Elevate: AIFD National Symposium 2026 Orlando | July 2–5, 2026 There is a great deal happening behind the scenes as we prepare for Elevate, the 2026 AIFD National Symposium in Orlando and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead. Planning is well underway, and…
Spring is a season of renewal. In nature, it’s when dormant seeds begin to push through the soil and the promise of what’s ahead becomes visible. Within AIFD®, spring carries that same energy. It’s a time when we gather, reflect, and take important steps that…
Darcie Garcia AIFD Attending SAF Next Gen LIVE! 2026 was a first for me, and from the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed. The atmosphere was vibrant, full of fresh energy, curiosity, and momentum. Surrounded by so many professionals under 45, I was reminded that the future…
By Alan Thompson As I think of AIFD History, I think of the people who led me to AIFD! Mary Lee Evans AIFD from Tulsa, Oklahoma, was an instant friend who took me under her wing and introduced me to everyone! Mary Lee was fearless…
As Symposium season approaches, the AIFD Southern Chapter is excited to celebrate the achievements, leadership, and educational growth happening throughout our floral community. From recognizing our 2026 Inspire & Empower Scholarship recipient to announcing our newly elected board, honoring outstanding chapter members, and gathering in…
I hope everyone is as excited as I am about our National Symposium, Elevate in Orlando, Florida!! Vonda LaFever AIFD and Randy Wooten AIFD have put their heart and soul, blood, sweat and tears and three years of their lives getting us ready to be…
Elevate Symposium Scholarship North Central Chapter Brittany Nichole is the Owner and Principal Floral Designer of Dressed in Details, where she creates floral designs rooted in meaningful storytelling and intentional artistry. Her work is known for transforming flowers into experiences that celebrate life’s most important…
There’s a natural rhythm to this time of year—busy schedules, full calendars, and a steady stream of events, deadlines, and commitments. It’s easy to get caught up in the pace of it all, focusing on what’s next, what’s due, and what needs our attention. But…
Meet 4 winners of scholarships for the Elevate Symposium! Kathy Rodocker AIFD AAMF AMF Kathy is a passionate competitor and lifelong learner who has trained at design schools across the U.S. An accomplished designer, she completed the Arkansas Master Florist program in 2001, is a…
The American Institute of Floral Designers® (AIFD®) proudly recognizes the dedication of its most committed members through the Laureate designation. Members with 21+ years of membership who have attended at least ten (10) National Symposia are eligible to apply. This honor celebrates long-term commitment to…
By Ken Senter AIFD CFD In the summer of 1968, a 26-year-old florist from Phoenix, Arizona, named Phil Rulloda and a close friend of his, Kenny Watanabe, jumped into Phil’s Volkswagen Beetle and drove across the hot Arizona desert to attend the first-ever AIFD Symposium…
The AIFD Southern Chapter continues to celebrate a season of education, collaboration, and professional growth within our floral community. From the inspiring programs and competitions at Gather 2026 to the continued success of the David Shover AIFD Mentorship Program, our chapter remains committed to supporting…
