CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

June 11, 2017 106 Comments

After about 25 years of wanting to go to this SHOW I MADE IT!

I think I will let the PHOTOS do the TALKING and let you enjoy THE TOUR!

Just sit back and take a GANDER…………..as they say!

The Flower Show is on the Grounds of this Hospital which houses VETS I do believe…..Correct me if I am WRONG!

A GOLD WINNER at THE SHOW.

Same Gold Medal…..inspired by MALTA!

There you GO LAURIE from STORIES & SCRIBBLES!

“The award for Best Show Garden deservedly went to James Basson for the M&G Garden, a monumental evocation of a Maltese quarry where nature and a gardener of exceptional talent have worked together to heal the scars of excavation.”

The View from the LOO!

Most beautiful PORT -A- POTTIES I have ever seen in a TENT!

There was a fountain of sorts to rinse your hands.

Took SILVER MEDAL

The boat is on REAL water which I liked but what did not work for me was the FAUX PAINTING in the arch.

BELOW

MY FAVORITE.

OLD WORLD CHARM.

Could use as a dollhouse if I ever get GRANDCHILDREN!

It is about 8:10AM can you tell by the light?

Rows and Rows of Beautiful Veggies.

Ps.I was the ONLY ONE IN A HAT!

We are INSIDE A TENT NOW………

A MARQUEE.

CAN YOU SMELL THESE BEAUTIES!

Note the attire…….

BLACK and BLACK and More Black…….

IT’s MAY

IT’s a FLOWER SHOW!

IT’S HOT by LONDON’s STANDARD’S!!!

A ~PLUS for ENSEMBLE!

BEST DRESSED OF THE DAY!

Even if SHE is SPORTING a bit of BLACK ACCENT!

MY THINKER!

THIS IS AN OLD OLIVE TREE!

I do not think I like THE IDEA that it resides in a POT!

Where was I headed?

THE BUST BEHIND ME!!!!!!!!

Mindy, this is for YOU!!!

LET’S GO BACK INSIDE THE BIG MARQUEE!

Since, you have now walked MOST of the outside exhibitors………..that I SNAPPED!

WE called these APE’s in ITALY.

The handyman or Farmer got around in these.

I guess if one has an ESTATE it would come in handy as a GARDEN MOBILE!

I told HIM He DESERVED A PHOTO!

I got a BIG GRIN for THAT!

Look at ALL the different colored POTATOES.

I asked how many days prior they started the display as the PEONY were STAGGERING!

FOUR DAYS BEFORE.

I have NEVER seen this rose in my ESCAPADES.

HAVE YOU?

I need it as these are TWO words I use FREQUENTLY!

ABSOLUTELY & FABULOUS

LACE DETAIL on the cuff………LOVED THIS!

Plus, the JACKET was PERFECT!This is a MAN with a sense of SPUNK……………we NEED More PEOPLE who have SPUNK!

DO YOU HAVE SPUNK?

This is THE QUEENS AUSTRALIAN CARRIAGE.

It’s an ANNIVERSARY but I do not remember what for……….

Can any of my MATES DOWN UNDER fill me in?

Note the LAMPS!

Note the E under the windows………could be PERFECT for going TO and FRO to fetch my GROCERIES!

Then again I already cause

ATTENTION

with my ensembles.

What would happen if I sped about town in a carriage!?

Maybe it’s time to find out!

I walked over 7 miles on this day in LONDON or so says my TRUSTY PHONE!

I wonder if I could KEEP UP with HER……………?

What was your favorite?

Did you like the GOLD MEDAL WINNER?

My Folly for my future Grandchildren?

Hope you felt you were on TOUR yourselves!

I now NEED to spend time in my own GARDEN.

SUMMER is HERE!

106 Comments

Leave your reply.

