A behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the inaugural floral decorations

The swearing-in ceremony. The First Lady's gown. These images define the tradition of United States presidential inaugurations. But few define it with as much beauty and elegance as the floral decorations designed exclusively for the festitivities surrounding the celebration.

Since John F. Kennedy's administration, the Society of American Florists (SAF) and its team of top floral designers and industry professionals have provided the floral arrangements needed for inaugural events. This year SAF assembled more than 150 floral industry volunteers from 32 states and the District of Columbia to dress up the inauguration of President George W. Bush. Designers put their skilled hands on 150,000 roses, tulips, lilies and other flowers from around the world, and designed and delivered more than 1,500 centerpieces, podium pieces and stage arrangements.

In years past, SAF met with inaugural planners weeks in advance to map out the floral theme and logistics. This time around, like the rest of the country, the inaugural planners had to wait a full month after the election until the ballots were counted and certified to get things rolling.

Tight schedules are familiar territory to the floral industry. "Florists, wholesalers, growers and suppliers continually respond to rapid changes and the needs of their customers," says Charles Kremp, SAF Inaugural Floral Project Chairman. "The inauguration is a large-scale example of what we handle every day."

Working from a warehouse in downtown Washington, D.C., SAF volunteers spent more than 5,000 hours during inauguration week creating classic, sophisticated works of floral art for nine balls, three dinners and other events. "The inaugural is our country's grandest celebration," Kremp said. "We were honored to help present this very special event for the Bushes, Cheneys and all Americans."

Click here for more pictures from the inauguration floral preparations.

Click here to print this page

Previous Page