Join us on a guided tour at The Huntington Botanical Gardens, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rare plant collections.
During the tour, two botanists will share insights on the resiliency of plants after wildfires, highlighting nature’s remarkable ability to recover and adapt. Engage in insightful discussions, explore the themed gardens, and immerse yourself in a truly inspiring setting.
After the tour, enjoy a relaxed networking session over tea, fostering meaningful connections and engaging conversations in a serene atmosphere.
About Our Tour Guides
James Brumder, Associate Director of Garden Operations
James Brumder was born and raised in Pasadena to two parents who are avid gardeners. He has a lifetime of experience cultivating plants, and a great appreciation for the foundational connection with nature they provide us.
In the gardens, James's focus is on regenerative sustainability through water management, promoting soil health, reducing waste, and growing a resilient living collection by building and restoring healthy ecosystems. He has horticulture experience in nursery and landscape management both locally and across the Mediterranean. James was previously Regional Adviser for BrightView Landscape Company and Nursery Manager at Theodore Payne Foundation.
Derya Kadipasaoglu, Head Gardener
Derya moved to California about 13 years ago from Austin, Texas. While in graduate school in a field unrelated to botany or landscaping, she began to find increasing joy in exploring the outdoors. The more time she spent hiking and camping in California’s diverse landscapes, the more she came to appreciate the unique beauty of its native plants, in which toughness and beauty are inseparable.
Derya’s love of science, art, and nature led her to The Huntington, where she volunteered for 5 years before joining the Botanical staff. Now, as Head Gardener of the Education and Visitor Center, Derya works to make the garden reflect the landscapes of California that she loves and now calls home.
Registration
The registration fee for AWWEE members (and up to 2 guests) is $10. The non-member fee is $20. Please note that the actual cost is $29 per person and AWWEE is covering the difference.
If you are a member of The Huntington, please choose that option at registration to take advantage of your free admission benefit. If your membership includes a guest pass that you’d like to use at this event, please notify AWWEE staff.