About

Join the Cradle Graves Floral Workshop, a two-hour workshop from the Worship the Ground Series: A Brief History of a Sympathy Floral Practice with a Hands-on Workshop hosted by Rachael Watman from Swann's End Flowers and Cemetery Historian Sharon Pajka.

This workshop will begin with a 30-minute presentation that traces the history of cradle graves from their popularity during the Victorian era to today and will elucidate the rituals and specifics of caring for the cradle grave gardens. Discussion will include modern day volunteer groups who now tend to cradle graves.

After the presentation, the 90-minute hands-on workshop will have participants clean up and replant a cradle grave of their choosing in Presidents Circle at Hollywood Cemetery. Participants will learn about the importance of using native plants suited to the environmental conditions of the site.

This workshop costs $40 per person, which includes a $25 donation to Friends of Hollywood Cemetery. No refunds or transfers. Spaces are limited to 12 participants. An RSVP is required to attend.

Rachael Watman, MSW, is a gerontological social worker, death doula, and long-standing advocate for quality end-of-life care. Rachael is also a master gardener, growing, designing, and selling flowers via her farm, Swann's End Flowers in Powhatan, Virginia.