By Laurie Lemek AIFD
Dear Floral Readers,
I cannot believe that it is already November. For me, this time of year is a time for reflection and a time to count my many blessings.
I try to practice daily “Gratitude”. I am grateful for so many things in life.
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this amazing organization that has been a part of my life for over 30 years! AIFD has provided me with a second family and many opportunities to grow as a floral designer, a mentor and now in leadership.
I am grateful that I have the time in my life to dedicate to this awesome position, and that my family, especially my husband, understands how very important AIFD is to me.
That unconditional love and support allows me to take the time needed to do the work required as President of this institute.
“Members of the Institute will support and promote the development of programs and procedures to stimulate the advancement of creative floral design and professionalism. Members will nurture the advancement of the institutes position as an industry information source, give encouragement to one another to achieve their common goals, and work for the betterment of the profession, the allied professions, students and the public.”
This is the oath we take as members of AIFD.
I am so very grateful for my board of directors! We have a lot of difficult discussions and decisions to make to ensure that we uphold this oath and move AIFD toward into the future with strong goals of increasing our membership, being more inclusive, promoting and developing programs that are timely and cutting edge. That includes our annual Symposium.
I am grateful for our management team and staff that work closely with the Board of Directors, and all of our committees. Each day they continue to learn about our organization and help keep us on track to move forward with a better AIFD.
I am grateful for all of our Committees, Chairs, Vice Chairs and committee members who meet each month, outlining goals, and working with each other with the same endgame, to make AIFD better. Better for our membership, better for the floral industry, better for the public.
We are a volunteer organization, and we have over 140 volunteer members who devote countless hours on the various committees to make AIFD stronger and symposium relevant and exciting! I am grateful for each and every one of you! Your commitment is commendable and appreciated.
Lastly, I am so grateful to the members of AIFD who continually grow and make our organization look amazing!
Reach out to me if you would like to be more involved! We start to build our committees in January, and you have gifts and talents to bring to one of these committees! Reach out to Renee Tucci, our President Elect, she will find the perfect committee for you!
#proudtobeaifd! And Happy Thanksgiving to everyone,
Be Humble, Be kind!
Laurie Lemek, your National AIFD President
