The woman once charged with transforming the most powerful house in America into a place of poetry and petals is bringing her floral vision to the mountains of North Carolina.
Laura Dowling, Chief Floral Designer at the White House from 2009 to 2015, will visit Highlands on Saturday, September 20, for a day of inspiration, artistry—and a touch of presidential glamour.
From her basement in Alexandria, Virginia, to the East Room of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Dowling’s career is a study in reinvention. A former policy analyst with degrees in political science and public administration, she discovered her passion for flowers in Paris, where she stumbled upon the loose, naturalistic arrangements of French floral icon Christian Tortu. That encounter reshaped her life. What began as a hobby became a calling—and ultimately, a job application to the White House. Eight months later, after a competitive selection process worthy of a reality show, she was personally chosen by First Lady Michelle Obama.
During her six-year tenure, Dowling reimagined the White House’s floral identity with her signature “garden-style” arrangements: painterly compositions of rambling vines, flowering branches, and delicate blooms spilling from classical vessels. Her work graced state dinners, diplomatic receptions, and holiday celebrations, all while reflecting a philosophy that flowers should tell a story—of season, setting, and spirit.
Her latest book, Designing Christmas, showcases her signature approach—combining French-inspired artistry with the wildness of nature to create romantic, garden-style arrangements. The book offers innovative ideas and step-by-step tutorials for festive décor, featuring 10 design schemes including vintage Parisian and Italian-style motifs.
Highlands will have two opportunities to welcome Dowling and her vision. On Saturday, September 20, from 10:00 A.M. to noon, she’ll appear at Acorns, Old Edwards’ home décor, jewelry, furniture, and gift store, to sign copies of Designing Christmas and her previous books. Everyone is welcome to stop by for this free event.
In the afternoon, High Country Wine and Provisions will host a hands-on bouquet workshop with Dowling from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. Limited to 40 participants, this ticketed event offers guests the chance to learn directly from the woman who once arranged flowers for world leaders. (Tickets at kp-designs.com/events.)
Dowling’s visit isn’t just about floral technique. It’s a story of how creativity, discipline, and the courage to change course can bloom into something extraordinary. In a town that values beauty and craftsmanship, her presence feels like the perfect arrangement.
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