Friends of the Coastal Gardens is accepting preorders for the first ornament in its new collectible series, a three-dimensional metal keepsake depicting the “Red Velvet” camellia. Made by the same artisans who create the official White House holiday ornaments, it features red blooms, green foliage and gold accents and comes in a black felt-lined gift box. Proceeds support the nonprofit’s work on behalf of the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens.

The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens is home to one of the most diverse and unique camellia collections in North America, making the bloom a fitting choice for this year’s ornament. Sales will help Friends of the Coastal Gardens continue its mission of supporting the Gardens through fundraising, volunteer engagement and community outreach. 

“We chose the camellia for this year’s commemorative ornament because it represents something truly special about the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens,” said Christy Sherman, President of Friends of the Coastal Gardens. “With the International Camellia Society bringing visitors from around the world to Savannah in 2027 and our Gardens working toward the prestigious International Camellia Garden of Excellence designation, this is an exciting time to celebrate our remarkable camellia collection. We wanted to create a keepsake that captures the beauty of one of the South’s most beloved flowers and celebrates the growing recognition of our Gardens.”

The collectible ornament is available for preorder for $24.95 for nonmembers and $20 for Friends of the Coastal Gardens members. Pickup dates and times will be announced, and shipping is available for an additional $10. The keepsake makes a unique holiday gift for gardeners and