit of the Gay Polo League and the vibrant community it brings together.

Music drives the energy throughout the evening, as guests enjoy an energetic night of dancing to the beats of world-famous DJ Citizen Jane. Known for her upbeat, crowd-focused sets, she keeps the dance floor going with a mix of remixes and familiar favorites. A hosted bar serving premium spirits keeps things flowing, while the open, social atmosphere makes it easy to move between dancing, conversing and people-watching.

The highlight of the evening is the Wig Contest, where creativity takes the spotlight and guests compete for top honors. Equal parts fun and friendly competition, attendees are invited to show off their most creative looks. An added incentive to get those creative juices flowing is the prize for the Most Outrageous Wig: two round-trip tickets to anywhere in the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, courtesy of Delta Air Lines.

While the event leans into its playful side, it is a party with a purpose. To date, the Gay Polo League has raised more than $400,000 for charitable causes, and this event continues that tradition. Proceeds benefit Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project, which supports inclusive and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ students across the state.

What sets Wigstock! apart is its balance. The crowd is diverse, the energy is upbeat and the tone remains welcoming throughout. Whether guests come to dance, socialize or simply take in the scene, there’s a sense that everyone is part of something both joyful and meaningful.

In Wellington, where style and sport so often intersect, Wigstock! adds a welcome dose of whimsy to the season’s lineup. So put on your boldest wig, bring your friends and be part of a night where style, music and community come together for a meaningful cause.

GPL’s Polotini Wigstock! will take place Thursday, April 23 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Mary Lou’s, located at 250 Southern Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Tickets are $250, with proceeds supporting Equality Florida. For tickets, visit www.gaypolo.com/wellington-fl-april-23-25.