The Garden Group division of the Mattapoisett Women’s Club took home two blue ribbons in competitions this fall.
The Rotch Jones Duff House “Celebrate the Season” Open House entry was a book theme this year. They chose The Call of the Wild by Jack London and in keeping with that theme and their assigned space, they decorated the boy’s bedroom in bear skins, ice fishing gear, antlers, animal pelts, and bark vases, along with flowers and greens and a very old, well-loved copy of the book on display.
They truly captured the heart of the story and took home a deserved third place ribbon. Sue Mitchell, Susan Perkins and Kathy McAuliffe were the members who competed.
The Garden Group, which has members who volunteer to decorate the Mansions for the Christmas Season in Newport, was invited to enter a Mantle Decorating Competition at Marble House in Newport. A team of three took home third place. The assigned mantle was in the bedroom of son, William; they chose a blue color scheme with gold and white packages and flowers that brought out the design on the beautiful mantle.
The center of the entry was a replica of the car driven by William. Photos on the wall show him in his car. Lauren Keene – the husband of Claire, a member of the team – helped build the car that was painted in the colors of the display.
Participating team members where Barbara Van Inwegen , Joan Halter and Claire Keene. Susan Perkins and Lauren Keene also helped on the committee. The hard work was awarded a blue ribbon.
The “Christmas at the Mansions” continues until January 3 with The Breakers, The Elms and Marble House all open and decorated beautifully. It is well worth the visit and a wonderful way to get in the spirit.