Submitted by Cathleen Lanigan
I started working for Ralph Giordano, AIFD, FSMD, this past Mother’s Day. After a few months of working with Ralph, he generously offered me the opportunity to attend the FSFA Centennial Celebration. 100 years, that’s a big deal! When he showed me the planned presentations, I was excited knowing I was going to gain a wealth of knowledge. What I wasn’t expecting was learning so much more from networking and having open conversations with others in the industry. Whether it be seasoned florist or vendors, everyone I spoke to taught me some sort of tip or trick of the trade.
The presentations were absolutely incredible. Personally, Jenny Thomasson, AIFD & Jacob McCall, AIFD, FSMD, really inspired me. Their creativity and the pieces of art that they created blew me away. When Jacob gave his opening bouquet to an attendee in the front row, it made me want to sit in the front row next year, just in case! It was beautiful and came so naturally to him. What inspired me was the passion he had for his work. Hearing his story about the mentorship he has with Deborah De La Flor, AIFD and Gus De La Flor, AAF melted my heart. Everyone is so willing to pass on their knowledge to others. It made for a very welcoming atmosphere.
I have never in my life seen bridal bouquets as unique as what Jenny created. The armatures were astonishing! Being brand new to the industry, I’ve been taught all the technical ways to make arrangements. I had no idea the amount of creativity and individuality that could be put into an arrangement. Jenny showed me ways I could incorporate different techniques in pieces I make. Other attendees (who have much more experience than I do) were blown away as well and asked many questions. Jenny was so generous in all her answers, and it made me more comfortable asking questions. What was most encouraging to me was the pride all over her face when the audience would cheer.
My first night at the convention was incredibly nerve wracking. I went in thinking, “These are business owners. These are seasoned florist. These people really know what they’re doing. I have no business being here.” But every person Ralph introduced me to welcomed me with open arms. I met Andrew Stinson, AIFD, CFD, early on in the evening. A group of us sat and had drinks and dinner together. During this time, Andrew flooded me with knowledge. He showed me tutorial videos he has made, told me about freelancing, taught me about the industry as a whole. I was surprised he was so eager to teach me, knowing that I’m inexperienced and wanting to learn.
So many industry professionals want to hoard their knowledge. Not florists! I’m glad to say that they’re a different breed. They are eager to share their wealth of information. They want to teach. They want others to learn. They’re humble and confident in their skills. We were surrounded by competitions like the Fern Trust Cup and the Sunshine Cup, but the atmosphere was anything but competitive. That in itself was more than comforting.
As a first-time attendee of the “FSFA Annual Convention,” what I took from the experience is that I am capable. I’m capable of being as talented as those around me. I am capable of making a name for myself. I am capable of starting over and creating success. The stories of others I met inspired me to really give this career my all. I want to learn as much as possible. I want to make the connections you all have and be surrounded by great mentors. Attending this convention has allowed me to start the journey, and I am so excited to see where it leads. So, to all of you, thank you for making this industry what it is and allowing newcomers, like myself, to feel like they matter.
Amazing! Thank you so much for sharing this!