NATCHEz — Natchez native, John Grady Burns, attributes his level of taste to the “Garden Club Ladies” of Natchez.

“Not only do they appreciate and preserve beauty, but they promote it,” he said.

Mr. Burns graduated with a bachelor of science degree in horticulture and retail floral nanagement from Mississippi State University, where he had the privilege of studying under Professor Emeritus Ralph Null.

Upon graduation, he was invited to go to Washington, D.C. to work with the White House, Blair House, and numerous ambassadors and foreign and domestic dignitaries.

He has made his home in Atlanta since the mid 1980s, where his floral designs, prestige and pure skill attract clients and accounts like the Ritz Carlton Atlanta and the Atlanta Symphony.

Burns has also taught the art of floral design at Kennasaw State College, and presently at Hall’s Atlanta Floral Design School. He is often featured in major floral and design publications, and has won best in show, professional division, in the Southeastern Regional Flower Show in Atlanta.

He operates his floral design business, Flora, in Atlanta and also owns Beekman Place Livery, a comfortably designed, two-story bed and breakfast home in Natchez.

In his new book, “Personally Yours,” Burns insists that each event he designs in unique because the theme comes not from his own mind, but from the client’s wishes and wants.

“This is your theme,” he said as he explains the meaning of the book’s title, “And that is what makes each wedding, reception, anniversary or ball beautiful and different.”

The more than 200 photos and descriptions in this book will inspire everyone, from the seasoned designer to the casual decorator, to create the look or event that is perfect for you.

John Grady Burns will be signing Personally Yours Saturday, June 6, from 1 until 3 at Cover to Cover Books & More, 401 Main Street. For information call 601-445-5752.