About

Join the Presidential Wreath Laying Floral Workshop on Saturday, April 25, at 10:30am-12:30pm, 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.

This workshop will begin with a 30-minute presentation that traces the history of memorial wreaths for US Presidents from mourning traditions for President Lincoln to formal military ceremonies enacted by President Johnson to modern day White House practices. Participants will learn about the Presidential Wreath Laying tribute for Presidents Monroe and Tyler buried at Hollywood Cemetery.

After the presentation, the 90-minute hands-on workshop will teach participants how to hand-make a wreath base and adorn with flowers and locally foraged natural elements from Swann's End Flower farm. Participants will be encouraged to patriotically personalize their wreaths. Participants can choose to take their wreaths home or lay them at the graves of John Tyler or James Monroe.

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. Participants must RSVP 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.