White House decorator returns to annual ornament reception
For the seventh consecutive festive year, all are invited to enjoy handmade holiday ornaments by regional artists through the “Art Takes a Bough” community art project.
These beautiful miniature pieces of artwork may be admired and purchased at “Buy It Now” prices Thursday, December 5, through Thursday, December 12, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Visitors may also cast their votes for the “People’s Choice Best of Show” ornament. Then ornaments will be on display again and auctioned off during an Open House & Reception on December 12 from 6 to 9 p.m.
Both events return this year to The West Woods Nature Center, 9465 Kinsman Road (Route 87) in Russell Township.
“Enjoy a festive evening sure to put you in the holiday mood!” said Eileen Smith, administrative services coordinator for Geauga Park District.
Reception guests will also have the opportunity to place silent bids on the artwork and enjoy holiday refreshments and music. Then, at 7 p.m., Bill Hixson, an accomplished floral designer who has helped decorate The White House for the holidays for almost 30 years, will talk about legends and lore surrounding popular, iconic holiday figures, as well as flora and fauna of the season.
Mr. Hixson’s stories are always a hit, particularly those about working with the First Ladies over the years to decorate the White House. While entertaining with these stories, Mr. Hixson also creates beautiful holiday greens arrangements, then raffles them off to audience members.
The speaker’s ornaments will be available for sale and signing at this wheelchair/stroller accessible event, as well.
Proceeds from the ornament auction/sale benefit participating artists, Geauga Park District, and Geauga Council for Arts & Culture. For more information, contact Eileen Smith at 440-279-0829 or esmith@geaugaparkdistrict.org.
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