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…
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…
Dear Members, I’m pleased to share that the year-long comprehensive review of our AIFD Bylaws has been successfully completed. This significant effort was initiated at the recommendation of our former Executive Directors from California, who felt it was time for a deep dive review to…
Allen’s floral career began in his hometown of Archbold, Ohio in 1968 while attending his junior year of high school. After graduation he attended Michigan State University’s Floriculture program which included a work study internship at Mary Warning Flowers in Toledo, Ohio. During his time at Mary…
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…
ALWAYS EVOLVING ALWAYS ON TREND The American Institute of Floral Designers BOOTH 444 January 21-23 2026 Ft Lauderdale Convention Center J Ross Railey AIFD Ken Norman AIFD …
The start of a new year is the perfect time to look ahead, refocus, and recommit to learning and connection. With that spirit in mind, we are thrilled to kick off 2026 by inviting you to Gather, our Southern Chapter weekend dedicated to education, inspiration,…
My journey to AIFD began much later in my floral career. I knew a few friends who were AIFD, but I never imagined it was the right path for me. When the Symposium was held in Denver, a friend encouraged—well, insisted—that I test. I went…
How to Make an AIFD Award Nomination Sharon McGukin AIFD, AAF, PFCI A highlight of the American Institute of Floral Designers symposium each year is the presentation of awards. This important AIFD tradition allows the membership to honor outstanding AIFD members and industry associates whose…