With flowers in full bloom and gorgeous weather, it’s time for a garden party — Glory in the Garden, that is.

The Marietta Educational Garden Center will present this fundraiser April 28 at 7 p.m. on the grounds of Fair Oaks at 505 Kennesaw Ave. in Marietta.

“The beautiful gardens and the antebellum home provide a wonderful atmosphere for this event,” said Michelle Davenport who co-chairs the event with Kelie Crowe, Angela Poston and Mary Ansley Southerland.

Be sure that partygoers are pulling out their china and linens for this Chastain-style event featuring the band Caribbean Steel. Tables for eight start at $350. Pack your own picnic or opt for buffet at an additional charge of $30.

Tablescapes designed and executed by party-goers range from elegant to whimsy. Prizes will be awarded for the best display.

“The table decorations are always fun because they’re all different,” Davenport said. Though the event is always a highly anticipated festivity, the evening serves a greater purpose. Funds raised benefit MEGC, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization headquartered in Fair Oaks c. 1852.

Fair Oaks and surrounding acreage was donated in 1966 by the Benson family and remains one of the largest privately owned and maintained green spaces in Cobb County. MEGC is funded mostly by member support and supplemented through rental income.

“It costs $90,000 a year to maintain the home,” said Davenport, a member of the Southern Magnolia Garden Club.

Fundraisers such as Glory in the Garden make it possible to maintain the house. Capital improvement projects are in process for the roof, porch and column repairs.

“It’s important to maintain these old homes with history and character in Marietta,” she said. “Fair Oaks is a connection to our past.”

Co-chair and president of MEGC Board of Trustees, Mary Ansley Southerland said, “How wonderful it has been to watch this event grow to become one the most well-attended and successful events in town. We have several new corporate sponsors this year, and it is gratifying to know that the community supports us.

“(Glory in the Garden) is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors and the history of what Marietta has to offer,” Davenport said.

For sponsorship and table opportunities or to learn more about MEGC, visit www.mariettagardencenter.com or call (770) 427-3494.