Flower Show Spotlight: Barbara King of Valley Forge Flowers

Photo by Jauhien Sasnou

Even if you’ve been to a dozen Philadelphia Flower Shows, you’ve probably never met Barbara King. But you’ve no doubt seen her work. King, president of Wayne’s upmarket Valley Forge Flowers, has designed the extravagant entrance installations for seven shows and has been involved since she can remember. “I’m a third-generation florist,” King explains. “I was always trailing behind my parents.” Expect a more creative and innovative flower show than usual (thank goodness!) due to the theme: “ARTiculture,” with installations from scores of horticulture enthusiasts inspired by the masters. King’s is based on the work of sculptor Alexander Calder. “Normally the rules and guidelines for the show are very strict,” she says. “But this year, there is no wrong way. Every arrangement is its own picture — a thing of beauty.” March 1st to 9th, Pennsylvania Convention Center, Center City, 215-988-8800.

First appeared in the March, 2014 issue of Philadelphia magazine.