2026 Speakers

BARBARA ADKINS 

Barbara is an Alabama antiques dealer, designer, preservationist and gardener.  Former President of the Alabama Trust for Historic Preservation and now on its emeritus board and currently serve on the Board of Directors of the Southern Garden History Society.  
Fifth generation steward and owner of the Chancellor House and Farm in central Alabama, my book is about the house's moody interiors, the gardens, the summerhouse and potting shed, surrounding grounds and outbuildings.  It specifically speaks to using antiques in the design of living spaces (including the garden) in relevant and soulful ways.  

JEFF ALLEN

Jeff Allen Lanscape Architecture

As Founding Principal of JALA, Jeff Allen Landscape Architecture, Jeff and his associates practice the fine art of landscape architecture. The firm designs elegant, comfortable outdoor spaces distinguished by refined detailing, enduring craftsmanship, and a deep respect for traditional precedents. Our office manages historic renovations and new construction projects.    
To learn more, please visit our website www.jalallc.com/ or our Instagram Page https://www.instagram.com/jalagardens/

DR. ALLAN ARMITAGE

Dr. Allan Armitage is a well known writer, speaker, and horticulturist. Born and raised in Quebec and Ontario, he later lived in East Lansing, MI and now resides in Athens, GA. He has worked with landscape plants and greenhouse crops in the North and South, and travels the world speaking and sharing his passion for plants. Armitage holds his B.Sc from McGill University in Montreal, his M.Sc. from University of Guelph, and his Ph.D. from Michigan State University.

Allan has written 17 books, countless academic papers and hundreds of articles for both professional and weekend gardeners alike; including a monthly column in the national greenhouse publication, Greenhouse Grower for over 40 years.

HUNTER CHARBONNET

Camellia Expert

Covington, Louisiana

RYAN COLE

Ryan Cole is a Landscape Architect, designing residental spaces with a strong focus on aesthetics. For over three decades Ryan has crafted timeless landscapes that marry classical elegance with the romance of the Southern garden. From intimate, walled courtyards in New Orleans to sweeping Texas ranches, his work is entirely bespoke-rooted in history, attuned to place, and designed to endure. Known for his artistry, horticultural expertise, and unerring sense of proportion, Cole transforms every commission into a living masterpiece. Ryan will share his approach at design during a Friday afternoon workshop- The Garden's Secret Language: Five Design Elements That Elevate Style. Attendees will see him again on Saturday as we take a closer look at the plants he selects to create structure and form in a formal, European inspired garden. We are delighted to have Ryan join the program and share his incredible design talents! 

WILL HUNT LEWIS

Hunt and Bloom

Will Hunt Lewis has enjoyed an illustrious career in the world of home furnishings for nearly 25 years. He debuted his first award-winning business, Stems, twenty years ago in the enchanting Mississippi Delta, where he seamlessly oversaw every facet of the home furnishings, gift, and full-service floral and event studio, creating an immersive experience for his discerning clientele.

With boundless expertise and an unyielding passion for design, Hunt & Bloom is Will Hunt’s next venture that unites his unique background with a deep appreciation for the transformative power of curated home furnishings.

LEE ROUSE 

Lee Rouse is a dedicated, licensed arboriculture and horticulture professional with extensive experience serving commercial, residential, and construction clients. His expertise includes tree care, plant propagation, and educational programming, supported by state and international certifications.

For seven years, Lee worked as a Horticulture Extension Agent across multiple Louisiana parishes. He developed research-based educational programs for school and community gardens, local nonprofits, and Louisiana Master Gardeners through classes, demonstration plots, workshops, and field collaborations.

As Head Propagation Coordinator, Lee managed crop production, planting schedules, greenhouse sanitation, and plant health experiments to optimize yields. As a Plant Nursery Supervisor, he identified and treated plant pests, assisted customers with plant selection, and supported landscape design.