Anita
· Reply

June 26, 2017 at 4:19 PM

Well you certainly got there Elizabeth!!!
I’m not sure about the Gold Medal winning garden.
I heard one commentator describe it as a ‘Pet Cemetery”.
One thing, seeing your photos has been making me dream about going to Chelsea again.
I love everything about it………especially the hand washing fountain in the ladies loo!!!
You have some wonderful memories there or a wonderful trip.
Thanks Bella
Neat xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 27, 2017 at 8:44 AM
  
  That is a GOOD DESCRIPTION………..Pet Cemetery.
  I know YOU will GET THERE AGAIN……….it’s in YOUR BLOOD!
  Cannot wait to hear about your trip!
  XX
Lola Martínez Iniesta
· Reply

June 25, 2017 at 5:44 AM

DEAREST CONTESSA GUAPA,

I am SORRY… I AM LATE THIS TIME…
The last two posts are REALLY INTERESTING.
You have taught me a lot of things. THANK YOU.

I like all the pics, but some are favourite, of course.
I LOVE the first one: YOU LOOK LIKE THE QUEEN OF FLOWERS, SURROUNDED by YOUR “SUIVANTES” (just like in ancient French Courts).
The one with the BOAT IS BUCOLIC, the perfect place for a picnic…
YOUR DOLLHOUSE IS RAVISHING!!!
YOU ARE RADIANT IN THE EARLY MORNING SUN.
I FELL FOR THE OLD LADY WITH THE CANE!!! She is GORGEOUS!!! (I do need a cane even if I am younger than her -64-).

I DID NOT LIKE THE GOLD WINNER.

AND YEEEES… VIIIIVAAA SPUNKY PEOPLE!!!
¡¡¡VIIIIIVAAA LA GENTE CON AGALLAAAAAS!!!

THANK YOU FOR SHARING PART OF YOUR DREAM THAT CAME TRUE!!!

ABRAZOTES,

Lola.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  Author
  
  June 26, 2017 at 7:55 AM
  
  LOLA……………….LATE,EARLY……….NO DIFFERENCE YOU MADE IT and YOU ARE A STAR with YOUR CAPS and EXCLAMATION MARKS!!!!!!!!!SUMMER is upon us and I hope you have gotten outside away from LA COMPUTER and are ENJOYING the SEASON!MAny THANKS for STOPPING BY and sharing with me your LIKES!!!!!!!!!
  XX
RebeccaNYC
· Reply

June 24, 2017 at 6:01 AM

Such fun! Thanks for taking us along!!
The Style Crone
· Reply

June 23, 2017 at 7:18 AM

Elizabeth, what a wonderful flower show, and so happy that you got to be there. YOU were the best dressed! And your hat spectacular!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 23, 2017 at 12:56 PM
  
  I ENJOYED IT ALL SO VERY MUCH…………
  I Must GO BACK………especially to the countryside!
  XX
michele
· Reply

June 22, 2017 at 12:10 PM

that garden mobile! that ‘absolutely fabulous’ variety with its tissue-like delicacy and beauty. pretty blooms, but truly you were the undeniable standout rose as a vision of lovely in your ensemble. just stunning! 🙂
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 23, 2017 at 12:59 PM
  
  How NICE of YOU to say that!
  WE DO NEED THAT APE don’t WE!!!!!!!??Pronounced lower case a than pay!
  My garden is a hill but if I had mounds of FLATNESS THAT would be ON MY WISH LIST!!!!!
  XX
elizabeth@pineconesandacornsblog
· Reply

June 22, 2017 at 9:55 AM

Elizabeth,

What a wonderful glimpse at this iconic show! I must admit, the gold winner was not my favorite, but it was interesting. I like more traditional spaces.

I am sure that your own garden is looking fabulous and keeps you very, very busy. How wonderful to have such a stunning place that you have made from nothing after all these years!

