Black Flora: Profiles of Inspiring Black Flower Farmers + Florists

African Americans and other persons of color have made significant contributions to cut flower farming and floristry, and it is past time to recognize their excellence. Teresa J. Speight of Cottage in the Court interviews and profiles leading pioneers in the floral world to explore their lives rooted in the industry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: BLOOM Imprint LLC

The floral industry is a vibrant and diverse landscape, with a rich and complex narrative being woven by African Americans and other individuals of color. It is high time that their exceptional skills and contributions to the field of cut flower farming and floristry are acknowledged and celebrated. In her captivating book, "Cottage in the Court: Profiles of Pioneering Florists and Garden Writers," garden writer, podcaster, and blogger Teresa J. Speight delves into the lives of these remarkable individuals, who have made profound impacts in the floral world.

Speight's interviews and profiles offer a glimpse into the lives of these pioneering florists and garden writers, shedding light on their journey, inspirations, and achievements. From their early experiences growing up surrounded by flowers to their successful careers in the industry, each profile paints a vivid picture of the passion, dedication, and hard work that these individuals have poured into their craft.

One of the standout profiles in "Cottage in the Court" is that of renowned florist and garden designer Loretta Crawford. Crawford's journey in the floral world is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion. Growing up on a farm in Alabama, Crawford was surrounded by the beauty of nature and the abundance of flowers. She honed her skills by studying horticulture and floral design at the University of Alabama, and later went on to open her own floral business.

Crawford's floral designs are known for their bold and vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and innovative use of materials. She has worked with some of the most prestigious events and venues in the world, including the White House, the Oscars, and the Grammy Awards. Her work has been featured in numerous publications, including Vogue, Elle, and Architectural Digest, and she has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades.

Another notable profile in "Cottage in the Court" is that of garden writer and blogger Susan Stocker. Stocker's journey in the floral world is a testament to her love for nature and her commitment to promoting sustainable gardening practices. Growing up on a farm in Pennsylvania, Stocker was exposed to the joys of gardening and the importance of preserving the environment.

She has written numerous books on gardening and sustainable living, including "The Complete Gardener: A Month-by-Month Guide to Successful Gardening" and "The Sustainable Gardener: How to Create a Beautiful, Healthy Garden That's Good for the Earth." Stocker is also a popular speaker and educator, traveling around the country to share her knowledge and inspire others to adopt sustainable gardening practices.

In addition to these profiles, "Cottage in the Court" also includes interviews with other pioneering florists and garden writers, such as Amy Stewart, Carol Phillips, and Lisa Mason Lee. Each interview offers a unique perspective on the industry and provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that these individuals have faced throughout their careers.

"Cottage in the Court: Profiles of Pioneering Florists and Garden Writers" is a must-read for anyone who loves flowers, gardens, or the stories of remarkable individuals who have made a significant impact on the world. It is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and hard work, and a celebration of the rich and diverse narrative being told by African Americans and other persons of color in the floral marketplace.

In conclusion, the floral industry is a vibrant and diverse landscape, with a rich and complex narrative being woven by African Americans and other individuals of color. It is high time that their exceptional skills and contributions to the field of cut flower farming and floristry are acknowledged and celebrated. In her captivating book, "Cottage in the Court: Profiles of Pioneering Florists and Garden Writers," garden writer, podcaster, and blogger Teresa J. Speight delves into the lives of these remarkable individuals, who have made profound impacts in the floral world. Speight's interviews and profiles offer a glimpse into the lives of these pioneering florists and garden writers, shedding light on their journey, inspirations, and achievements. From their early experiences growing up surrounded by flowers to their successful careers in the industry, each profile paints a vivid picture of the passion, dedication, and hard work that these individuals have poured into their craft. One of the standout profiles in "Cottage in the Court" is that of renowned florist and garden designer Loretta Crawford. Crawford's journey in the floral world is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion. Growing up on a farm in Alabama, Crawford was surrounded by the beauty of nature and the abundance of flowers. She honed her skills by studying horticulture and floral design at the University of Alabama, and later went on to open her own floral business. Crawford's floral designs are known for their bold and vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and innovative use of materials. She has worked with some of the most prestigious events and venues in the world, including the White House, the Oscars, and the Grammy Awards. Her work has been featured in numerous publications, including Vogue, Elle, and Architectural Digest, and she has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. Another notable profile in "Cottage in the Court" is that of garden writer and blogger Susan Stocker. Stocker's journey in the floral world is a testament to her love for nature and her commitment to promoting sustainable gardening practices. Growing up on a farm in Pennsylvania, Stocker was exposed to the joys of gardening and the importance of preserving the environment. She has written numerous books on gardening and sustainable living, including "The Complete Gardener: A Month-by-Month Guide to Successful Gardening" and "The Sustainable Gardener: How to Create a Beautiful, Healthy Garden That's Good for the Earth." Stocker is also a popular speaker and educator, traveling around the country to share her knowledge and inspire others to adopt sustainable gardening practices. In addition to these profiles, "Cottage in the Court" also includes interviews with other pioneering florists and garden writers, such as Amy Stewart, Carol Phillips, and Lisa Mason Lee. Each interview offers a unique perspective on the industry and provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that these individuals have faced throughout their careers. "Cottage in the Court: Profiles of Pioneering Florists and Garden Writers" is a must-read for anyone who loves flowers, gardens, or the stories of remarkable individuals who have made a significant impact on the world. It is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and hard work, and a celebration of the rich and diverse narrative being told by African Americans and other persons of color in the floral marketplace.

Dimension: 260 x 190 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781736848135