By Nita Robertson AIFD
As the floral world turns its eyes toward Palm Springs this summer for the 2025 American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) National Symposium, a beloved tradition will once again come to life in full bloom: the Blooms Over Program. This inspiring initiative gives floral designs a second life—spreading beauty, kindness, and comfort to members of the local community in need.
First brought to life in 1993 by Kirk Pamper AIFD during the San Francisco Symposium, the Blooms Over Program began with a simple, profound idea — that flowers, even after serving their original purpose, still have the power to uplift. Alongside fellow designers Michael O’Neil AIFD and Lynn Larry McLean AIFD, Pamper coordinated the first delivery of post-symposium floral arrangements to local AIDS hospices and hospitals. The initiative didn’t stop there. With flowers also finding their way to Meals on Wheels programs and shut-in elders, the mission was clear: share beauty where it’s needed most.
This summer in Palm Springs, the mission continues.
After the spotlight fades and the applause quiets, the flowers used in stage programs and events will be gathered, reimagined into fresh bouquets, and delivered to local senior centers and care facilities throughout the local community.
While the program’s recipients and organizational structure evolve each year based on local needs, the spirit remains unchanged — to ensure that the incredible artistry of the AIFD Symposium lives beyond the event itself. It’s not just about sustainability, though the program beautifully aligns with waste-reduction goals; it’s about human connection, compassion, and the quiet magic of a well-placed bloom.
We need your help to make it happen.
This year’s team is already deep in planning, aiming to have an impact in the Palm Springs area. The floral community is encouraged to participate in this amazing project.
Volunteers are essential to the success of the Blooms Over Program. Whether you’re a student, designer, industry professional, or just someone who loves flowers and wants to give back, we invite you to join us in the bouquet-making effort. It’s a beautiful and fulfilling way to extend the life of these incredible designs—and a chance to experience the joy that comes from giving beauty to others.
How to Get Involved:
If you’ll be attending the 2025 Symposium and would like to volunteer your time to help create bouquets, please keep an eye out for sign-up information, hours and location.
Together, let’s carry the spirit of the Symposium into the community—one bouquet at a time.
Because flowers don’t just make a statement on stage. They make a difference in the world.