I will watch the fireflies for you! We had not seen them here for about 8 years and then they appeared again last summer. This year they are everywhere and I love it!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 23, 2017 at 1:01 PM
  
  FIREFLY HEAVEN…………….
  We have CRICKETS that SING in the EVE for ME……….I must GO BUY MORE this YEAR!!!!!!!!!XX
kim
· Reply

June 19, 2017 at 4:45 PM

Elizabeth, What a wonderful photo diary of your adventure. Loved the pics and you most of all. I think you were dressed perfectly and if I was going I’d be wearing florals too. This sounds weird, but I am constantly disappointed in people’s attire. They just have no flair unlike the gentleman you took a photo of, and you.
England is my favorite spot in the summer. I love the gardens, the Pimm’s cups, the attitude of everyone that summer is here and let’s celebrate. It’s very infectious and unlike here, not 100 degrees, so very pleasant!! I am so glad you got to go and felt well. I bet Theodore is not straying from your side since you got home. They miss their moms! xx Kim
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 23, 2017 at 1:05 PM
  
  HAPPY to hear it’s NOT JUST ME!!!!!!!!
  HONESTLY………..BLACK and SLOPPY……..how casual can one get!
  I saw flip-flops worn to a graduation…………..and a dinner party in VENICE!
  I’m certain the Venice attire was ONE SET of EXPENSIVE Flip FLOPS but just saying……….it sends the WRONG MESSAGE.
  YOUTH copies what they SEE………….XX
Joy Moos
· Reply

June 15, 2017 at 5:09 AM

What a wonderful gift you have given us, Elizabeth…..the Chelsea Garden tour with you was fabulous…..the flowers jumped off the page and your comments made everything seem alive and exciting!
Isn’t wonderful when you can fulfill a dream?
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 15, 2017 at 8:40 AM
  
  IT IS JOY…………….I can check that off the LIST!
  SO, much MORE TO DO……………hard to get TODAYS ACTIVITIES done with this ORANGE CAT on MY LAP!How do I tell him I have to get going???!!!XX
Diana Amato
· Reply

June 13, 2017 at 5:21 PM

I’m loving the fabulous array of vibrant colors, the architecture that is the backdrop, and the stylish fashion whimsy you brought to the show! I can almost smell it, too! I’m always so happy and pleased when friends make their dreams come true. It’s like watching a piece of them blossom right before your eyes. So glad to know this one came true!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 14, 2017 at 7:22 AM
  
  What lovely words……………THANK YOU!!!!
  XX
Robin Fink
· Reply

June 13, 2017 at 11:19 AM

Beautiful photos, Elizabeth!! Thanks for sharing all of this and taking me along on you trip. You look gorgeous!! xoxo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 14, 2017 at 7:21 AM
  
  You will be HAPPY to know The ITALIAN broke an ESSELUNGA (Novoli) bowl this morning so I told him I better GO BACK!
  GRAZIE……….it was a MAGICAL trip.
  XX
cindy hattersley
· Reply

June 13, 2017 at 7:54 AM

Oh my gosh I am soooo jealous!! We need to have another get together to discuss this in it’s entirety! I think you need to come down for a couple of days! Yesterday was wonderful so enjoyed meeting everyone!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 14, 2017 at 7:19 AM
  
  I agree…………..WHAT FUN that was and for YOU to have come ALL that way!
  We must get together soon for another POW WOW……..so much to discuss!
  XX
Pat
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 9:51 PM

Potatoes!!!! What beauties!!!!
foodiefan
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 3:55 PM

Well you are “”Ab Fab”!! No one like you wandering around which surprises me as I thought there would have been more well dressed attendees! Wonderful photos and has made given me the desire to visit the Chelsea Flower Show one day…..so many friends were there this year so it will be interesting to hear their views. Loved all the mass flower plantings and the potatoes were quite fascinating!
I found this info on Wikipedia on the coach you saw……..The coach was presented to Queen Elizabeth II of Australia and the United Kingdom as the official gift on the occasion of the Australian Bicentennial on 8 May 1988, and first used in November of that year at the State Opening of Parliament. The coach was a gift from the Australian people. As one of the most modern of the royal carriages, the coach is fitted with electric windows, heating and hydraulic stabilisers; it is therefore regularly used for such occasions. The Australian State Coach is usually kept at the Royal Mews, where it can be viewed by the public.
And for a little bit of gossip…….
The Australian State Coach was used to convey the Prince of Wales, Duchess of Cornwall and Mr & Mrs Middleton from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace following the wedding of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine Middleton on 29 April 2011.
Your garden is looking magnificent from the photos you have posted on IG…..obviously all that rain was much appreciated by your plants! Enjoy your summer! xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 14, 2017 at 7:18 AM
  
