-
SUPER SILENT AUCTION #1 Spectacular Diamond Ring
Value: $7,800 | Donor: Gunderson’s JewelersHandpicked for Sunset Affair: Discover Como from the experts at Gunderson’s Jewelers, this three-row crisscross rose gold ring is a showstopper!
A small treasure with a powerful impact, this size six ring boasts an impressive display of 118 diamonds exquisitely set in three 14k rose gold bands. The intertwining rows adorned with 1.63 CTW of diamonds create a remarkable and dazzling effect.
Splurge on yourself, indulge a loved one with a luxurious gift, or celebrate a milestone occasion with this on-trend, but never out of style, sparkling gem.
The winning bidder can have the ring complimentary sized at Gunderson’s Jewelers’ new store in downtown Wayzata.
-
SUPER SILENT AUCTION #2 Discover Como
Value: Priceless | Donor: Como Friends and Como Park Zoo & ConservatoryComo Park Zoo & Conservatory is a beloved and welcoming treasure for all, filled with amazing animals, unique plants, and extraordinary people. Discover the best of Como with this one-of-a-kind package created just for this year’s Sunset Affair.
Customize your experience for 4 people by choosing two Behind-the-Scenes Tours from Como’s unique offerings, including “Giraffe Feeding,” “Meet Sparky and Friends,” “Greet Chloe the Sloth,” or “Get to Know Como’s Polar Bears.” Continue your exploration of Como with a never before offered opportunity to have a “Lunch and Learn” with Michelle Furrer, Como Campus Manager, and Jackie Sticha, President of Como Friends. You’ll get the inside scoop about how the zoo and conservatory thrive and hear personal stories from their combined tenure of more than 35 years of leadership at Como!
To round out this once-in-a-lifetime package, the winning bidder gets a before hours private shopping trip at Como Friends’ Garden Safari Gifts to select Como gear and unique gifts without the crowds; two tickets to the fundraiser, Bouquets; and a team of six for Como Friends’ new family-friendly event, Como Quest.
-
SUPER SILENT AUCTION #3 Name Como Zoo’s New Baby Dall’s Sheep
Value: Priceless | Donor: Como Park Zoo & ConservatoryComo Zoo recently welcomed a new baby Dall’s Sheep! Be the winning bidder and you’ll be on a first-name basis with this darling lamb born to mom, Sunny, and dad, Sylvester, on June 17, 2022.
Considered real world cliff hangers, Dall’s sheep call the rugged mountain slopes of Northwest North America home. Como’s adorable newborn is full of vim and vigor as he explores his rocky surroundings and discovers how to jump, run, and climb. Eventually, Como’s cutie pie will sport his massive curly horns, good for head butting, but for now, he only has a soft, fluffy coat.
Bid on the auction to select just the right name for this lovable creature. This special opportunity is a perfect activity to involve the entire family and will be a truly memorable experience.
-
SUPER SILENT AUCTION #4 Explore Baltimore
Value: Priceless | Donor: Revival Baltimore, part of JdV by Hyatt Hotels, U.S. Bank Altitude Points, National Aquarium, Maryland Zoo, Como Friends Board of TrusteesDiscover why Baltimore is a top tourist destination and a favorite getaway location with this travel package. From historic places and harbor cruises to family-friendly attractions and a vibrant arts scene, Charm City has something for everyone.
You will have a three-night stay at Revival, a boutique art-centric hotel in the iconic Mount Vernon neighborhood, close to the Inner Harbor. Your deluxe guest room will feature spectacular city views, custom art and luxe amenities. Revival, with its unique approach to hospitality and community partnerships, truly embodies the spirit of Baltimore.
This adventure to Baltimore comes with four admission passes to the National Aquarium, home to Shark Alley, two tickets to the Maryland Zoo along with a special Rhino training experience, a $250 Visa gift card, and 220,000 U.S. Bank Altitude Points for travel.
-
Only Como Item
Art by Subee the Sea Lion
Value: Priceless
Donor: Como Park Zoo & ConservatoryAfter graduating from “Sparky School” in 2016, Subee the sea lion took on the role of Como’s seventh Sparky the Sea Lion. With unbelievable energy and a love for learning, Subee not only excels as a conservation ambassador, she on occasion completes works of art as extra special enrichment. The winning bidder will take home this 10” x 8” canvas painting created by the one and only Sparky Snout.
-
ARTS & CULTURE
Kimono
Value: Priceless
Donor: Friend of ComoAn authentic work of wearable art, this handmade black silk kimono is pure elegance, with hand-stitching and authentic details.
-
BAGS & SPECS
Kate Spade Mini Tote
Value: $178
Donor: Nicky and Tim NagleWith the same utilitarian shape and thoughtful details that made it a crowd favorite in the 90s, Kate Spade New York has updated the Little Better Sam Sunshine Mini Tote with on-trend navy and white polka dots.
-
CHILDREN’S
Discover Como Doll
Value: $175
Donor: Mary Jo WolfWith a wild wardrobe custom-designed for “Sunset Affair: Discover Como,” this adorable 18″ doll is ready for an adventure! Her bags are already packed with handmade, custom clothing perfect for taking a nature walk, going exploring at Como Zoo, researching conservation in the field, or leading the safari! With a telescope, accessories and a trusty dog, she’s a great role model for learning more about the natural world.

CONTACT
Bid or Contribute

Como Friends’ Sunset Affair gala includes a silent auction featuring exclusive only-Como items, delectable wine and dine items, and one-of-a-kind artwork. To make an in-kind donation to the Sunset Affair silent auction, contact Bethany Paul, Events Manager.