OK y’all! John Mark Sharpe demos florals, bow-making at Memphis Fling

Instagram star John Mark Sharpe charmed us, smiling and telling stories about his beloved grandma while he worked his magic with flowers.… Read More

The post OK y’all! John Mark Sharpe demos florals, bow-making at Memphis Fling appeared first on Digging.

July 04, 2025

A buzz began when the Memphis Fling buses arrived at the Hausman flower field on Day 3 of the Fling. Instagram star and floral artist John Mark Sharpe was on hand for a flower-arranging demo. A crowd swiftly gathered around him.

As John Mark started building an arrangement and explaining his process, I understood how he’s earned so many online fans. He’s utterly charming, smiling and telling adorable stories about his dearly departed Mississippi grandma while he works his magic with flowers.

John Mark starts his Instagram videos with “OK, y’all,” and his lilting Southern drawl added to the charm of his demo. He worked quickly, using a small knife to strip leaves from long stems and inserting them into a footed vase.

A lazy Susan on an upside-down bucket was his work stand, allowing him to spin the vase and examine it from all sides. A good tip!

As he shared boyhood tales of decorating church with his beloved grandma, a gorgeous floral arrangement came to life.

Next he showed us how to make one of his trademark gigantic bows. Enormous fabric bows are not a thing in Austin — at least not in my circle — so I was a little mystified by his enthusiasm for them. Apparently it’s a Memphis thing!

Whether talking flowers or bows, John Mark is a natural in front of a crowd — and in front of a camera for his Instagram followers. I could see this guy getting his own HGTV show one day. Until then, the brides and floral patrons of Memphis enjoy his decorating talent and local shop.

Up next: Upcycled art and shady outdoor living in the McClain Garden. For a look back at the tree-celebrating, sculptural Manugian garden, click here.

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Digging Deeper

My new book, Gardens of Texas: Visions of Resilience from the Lone Star State, comes out October 14! It’s available for pre-order now on Amazon and other online book sellers. If you think you’d like to read it or give it as a holiday gift, please consider pre-ordering. (I’m happy to sign pre-ordered copies at my book events!) Early orders make a big difference in helping new books get noticed. More info about Gardens of Texas here — and thank you for your support!

Come see me on tour! I’ll be speaking and hosting book events across Texas this fall and into next spring to celebrate the release of Gardens of Texas. Join me to learn, get inspired, and say hello!

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All material © 2025 by Pam Penick for Digging. Unauthorized reproduction prohibited.

The post OK y’all! John Mark Sharpe demos florals, bow-making at Memphis Fling appeared first on Digging.

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