Speakers Calendar
Houseplants: Bringing Natural Beauty into Home & Work Spaces
April 1, 2026 11:00 am
In recent years, houseplants have moved from simple décor to a full-fledged cultural
movement, especially among younger generations. What began as a quiet trend
blossomed during the pandemic, when people sought comfort, beauty, and a sense of
connection within their homes. Today’s “plant parents” embrace houseplants for their
calming presence, their ability to brighten small spaces, and the joy of nurturing
something living. From easy-care pothos to dramatic fiddle-leaf figs, indoor plants
have become a gateway to wellness, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the
natural world. This presentation explores the roots of this modern houseplant revival
and the ways indoor gardening continues to inspire new stewards of green living.
Speaker: Diane Moore, Hamilton County Master Gardener
Photography Workshop: Capturing Nature’s Beauty
May 6, 2026 11:00 am
At last, learn how to maximize the use of your iPhone camera to capture nature’s beauty in this long awaited workshop! Kim Hubbard, a freelance photographer and lifelong nature and animal lover will share her story as she guides us through the art of iPhone photography. Kim’s experience includes many years spent at National Geographic, Audubon, and National Wildlife Federation. Her work has appeared in too many publications to mention and she has held several solo exhibitions. Delighted to be back in her hometown, Chattanooga, she is the first artist-in-residence at McLemore on Lookout Mountain. After her workshop, put your newfound skills to test in Kyoung-Hee and Yune-Gill’s heavenly surroundings. Wander through the lush gardens, take in the majestic views and capture the beauty of the birds and the bees, and the flowers and the tree …Oh, what a wonderful day! Dress: Garden Casual.
Speaker: Kim Hubbard
From Colonial Rarity to Spring Glory: The Story of Bulbs
June 3, 2026 11:00 am
Bulbs have traveled a remarkable path in American garden history. In Colonial
times, they were rare luxury plants, precious bulbs imported at great cost and
grown in small, cherished clusters near the home. Their vivid colors and exotic
forms signaled refinement in an era when most gardens were strictly practical.
Over the centuries, as trade expanded and horticulture flourished, bulbs, especially
tulips shifted from elite collectibles to beloved spring staples. Today, they create
the sweeping, colorful displays we associate with the season, transforming public
parks and home gardens alike into lovely celebrations of renewal for all to see.
Speaker: Debbie Bauder, Hamilton County Master Gardener
Decorative Elements In the Garden from 1776 to 2026
September 2, 2026 11:00 am
In Colonial gardens, decorative elements served a restrained but purposeful role,
reinforcing order, utility, and classical simplicity. Sundials, modest urns, simple
topiary, and wattle fencing added structure and refinement without distracting from
the garden’s productive work. In her presentation, our speaker will share her
collection of garden ornament photos to show how these elements have evolved
into a far broader and more expressive art form. No longer dependent on gardens
for survival, modern gardeners use sculpture, artistic accents, and distinctive plant
forms to celebrate individuality, creativity, and to give a strong sense of place.
eaker: Karen Persinger, Owner - Rising Fawn Gardens
Bartram’s Garden: Where American Botany Began
October 7, 2026 11:00 am
Join us today as we explore Bartram’s Garden, the oldest surviving botanical garden
in the United States and the birthplace of American botany. Founded in 1728 by John
Bartram and later expanded by his son William, the garden became a center of early
scientific discovery. In honor of America250, we will learn what role this remarkable
garden played during the era of the Constitutional Convention and how its legacy
reminds us that the natural world shaped our nation’s early identity and continues to
inspire our commitment to conservation today.
Speaker: Ann Brown, LMBGC Member
Fresh Inspiration for Gardeners
November 4, 2026 11:00 am
Looking for gardener guidance on how to start a pretty flower, herb, or kitchen garden? Want to know the best tool for the job or to bliss out on glamorous gardening websites? Then join LMBGC Program Coordinators, Penny Simmons and Melanie Riddle for a lively and informative program featuring fellow gardeners’ savvy tips; a display of members favorite gardening tools & accessories; a collection of fab gardening books and seed sources and lastly, a visual overview of classic and trending websites, apps and videos! Whether new to gardening or a master, leave with a plethora of sources that will make you delightfully giddy with fresh gardening inspiration! (Handout)
Speaker: Penny Simmons and Melanie Riddle
Christmas Traditions in the Southern Colonies
December 3, 2025 11:00 am
Join us for a look into the warmth and spirit of an Early American Christmas.
We will explore how Christmas was celebrated in the Southern Colonies—a
season shaped by worship, hospitality, and community cheer. We’ll look at
how English traditions guided the holiday as both a sacred day of rest and a
joyful time for gathering with family and neighbors. Discover how colonial
households filled the Twelve Days of Christmas with church services,
generous meals, visiting, music, dancing, and even a bit of hunting. We’ll also
enjoy a glimpse of the simple, natural decorations—evergreen boughs, holly,
and mistletoe—that echoed English customs while adapting to life in the New
World.
Creator: Holly Jolly Food Committee
Orchids at Cheekwood Mansion and Garden Estate
February 4, 2026 8:30 am Departure
Let’s leave the winter blues behind and escape to Nashville’s historical 55 acre estate: Cheekwood Mansion and Gardens. We will view the enchanting orchid displays in the beautiful period rooms, learn the exceptional history of the estate, view its’ world class art, meet for lunch and explore their winter garden areas. Friends will sit back and catch up as our coach travels through beautiful scenery and drops us off at Cheekwood. Later, as we journey back home from our inspiring escape, we may even enjoy a well deserved cocktail soiree - compliments of some sassy garden girls! Details: coming soon.
Coordinators: Melanie Riddle and Penny Simmons
Installation of Officers: New Beginnings
March 4, 2026 11:00 am
The installation of the new officers for 2026-2027 will be held at the Lookout Mountain Club golf clubhouse. Situated on the mountaintop, it offers breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains and the beautiful Seth Raynor golf course. This setting is perfect for enjoying a delicious lunch and sharing fellowship!