  THANKS for your INVESTIGATION…………….MADAME DOWN UNDER!
  HOW INTERESTING!
  Makes me that much CLOSER to the ROYAL WEDDING!
  We are to HIT the 90’s this weekend……….I better get out there and give everything a GOOD SOAK!I love SUMMER especially SUMMER nights when one can dine outside!
  Hope ALL is well with YOU!
  XO
Sue Fogarty
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 3:48 PM

Lovely visit to the show, enjoyed all your pictures. I saw the golden carriage in Sydney before it travelled to London. google Jim Frecklington golden carriage, quite interesting.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 14, 2017 at 7:13 AM
  
  WILL DO!!!!!
  I understand from another comment HERE It was a GIFT!
  XX
Libby
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 1:32 PM

Beautiful! The colors….everywhere. And such perfect weather. I did follow you on IG when you posted. It is indeed a dream come true, Elizabeth. So glad you had SUCH a wonderful time. I leave this Thursday and my Cotswold adventure begins on Sunday, so stay tuned! Will try to post, but IG for sure. Let’s hope the weather is as nice as yours was!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 14, 2017 at 7:12 AM
  
  I will be waiting for PHOTOS!!!!!!!
  XX
juliet
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 1:22 PM

What stunning photos – you look like you belong at Chelsea, fabulous – thank you for sharing
Karen Persson
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 1:08 PM

How fun was that to view all those photos and read your humorous text! Hmm… My favorite? The garden mobile would be perfect for you. Seriously. I loved many of the photos and ideas.

You’re so entertaining and inspiring!

Love,

Karenxoxox
Graciela
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 12:52 PM

Gracias, gracias for sharing your beautiful adventures ! Always absolutely fabulous!
Loree
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 12:19 PM

What an awesome show. The flowers are so gorgeous that it’s hard to believe they are all real. You look like you enjoyed yourself immensely and I loved your outfits, especially t hat chartreuse one. Yes I had heard that the Gold winner was inspired by a Maltese quarry. Our buildings are made of those limestone blocks that were part of the exhibit. Over time, they turn to a deep gold colour.
I can see you riding in that carriage to get the groceries. You would surely make a royal entrance.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 14, 2017 at 7:11 AM
  
  GOLD…………..send me a PHOTO!!!!
  I did enjoy MYSELF……………
  Kept saying to myself I am HERE!!!!!
  XX
That's Not My Age
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 11:16 AM

Even the view from the loo is splendid
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 14, 2017 at 7:09 AM
  
  It IS……….XX
Sunday Hendrickson
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 10:56 AM

Wowsie, Contessa.
Grazie.
We delight in the show
but, mostly, we delight in your delight!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 4:12 PM
  
  Been thinking of YOU and your GRAND BABY!
  I always send you a photo of BOBBY JAMES this time of year but it was NOT PREFORMING this year…………in fact it was even LATE blooming!
  HOW ARE YOU HANGING IN THERE………..we must catch up!
  WATCH that PHONE as THE CONTESSA will be calling!!!!!
  XX
Bungalow Hostess
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 10:49 AM

Oh my goodness choosing just one favourite would be impossible! I loved seeing these gorgeous flower installations at The Chelsea Show. I can only imagine the excitement of actually being there!
Thank you for sharing these with us.
?????
- Bungalow Hostess
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 10:50 AM
  
  Those question marks should have been Rose emoji’s!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 4:10 PM
  
  The EMOJI’s do not work HERE…………I get it!!!
  YOU ARE SO WELCOME LOVELY HOSTESS……………XX
Katie Clooney
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 10:46 AM

