Floral Diplomacy at the White House

Fifteen years ago, Laura Dowling was inspired to change careers from strategic communications to flowers after travelling to Paris and becoming intrigued with French flower design. She studied French floral art under the direction of leading Parisian designers and continued her floral training with German master florist Gregor Lersch, operating a small studio out of her basement kitchen. From this position, Laura competed in the nation-wide search for the prestigious position of White House Chief Floral Designer and won, proof that identifying and following a passion can lead to extraordinary things.
Laura served as Chief Floral Designer at the White House from 2009 until 2015. In this unique position, she managed décor and flowers for literally thousands of White House events. She broke new ground with the idea that flowers could be more than just decorative placements; she views floral designs as an important strategic tool that can communicate specific diplomatic, symbolic and policy messages.
Laura recently launched a new platform that expands her event design and consulting portfolio to including writing and speaking about floral design, and presenting workshops and demonstrations throughout the world. Laura's goal is to share her unique vision for creating flower designs in the garden style and to inspire others with her personal story.