Spring came early this year, at least for guests who attended the Minnesota State Horticultural Society Spring Garden Gala.

The gala, which was so popular that it had to be divided into an afternoon lunch and an evening dinner, boasted fragrant floral displays and a plant fashion show, as well as silent and live auctions, raffles and giveaways.

The events raised funds for the programs of the society, now in its 150th year, including plant donations, gardening classes and Northern Gardener magazine.