Your pics are gorgeous. I almost felt like I was right there with you!!! My favorite was the pic that you pointed out for Mindy. You looked stunning, btw! Have a fabulous week, Contessa.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 4:08 PM
  
  That was ONE Gorgeous display of COLOR!!!!!!!!
  Check out MINDYROSENBERGDESIGN on instagram………….then you WILL SEE why it reminded me of HER!
  Are those DOGS BEHAVING?
  XX
Lisa
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 9:52 AM

Oh my GOODNESS, Elizabeth, you saw more than I did! It was so unbearably hot in the afternoon I didn’t have the strength to go looking at things, but I did have the strength to stay near an air-conditioned bar on the premises! I thoroughly enjoyed seeing your photos, but NOT AS MUCH as I enjoyed seeing you in London. xxx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 4:06 PM
  
  WELL………….THAT SUITS ME JUST FINE!
  I am sporting MY RING TODAY!
  ALL MY MOTHER’s CARE GIVERS were having a LUSTING MOMENT!
  IT entertain me all the way home with it’s SHINE and LIGHT!
  MANY THANKS……..XX
Loreen
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 9:35 AM

Thank you! Thank you for sharing all of your glorious pictures! What inspiration! My back is already sore thinking about the work I will do in my garden today! My favorite was the pink flowers overflowing the white sculpture…not sure what is supposed to be. And also the peonies and I could just smell the beautiful roses…didn’t know they could be planted so close together…
Have a wonderful day Elizabeth!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 4:03 PM
  
  NO,
  they are not planted just close together for DISPLAY!!!!!!!
  That sculpture looks like foam………colored foam!Those are individual flowers probably inserted into Styrofoam.THINK Of THE TIME THAT TOOK!!!!!!!
  XX
Our French Oasis
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 9:19 AM

I was glued to it on television every evening. Loved James Basson’s garden, having been to Malta many times, this was such a clever representation of an old quarry. Love the insect hotel, certainly did not see that or that chic blue chesterfield sofa, wow, I would love that in my garden! You are right in that the Royal Hospital in Chelsea is for veterans, however it is not actually a hospital, it is a retirement home and a nursing home for elderly servicemen as opposed to an actual hospital. Such beautiful gardens and to think that it is in the heart of London and Chelsea Flower Show only takes up a small part of the grounds! So glad you had such a great time, love looking at all the photos, now I am going to see if Roddy can copy that insect hotel and make it for me!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 3:59 PM
  
  Can YOU hear me laughing!!!!!!
  WHAT INSECT HOTEL…………YOU are the second person to mention that!I went back through and have figured it out!Of course you saw it on TV and they EXPLAINED I would imagine……?
  The ROUND wooden sculpture???IS that it?
  Fill me in someone!!!!!!
  XX
Catherine
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 9:12 AM

*won over the years – this self correcting drives me mad!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 3:54 PM
  
  I GET IT………..DONOT WORRY.
  I wish they would show The Chelsea Flower Show on TV over HERE!I bet they do I just do not know how to find it…………I think I told you we have 6 “PUSHY BUTTONS” as I call them CONTROL Things for the TV and STEREO!!If MY LIFE depended upon it I couldn’t find a station……..or have the VOLUME UP correctly!
  XX
Catherine
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 9:11 AM

A beautiful tour, thank you Contessa – I watched a lot of it on the tv in the evenings and really enjoyed it – I love the face sculpture; beautiful and yes, the little folly is delightful. The Gold Winner you show here (he has one so many over the years) isn’t a favourite.
You, as they say, are Absolutely Fabulous 🙂
Dawn
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 8:57 AM

Thank you for all the beautiful photos. The lamps on the carriage are stunning. I’ve always wanted to go to this flower show. I finally made it to Chatsworth House in England in April – 1000+ acres of beauty outside. I’ve wanted to visit this place for decades! I’ve been told they also have amazing flower shows in June.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 1:15 PM
  
