Julie Bifano

A Santa Barbara Garden Club member and one of this year's arrangements.

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Every two years, the Garden Club of Santa Barbara produces a show that includes horticulture and flower arrangement. On April 17 and 18 at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, the Garden Club displayed innovative flower arrangements, horticulture, jewelry, and photography set up in different areas of the museum. Ladeen Miller, the flower show Co-chairwoman explained to me how each of the four categories had a theme. For example, one section displayed jewelry made from organic plant material. The impressive flower arrangement section fell under the theme of “What If?” — that is, questions such as “What if flowers sang songs?” and “What if sea shells cast spells?” These prompts enabled different creative interpretations. Some of the arrangements had vibrant bold colors, while others took a more subtle approach. The show was judged by the Garden Club of America and certified judges from around the country came to award a winning piece in each section. “What makes a show is a glimpse into the creative minds of our talented members,” Miller opined. She also shared with me how each Garden Club member was given the same packet of poppy seeds and told to sprinkle them in the center courtyard of the museum. She described how much fun it was to see the different results, explaining her seeds were not a success, but others grew to be beautiful poppies. “I’ve been in the Garden Club since 1972. This show was the most creative I’ve seen. I’m so proud of the members,” said member Mary Dorra.

Julie Bifano

A Santa Barbara Garden Club member with one of this year's arrangements.

The Garden Club of Santa Barbara celebrates its 90th year as a member club of the Garden Club of America. Members work on civic projects, enhancing the beauty and conservation of Santa Barbara. These projects include the Healthy Schools Gardening Education program, The Community Environmental Council Green Project, the Santa Barbara High School Green Academy scholarships, and landscaping projects for Girls, Inc., Cottage Hospital, Casa del Herrero, the Music Academy of the West, and Laguna Cottages for Seniors to name a few.

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