Questions are being raised as to why former White House Head Florist Laura Dowling left her post in February, with some reports suggesting a clash between Dowling and the First Lady.

White House Florist Laura Dowling Leaves Position

Dowling, who was personally hired by First Lady Michelle Obama in 2009, left the prestigious job on Feb. 13, one day before Valentine’s Day, and, unlike other White House staff departures, no announcement was made at the time of her departure.

Since the news has been uncovered by the media, both the Office of the First Lady and Dowling have released statements claiming that Dowling simply felt it was time to leave her position.

“As Chief Florist, Laura Dowling and her team treated guests of the White House to their beautiful floral arrangements. Ms. Dowling’s creations were always lively and colorful, reflecting not only the season but the unique and historic rooms which they graced. No two arrangements were ever the same and each one left guests with a lasting impression of the elegance and history of the People’s House. We are grateful for her contribution over the years and wish her well,” reads the statement from the office of the First Lady.

Dowling’s own statement, issued through her lawyers at Sidley Austin, echoed the official White House remarks and also failed to mention any reason as to why Dowling had decided to leave her post.

“After almost 6 years as Chief Floral Designer at the White House, I have resigned in order to pursue exciting new opportunities and explore my passion for floral artistry and design. Over the next few weeks and months, I’ll be launching a new platform for my work as an author, speaker, instructor and design consultant that builds on the creative ideas and partnerships I’ve formed during my tenure there. It’s been such an honor to work at the White House and I will always be grateful for this incredible opportunity,” Dowling said in her statement.

Laura Dowling Escorted From The Building?

The secretive nature of Dowling’s resignation has raised more than a few eyebrows. Adding fuel to the fire, the Washington Post claimed that a source revealed Dowling was escorted from the White House on Friday, Feb. 13, suggesting some kind of conflict.

According to Kate Andersen Brower, who is writing a book about the innerworkings of the White House, it is the First Lady who oversees the White House Florist. Brower also theorized that Obama most likely had a hand in the decision for Dowling to leave.

Reports are now alleging that Obama’s “modern” taste clashed with Dowling’s “French” style.

Article by Olivia Truffaut-Wong

Olivia Truffaut-Wong was born and raised in Berkeley, California, where she developed her love of all things entertainment. After moving to New York City to earn her degree in Film Studies, she stayed on the East Coast to follow her passion and become an entertainment writer. She lives on a diet of television, movies and food.