  CHATSWORTH……………well that is on MY TO DO!I was told it is TOO far out…..or I would have TAXIED to it!!!!!
  Send me a couple of your photos!I would LOVE THAT!!!!!!!!!
  YOU know I copied HER up TOP home page under LA CONTESSA……see me as The DUCHESS of DEVONSHIRE!!!!Feeding my chickens!XX
  My email………iolacontessa@gmail.com
Libby
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 7:55 AM

Gives one incentive! They must not have deer wandering around.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 1:11 PM
  
  NOT HERE but they DO have DEER in the countryside………I ASKED!XX
Lillian Plummer
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 7:36 AM

Where were all the smart, summery, flowery dressed visitors? Standards sure have dropped, although you Contessa, sparkled. So beautifully dressed for a splendid Occassion. Enjoyed all your pics, thank you for taking the time and effort to think of us.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 1:10 PM
  
  We were NOT there when the CREAM of the CROP was invited…….it was the DAY for the mere MORTALS…….Village FOLKS!I think the day before you would have seen a better OUTFIT!!!
  Again in DEFENSE they are use to the rain and cold SO black and rain weather clothing is a habit.
  XX
Anita Rivera
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 7:32 AM

Sheer joy and opulence of nature’s bounty. YOU are splendid, Contessa!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 1:07 PM
  
  ARE you coming OUT WEST this YEAR?YOU are OVERDUE for a VISIST!!!!!!!!XX
Lisa White
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 6:08 AM

WOW! That was quite a tour and the flowers really put on a show. I will have to walk through it again and again with my trusty fingers and keyboard. Thank you for taking us along and doing the hard work of walking, walking and walking while documenting the colorful wonders displayed in this show. My mother collects David Austen roses and they are not climbing and in full bloom in her garden. Love an English Rose….but…you were our American Rose and were Best in Show!!!! What was the plant that looked like strawberries stuck on a long stem?
- Ellie's friend from Canada
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 9:51 PM
  
  I think the plants that looked like strawberries stuck on a long stem were primulas. They have primula-like leaves!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 1:06 PM
  
  LIsa,
  Can you count from the top down the photos for me………….and tell which PHOTO you are referring too.I did not see anything that looked like strawberries………..
  THANK YOU………..always SO complimentary!!!!
  XX
Nita Wright
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 4:11 AM

That was fun!!! May need to see those photos many times 🙂 don’t want to miss a thing!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 1:04 PM
  
  I can send YOU some other ones…………..XX
Jacqueline
· Reply

June 12, 2017 at 12:58 AM

Hi Elizabeth ….. here’s a history lesson !!! … The Royal Hospital Chelsea is the home of the iconic Chelsea Pensioners, who are all retired soldiers of the British Army. Since 1692 they have offered care and comradeship for veterans in recognition of their loyal service to the Nation. I’m not sure why the Queen’s coach was there …. I think it was just part of a display.
I am guilty of wearing black ….. if you look at all of the models and designers when off-duty at any Fashion Week, they all wear black … that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it !!! I didn’t like the winning garden … I thought it was very stark but I think they all have to try and do something different every year to keep it fresh and interesting. It is a wonderful show and very inspirational. I’m so pleased that you got to see it. XXXX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 1:04 PM
  
  THANK YOU!
  SO, are you telling me you were a MODEL a fews years ago???
  I would believe that!
  I know BLACK is EASY and FLATTERING……..NOT that YOU have anything to worry about!
  Just put a colored scarf on and think of ME the next time you run out that door!!!!!!!!XX
Rae Ecklund
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 9:56 PM

You really nailed the ‘costume’!!! That dress/coat is just beautiful Loved the smart shoes that worked so well.

Thank you for sharing the stunning gardens art at Chelsea. Such great photography!
Hoping you are doing well and came home inspired and psyched enough to create more magic in your gardens and style in general..

