14. Society of the Cincinnati Eagle insignia
owned by Richard Clough Anderson
Goodness Gracious Florals
Lisa Ruf
2026 installation
Second Floor - French Drawing Room
The Inspiration
The Society of the Cincinnati’s medal, in the shape of an American bald eagle, was designed by Pierre L’Enfant in 1783 and made in gold by various craftsmen, including Jeremiah Andrews, who made this example about 1784-1791.
The Flowers
Recipe: Beargrass, orchids, moss, other seasonal flowers, greenery
Florist’s inspiration: The main inspiration for this floral piece was both the color and form of the pin. The sweeping wings of the eagle, the softness of the ribbon and the color gold led my interpretation. Bold, beautiful and a feeling of majesty intensified feelings of patriotism.
THE DESIGNER
Lisa Ruf
Goodness Gracious Florals
Lisa Ruf is a native Washingtonian who views floral design as her encore career. After a successful stint in foreign military sales,and IT, she started her floral business as a creative outlet while raising her twin boys.
In 2003, Lisa shared her passion for flowers by designing weddings and parties for friends and work colleagues, which grew into a successful boutique floral studio. She values collaboration above competition and also freelances for colleagues throughout the country and abroad.
A life-long learner, Lisa has studied under Christian Tortu, Gregor Lersch, Holly Chapple, Françoise Weeks, and other notables. Most recently she studied under Tomas De Bruyne in Brugge, Belguim, where Lisa received her European Masters Certification. Her international experience is a strong influence in her floral designs.
Lisa continues to learn, grow, and perfect her craft, designing for both Washington's old guard and avant-garde. Her tagline, "Goodness Gracious Gorgeous" reflects her attention to detail and commitment to creating one-of-a-kind experiences for her clients.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY
Mary Bell Photography
Mary Bell is a hybrid, documentary wedding and portrait photographer based in Maryland and working throughout the mid-atlantic. Dedicated to ensuring her clients feel like themselves, her work is intuitive, heart-felt and honest. She’s been an artist her entire life and has never wanted to be anything else.
When she isn’t at a wedding or in her studio in Annapolis, Mary can be found hiking and traveling out west, wandering used bookstores, getting inspired by art books and museums and watching her husband race vintage cars.
