Wednesday, November 5, 2008

November Speaker - Bill Graham

Bill Graham lives on the North Shore of Massachusetts, and is the owner of Beautiful Things in historic Salem, Massachusetts.
His shop specializes in creative floral design, interesting gifts, whimsical items, women's accessories, millinery (hats and fascinators), some men's items and selected Halloween merchandise including his widely popular "witches" hats which he decorates. It is also the home of "The Girls" which are handmade dolls with a little flair and a little of Salem's magic. Remember, Salem is the world capitol of Halloween!
Bill delights in creating different and unique designs. He likes the challenge of trying new ideas and innovative techniques. His prior education in Art and his retailing experience have strengthened his ability to stay in tune with current market trends in the world of flowers, fashions, gifts, etc.
Bill is recognized in the floral world as a professional designer, commentator, educator, instructor, motivator, innovator and facilitator. He has assisted and, contributed to organizations that fundraise for worthy causes such as the Women's Friends Society, the Peabody Essex Museum ,the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, the Hospice of the North Shore and benefits for AIDS Research and Breast Cancer. He contributed many hours to the AIDS Hospice of Mission Hill with floral entertainments for patients and families .
Bill is a longtime member of the prestigious American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), the American Academy of Florists (AAF) and the Professional Floral Commentators International. The latter is a designation usually enjoyed by one hundred individuals in the floral industry. Consequently, when you receive his business card, it reads: Bill Graham AIFD,MF, PFCI.
Bill is a member of the Danvers Garden Club, Danvers,. MA, the Lowell Garden Club, Lowell, MA, and honorary member of the Salem Garden Club, Salem, MA. He was most recently honored by the Massachusetts Federation of Garden Clubs with a Lifetime Membership Award.
Bill has informed and entertained so many Garden Clubs, other organizations, and industry-related groups that there are too many to list. Bill has many suggestions for different programs, some widely welcomed by all and some tailored for specific organization's needs. He is an entertainer and a humorist and loves sharing his ideas, anecdotes, and delightful stories. He listens to you as well, and sometimes you become a part of the program. That gives you a glimpse of Bill Graham ' s world. Bill believes that "LIFE IS NOT A DRESS REHEARSAL!" Enjoy!!