THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, January 4, 1995 TAG: 9412310110
SECTION: ISLE OF WIGHT CITIZEN PAGE: 03 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Close-Up
SOURCE: Jody R. Snider
DATELINE: SMITHFIELD LENGTH: Medium: 57 lines
Every December for the past six years, florist Edwin Little has held a free Christmas workshop at his flower shop in Smithfield.
The two-hour session draws about 20 students each year, and each student leaves with a handmade Christmas wreath and the joy of having made something themselves.
In the workshop, Little uses many of Smithfield's native greenery such as English boxwood, pine, cedar and holly.
Although Little, 43, loves to use traditional pieces during the holiday season, those who work with him in designing pieces said he also loves to use exotic flowers to make pieces year 'round.
Such flowers and plants as ginger and bird of paradise make their way into many of Little's arrangements.
And those who work with him said he is known for the details in his work.
Name: Edwin F. ``Erwin'' Little.
What brought you to Isle of Wight? I'm a native.
Hometown: Smithfield.
Birthdate: Jan. 3, 1951.
Occupation: Florist.
Marital Status: Single.
Favorite play: ``Phantom of the Opera.''
Favorite magazines: ``Southern Living'' and ``Flowers.''
A book you wish everyone would read, why? The Bible. It's a guide for daily living.
Favorite bar or restaurant: Smithfield Station and Beret's in Williamsburg.
Favorite food and drink: Seafood and ice water with lemon.
Few people know . . . that I'm a licensed funeral director and embalmer.
What's the best thing about yourself? I'm easy going.
Worst habit: I'm a perfectionist.
First thing in the morning: Read the newspaper.
Pets: None.
Hobbies: Fishing and working out.
Ideal vacation: Hawaii.
Pet peeve: Tardiness.
First job: Bag boy and stock person.
Worst job: None. You learn from every job you do.
What achievements are you most proud of? Opening my own business and serving as president of Teleflora Virginia Unit 804.
What would you like on your epitaph? ``He was a good and faithful servant.'' ILLUSTRATION: Photo by JODY SNIDER
by CNB