Skip the brunch preparation. Avoid long lines at your favorite restaurant. Just bring Mom down to Art in Bloom for its 19th annual event on May 11 and 12. The non-profit organization of the same name seeks to enrich and beautify the community with an ever-growing event. They have it all, and there is absolutely no rush. Instead, plan to take your time and stop and smell the roses and gardenia and wisteria and whatever else intrigues you.

Speaking of flowers, Amy Rose, Event Coordinator has a special bond with her Mom—the former Art in Bloom Coordinator, so it truly is a mother-daughter thing.

Rogue Valley Messenger: How long have you been involved with “Art in Bloom”?

Amy Rose: Ten years I have helped with the event and the last nine, I have been the Coordinator. Before that, it was my Mom. She manages a fair in California, and we work together on it (Art in Bloom). We both got our start in Jackson County Fair.

RVM: How can folks make the most of this event on Mother’s Day Weekend?

AR: I encourage people to do the buffet at Inn at the Commons and then walk over to the Common Block because there is so much to do and see. Everything from Panache to Chip Wright karate. You can even buy your gift there because you know how you never know what to get for your Mom. It is the perfect place to buy her a gift original and handmade. Let her choose what she wants, right? We have a horticulture section and we have over 120 juried artisans, and we do not duplicate very much. Our board is very careful. We do not care about just getting a vendor fee. It is not about that. We make sure the product is nice and has a pristine look.”

RVM: What stands out for this year at the event?

AR: We have one BMX Rider from Mt. Ashland, Dave Nourie. He does bike academies for kids at the YMCA and teaches them tricks and pairs it with following your dreams. He will do three shows on Saturday and two on Sunday.

Art in Bloom
10 am – 5 pm, Saturday
11 am – 4 pm, Sunday
Vogel Plaza, Lithia Commons and surrounding blocks, Medford.