Hoping you can recover enough for lunch soon.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 13, 2017 at 1:01 PM
  
  YES!
  LETS DO IT!!!!!!
  XX
Sandra Sallin
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 9:51 PM

Where to start. I guess start with you. You’re Absolutely Fabulous. Then I loved the flowers themselves. Those tulips, roses, peonys. I saw a special about the show and I loved the veggies. Loved the potatoes. Look at how neatly they were placed. I think the flowers themselves blew me away. And the topper was you.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:38 PM
  
  YOU are ALWAYS SO KIND TO ME…………………don’t you wonder how long it took to place those potatoes?!!!
  LUNCH was FUN TODAY…………we need to do that MORE OFTEN!
  XX
Marilee Gramith
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 9:26 PM

Thank you so much for sharing it all with us. It was less intimidatinglu grand than I’d expected. Gardens should always feel welcoming and approachable. You certainly helped with creating that vibe. Your photos are beauteous!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:36 PM
  
  Nothing to be intimidated about it’s a SHOW or the feeling is more FAIR LIKE…………..
  HAPPY YOU ENJOYED THE PHOTOS!
  XX
Ellie's friend from Canada
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 8:34 PM

I did a bit of online research. Apparently the rose Absolutely Fabulous was named that in the U.K.
but in the States (and Canada) it is Julia Child. I am sceptical, however, because your photo of Absolutely Fabulous
doesn’t look the same (to me at least) as Julia Child.

Oh and I should mention that my absolute favourite would be any of the David Austin roses. I am sure Ellie was looking on your adventure with approval. She, too, loved David Austin roses! My new Austin Strawberry Hill is looking very happy, indeed!
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 10:06 AM
  
  It is Julia Child!! I have one and I recognized it right away!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:34 PM
  
  I would say it is JULIA CHILDS as WELL from my photo now that you mention it but why do they change the names!!!!!!!!
  I DONOT LIKE THAT!!!!!!
  XX
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    June 12, 2017 at 5:50 PM
    
    They didn’t exactly change the name. When it came to the US Dani (who owns Rose Story Farm) persuaded the David Austin people (I think it is David Austin) to name it Julia after their friend! So in the US it is Julia Child!
    
    It is one of the best roses ever!
Parnassus
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 7:02 PM

Hello Contessa, Another blogger was disappointed in this year’s flower show–I guess that there was more in the past, but despite all, you have found a lot to marvel at–sometimes the visitrs and non-floral displays are the more spectacular.
–Jim
- Ellie's friend from Canada
  · Reply
  
  June 11, 2017 at 7:25 PM
  
  It is really strange but when I click on “Parnassus” I get a phishing warning screen (twice). I like to visit you site occasionally!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:32 PM
  
  Jim, I too was expecting MORE………..but what I saw was BEAUTIFUL.
Shireen
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 5:05 PM

Oh Elizabeth! This post is gorgeous! So happy you were able to go. My favorite is the picture of the flowers flowing out of the structure. All of the pictures are so inspiring! And you were a beautiful flower in the garden!
Have you ever seen the movie Greenfingers (2000) with Clive Owen? It is loosely based on a true story about the award-winning prisoners of HMP Leyhill, a minimum-security prison in the Cotswolds, England – they enter the Hampton Court Flower Show…I won’t tell you the ending if you plan to watch!
xoxo Shireen
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:31 PM
  
  I think I DID!
  But will watch it AGAIN…………..NETFLICKS here I come!
  XX
Mrs. Rose
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 3:28 PM

Spectacular!!! Thank you for taking all of these gorgeous photos so that I, too, could see the beauty at the show. I am thrilled you were able to go and you have inspired me to plan a trip there as well.
I DID love the flower arrangement you pointed out.
Thank you for taking the time to upload all of these images. xoxo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:28 PM
  
  YOU MUST GO……..and see a few other GARDENS as well……………I SHALL GIVE YOU A LIST!
  SAW MARY ANN today for lunch!!!!!!YOU were mentioned a few times!!!!!IT is a small small world………XO
D. A. Wolf
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 3:17 PM

WOW WOW WOW. Amazing! Thank you for sharing these marvels with us.

