Almost.
Stack, who has run the i Fiori kiosk selling flowers across from La Di Da for 17 years and does weddings and special events, was set to handle flowers for the inauguration — ballrooms, dinners, table displays — through the Society of American Florists. But that changed when the Presidential Inaugural Committee decided, in light of the economy and Obama’s economic priorities, to trim back on the event.
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She was disappointed for herself — but agreed with the decision.
“I thought it was a great perspective that the president not produce a lavish event due to the economy and the wars,” she said.
She had experience with presidential posies in 1989 when, through the SAF, she handled floral decorations for 31 ballrooms and dinners, working with thousands of flowers and hundreds of people, for the inauguration of President George H.W. Bush. This year, she applied to the SAF again, and was accepted (as an unpaid volunteer,) but the presidential committee decided otherwise in December.
“I think of the big picture, and, though I would have loved to have gone, I agree with the philosophy,” she said. “I am pleased that this is the direction we’re taking as Americans. I’m happy for those local florists getting a chance. I don’t look at it as a missed opportunity.”
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