Flower shop targeted by arsonist aims to make unforgettable Oscar Sunday

ByAmanda Palacios

Tuesday, February 25, 2025 6:47PM

Flower shop hit by arsonist helps transform theater for Oscars

As the 2025 Oscars approaches, Mark's Garden in Sherman Oaks, California is gearing up to help create elaborate floral arrangements for the event.

LOS ANGELES -- Crews have already started dressing up the Dolby Theatre, where just days from now, the 2025 Oscar winners will be handed their awards.

As Hollywood's biggest night approaches, Mark's Garden in Sherman Oaks, California is gearing up to help create elaborate floral arrangements for the event.

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"It's like Hollywood's biggest night, so it's always an honor to be included in whatever way," said Michael Uncapher, owner and creative director of Mark's Garden. "Just to be there, to see the effects of your work on TV, it's really great to see."

For years, Uncapher has been transforming venues with his artful floral designs. From the Dolby Theatre to the Golden Globes and the Oscars, the local flower shop has been creating breathtaking arrangements for Hollywood's biggest nights.

"There's a lead set designer for the Oscars and really it comes from their vision," he said. "There's specific parameters that you kind of have to work with. Last year we focused on dressing rooms and artist entrance and things like that. So last year was very sculptural and almost pave floral elements."

Last year, a stunning display of hundreds of red roses framed the artist entrance. While this year's arrangements remains a well-kept secret, Uncapher says it will be nothing short of spectacular.

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This work comes as Mark's Garden continues to overcome a huge challenge. Two years ago, the shop was targeted by an arsonist. But despite that setback, the business has continued to thrive.

"They burnt the shop down and we've really been rebuilding since that time," said Uncapher,. "With permits and processing it just takes time to even break ground."

Although construction of the shop won't be completed until may, the owner remains determined to make Oscar Sunday an unforgettable sight to see.

"We've been really finding things to make it all work," he said. "We're kind of the final layer of the whole project which brings the element to life and makes it more of a diverse feeling."

As the Academy Awards countdown continues, Uncapher and his team will be working tirelessly behind the scenes starting Wednesday, ensuring every detail is perfect for the big day.