BREATHTAKING.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:26 PM
  
  YOU ARE SO WELCOME!
  XX
Athena at Minerva's Garden
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 3:12 PM

I loved this post you did from the Chelsea show! Your outfit was perfect for that day! I have a wonderful garden as well, so I enjoyed seeing all your flower photos. The roses are my favorites, and I’m not sure I can pick just one! Take care!
Athena from Camas, Washington
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:25 PM
  
  ENJOY THAT GARDEN Of YOURS!I should be outside enjoying mine instead of inside typing away………..we have sun and it’s a beautiful day!
  XX
D.A. Squires
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 1:13 PM

FLOWERBOMB!!! (This has to be the perfect name for perfume 🙂 Adored the tour… I could almost smell the roses and peonies… YOU should have won THE BEST DRESSED award… no hats, no flower embellishments, black attire??? How could this be? Someone should have asked for your photo sitting inside the carriage (Queen-Contessa–royal is royal.) And the castle-fit-for-a-princess grandchild was swoon worthy… now nothing else will compare! Such a lovely way to spend part of a Sunday afternoon… merci!!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:24 PM
  
  YOU are SO WELCOME!!!!
  I do believe there is a FLOWERBOMB Perfume out NOW!!!!!I think I even like the SMELL……..XX
Kathy L
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 1:03 PM

So that’s what the Chelsea Flower Show is all about – wonderful – I felt like I was there thanks to your blog. I love the photos of you in the tent enveloped in roses. Peonies speak to me too – every year I plan to plant some, but it never happens. I liked the “dollhouse” more than the quarry garden.

I still remember all the black clothing in London when I was there a couple of decades ago. Not much make-up either as I recall.

My son moved to Silicon Valley this weekend. I’ll keep an eye on your son if he’s on the Cape again, if you’ll keep an eye on mine!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:22 PM
  
  Mine is not back EAST this summer………another project here!
  Yours is always welcome here if he wants some Italian food!
  LET HIM KNOW!
  XX
Taste of France
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 12:57 PM

Picking a favorite here is like saying which kid you love best. Impossible.
However, I highly admire your chic outfits. You are such an inspiration. And thank you so much for the floral eye candy. Just what I needed.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:21 PM
  
  I have decided I fell down the rabbit hole after Bell Bottoms and GO-GO boots and than took a wrong turn……………..XX
Merisi in Vienna
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 12:56 PM

So glad for you that you finally made it there for the flower show! What a meraviglia it must have been to see all this in person!
So many beautiful things to admire, from the ones you already mentioned to the tree peony next to the giant antique stone Champagne cooler, the flower waterfall in shades of pink and lilac and the insect hotel!
And the most beautiful flower of them all, stylish YOU! I already LOVED the dress when I spotted that you were wearing it with Irish-butter-yellow trousers. I am swooning.
Summery greetings from Vienna,
Merisi
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:19 PM
  
  TALK ABOUT AN EYE FOR DETAIL…………………….YOU GET THE PRIZE!
  XX
Penelope Bianchi
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 12:51 PM

Thank you so much! Next best thing to being there; is seeing it all through your impeccable EYE!!!
Brilliant!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:18 PM
  
  THANK YOU!
  XX
  PS. How was THE MOVIE?
ellie's friend from Canada
· Reply

June 11, 2017 at 12:14 PM

Thank you so much for the tour of Chelsea. I felt just I like I was there with you. It must be hard to pick a favourite. I myself love the pale pink peony. And the Absolutely Fabulous rose. About the Gold Medal Winner? Controversial idea. I didn’t realize duplicating a quarry would be so in vogue. I did this with some sandstone boulders in my garden in a shady spot but it looked more random, not already quarried formal blocks like at Chelsea. I don’t think I’m fond of that quarry. (Mine you would hardly notice). I have to say I love the arches. And it is hard to believe that only you were wearing a hat! Not even any fascinators??? What is England coming to? thanks again! Delightful!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  June 12, 2017 at 4:17 PM
  
  NO FASCINATORS!!!!!!!
  AGAIN it was early in the day but HOT!
  XX