Blue Magnolias for Coach Ken

Handcrafted in Love, Grief, and Celebration

In honor of Coach Ken Dicesare, we spent the past month handcrafting over four hundred Blue Magnolias—a tribute as unique and deeply rooted as the legacy he leaves behind. Each flower was made with care and intention: nine petals, individually cut by hand, shaped and assembled onto natural stems using floral wire and tape. No two blooms are exactly alike—each one reflects the uniqueness of a life touched by Coach Ken.

Tied to every flower is a small white tag, handwritten with the words: “In memory of Coach Ken.” Writing those words, over and over, and shaping each bloom became more than a task—it became a way of grieving. Through repetition, reflection, and creation, one finds a quiet place to process loss and celebrate the life of someone who gracefully gave so much.

This was not merely handcrafted floral art—it was a quiet act of remembrance. In each fold and petal, sorrow softened into grace, and through the rhythm of our hands, grief found its bloom.

At the center of the display stands a life-size, high-resolution portrait of Coach Ken, frozen in time with his bright smile, just as he was before every practice and meet—ready to blow his whistle and guide the Barracudas with joy, strength, and unwavering belief.

This is our way of saying thank you. For the lessons, the wins, the laughter, and most of all—the heart. Coach Ken, you will always be part of our lane.

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ALine Architecture is a full-service architecture and interior design firm based in Alexandria, VA. Home