The theme for this year’s Flower Show was “Pearls of Newport.” And can there be a more appropriate pearl than Rosecliff, this architecturally splendid Gilded Age mansion, where many a bride has lived out her dream in its 40’x 80′ ballroom (the largest in Newport) and Great Gatsby was filmed.

Imagine my surprise, and fascination, when I walked into the ballroom on Opening Night and saw a sailboat gracing the center of the room…reminding one that the Show’s theme connects naturally to Newport’s coastal identity and maritime history. What a statement!! (I only wish I’d been there to see this boat making its way through the black iron front doors). Somehow the boat’s sails, silhouetted against the cloud-painted ceiling, helped you imagine that a boat could actually be sailing in this room.

For thirty years Rosecliff has hosted the Newport Flower Show. And she has never looked more gorgeous…each jewel of a floral creation played up the intricate plaster work, the glittering chandeliers, the gilded furnishings, that painted ceiling…and a wall of French doors that open to the oceanfront terrace.

The winning “Best in Show”! A class that honored those many brides who have descended Rosecliff’s heart-shaped staircase to say, “I Do”.

A hat for M’lady…

Rosecliff’s terrace is always home to the horticulture entries, including small reincarnations of gardens from around the world and a glorious collection of cut specimens from everyone’s gardens (my fave class).

WOW! Talk about a gorgeous day! Showing off the great lawn that rolls down to the balustrade overlooking the ocean.

Clouds come in, and clouds go out…but nothing dampens the fun of shopping the tented boutiques on the back lawn.

Closing with Rosecliff’s rose garden, almost hidden away on it’s south-facing side, even more elegant in its simplicity when juxtaposed with the majestic architecture.

Summer days are here, always heralded by the Newport Flower Show, never more so than this year. Enjoy!!!