White House decorator returns to annual ornament reception
For the sixth consecutive festive year, all are invited to enjoy more than 100 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 6, through Thursday, December 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Then they will also be on display and auctioned off during an Open House & Reception on December 13 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.
“Handmade pieces make perfect gifts,” said Geauga Park District’s special events coordinator, Teresa Runion, “as well as special additions to become treasured heirlooms in many cases.”
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 about working with the First Ladies over the years to decorate the White House are fascinating,” said Teresa. “While entertaining with these stories, Mr. Hixson also creates beautiful holiday greens arrangements then raffles them off to audience members. Last year several guests were the proud recipients of floral masterpieces.”
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 Teresa at 440-279-0882 or trunion@geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Geauga Park District is online, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
