John Grady Burns will join the Natchez Garden Club to share some of his extensive expertise in decorating our homes for the upcoming holidays.

John Grady Burns, a Natchez native, has a bachelor in science in horticulture and retail floral management. Upon his graduation he was selected to work at the White House as well as the Blair House (home of the vice-president of the United States).

Mr. Burns made Atlanta his home in the 1980s. His skill, expertise and artistic ability helped him to become one of the premiere floral designers for weddings and special events.

He has also been featured in several floral and design publications. Mr. Burns insists that each event is unique because it is designed not from his own mind, but around the ideas, wishes and desires of each individual client.

Mr. Burns has authored two books, Personally Yours and Evergreen.

These delightful books address decorating and other related topics. The books will be on hand for you to purchase and have Mr. Burns personalize and/or sign.

To add to this delightful experience, Mr. Burns will be auctioning off some of his holiday pieces!

In addition to John Grady Burns’ presentation, book signing and auction there will be a cookie exchange.

We ask that each attendee bring three dozen of their favorite cookies, preferably homemade.

During the program we will enjoy the cookies along with coffee, hot chocolate and tea. At the conclusion of the meeting all guests will be able to choose a dozen cookies to take home.

Please make plans to join us for this wonderful and informative meeting at 10 a.m. Thursday at Magnolia Hall.

I hope to see you there!

Jo Ann Herrington is the president of the Natchez Garden Club.