article_snippet: Laura Dowling spent six years as head florist for the Obamas before quitting last month amid rumors of a rift with the First Lady.
article_snippet: Obama office released a belated statement praising The flamboyant floral designer whose sudden departure from the White House is blooming into a political intrigue's 'lively and colorful' arrangements - while high-powered lawyers hired by Laura Dowling insisted Laura Dowling had resigned to take on 'exciting new opportunities'.
article_snippet: Laura Dowling had been chief florist to the Obamas for six years .
article_snippet: As florist, Laura Dowling was close to Michelle Obama, who is in charge of the East Wing .
article_snippet: Laura Dowling muted departure was in stark contrast to tributes afforded to other departing White House fixtures such as the Obamas' personal chef, Sam Kass, who was praised for his 'extraordinary legacy' when his left last December.
article_snippet: Laura Dowling celebrated predecessor, Nancy Clarke, lasted more than 30 years as chief florist, serving six presidential administrations.
article_snippet: Laura Dowling took over the top job in 2009 after competing against several leading designers to create a lavish arrangement for a mock state dinner.
article_snippet: Laura Dowling website promises arrangements that transcend 'fads and trends', however rival florists who continue to provide bouquets to the White House told The Washington Post Laura Dowling 'fussy style' fell out of favor with Mrs Obama.
article_snippet: Laura Dowling arrangements were found in the formal parts of the White House .
article_snippet: It wasn't until six weeks later that Mrs Obama office issued an official statement to say: 'As chief florist, Laura Dowling and Laura Dowling team treated guests of the White House to guests of the White House beautiful floral arrangements. '
article_snippet: Mrs Obama's office released a statement on Tuesday which praised the work of florist Laura Dowling who had unexpectedly departed Laura Dowling post more than a month before .
article_snippet: Laura Dowling, who had overseen flower decorations at the White House for six years, is now spending time at home in Alexandria, Virginia (right) and has retained lawyers.
article_snippet: After almost six 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,' Laura Dowling said. '
highlights_snippet: Laura Dowling was head florist for the Obamas until last month when Laura Dowling was taken out of the East Wing by security .
  