Monday, October 13, 2008

David Pippin - Floral Design Celebrity (and Friend of the Garden)

David does the Mansion!

Richmond floral designer and educator, creator of beautiful gala arrangements, AND long-time Friend of the Garden, Mr. David Pippin is in charge of Christmas decor for the Governor's Mansion! According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch article by Julie Young:

"Betty Moore didn't know she would be doing homework for Gov. Timothy M. Kaine when she enrolled in a horticulture class at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College.

Moore and nine fellow students in David Pippin's Christmas florals class are working with horticulturist Shannon Smith at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden to create natural holiday ornaments and arrangements for the Executive Mansion.

Virginia first lady Anne Holton wanted this year's official tree to replicate one Smith did last year for the Ginter library as part of the GardenFest of Lights celebration. The tree was covered with botanical ornaments Smith made out of materials gleaned from Ginter gardens and dried by the staff.

"I saw their all-natural tree at the botanical garden last year and was wowed by its beauty and creativity," Holton said. "The natural materials were extraordinary and highlighted so well."

Amy Bridge, director of the Executive Mansion, told Pippin that Holton's only directive was "no artificial flowers." "But other than that," Pippin said, "we could do whatever we wanted. We did laugh and talk about inflatables on the lawn."

Inflatables...we're so proud!! Read more about David's project here.

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