There’s no better way to get to know Mill District than to connect with the architects, designers and visionaries behind the project. That’s the goal of the new “Talk and Tasting” series we kicked off here in Healdsburg on July 18.

Our inaugural event was held in The Grove at Duchamp Hotel and featured a conversation with Landscape Architect Don Vita. Don is the founder of VITA Planning and Landscape Architecture, and the designer behind the Mill District gardens. During the intimate 45-minute talk, Don shared his philosophy and passion for landscaping—both on our project and in general.

Few landscape architects know more about the craft than Don. He has been practicing landscape architecture and land planning for more than 30 years. His experience includes large-scale town and resort planning and design throughout the Pacific Rim, Hawai’i, India and Australia; new community development in the western United States; urban design, city planning and waterfront assignments in New York, Hong Kong, China and the Philippines; and landscape design for private estates throughout the United States, Singapore and Hawaii.

Before, during and after Don’s talk, participants enjoyed wines from Ramey Wine Cellars and a dumpling bar prepared by Houtskool Artisan Dumplings. All told, the evening offered a perfect introduction to some of the people that make Healdsburg—and Mill District—unique. Stay tuned for information about more Talk and Tasting events later this year.