Southern Chapter has exciting news and opportunities to share this fall: from Gather 2026 and leadership nominations, to contests and member achievements. Here are the latest updates.
Celebrating Jackie Lacey AAF, AIFD, PFCI
Southern Chapter is proud to recognize one of our own, Jackie Lacey, AAF, AIFD, PFCI, AIFD National Past President, as the recipient of the prestigious Tommy Bright Award, presented this August at the SAF Convention. This honor highlights his lifelong dedication to floral education and presentation.
Jackie has long been admired for his creative vision as well as his generosity as a mentor. Throughout his career, he has inspired and guided countless professionals and students, helping them develop their skills and grow in confidence.
His impact on the floral industry is both lasting and far-reaching, and we celebrate this well-deserved recognition of his outstanding contributions.
Step Into Leadership: Nominations Open for Spring Elections 2026
Southern Chapter is now gathering nominations for AIFD Southern Chapter Board of Directors positions for the spring 2026 election. This is a great way to get involved, serve our region, and help shape the work we do together.
If you’re interested or simply want to learn what the commitment looks like, please email Past President Marcela López-Vallejo AIFD at marcela@marcelafloral.com She’ll be happy to talk with anyone who’s curious about running for a director position or has questions about the process.
We welcome both first-time candidates and returning leaders.
Ready to Take on the PFDE®? Practice with Us at Gather 2026!
Are you thinking about testing in Orlando? Gather 2026 is your chance to get hands-on experience with a PFDE® Mock Test designed to help you prepare, learn, and grow. Whether you’re pursuing AIFD accreditation or simply looking for valuable professional development at the regional level, this session was created with you in mind.
Why you don’t want to miss it:
- Step into the PFDE® format in a real-time setting
- Receive constructive feedback directly from AIFD evaluators
- Build skills and confidence before the big day
- When & Where:
March 6–8, 2026
FFA Camp, Covington, GA
This is more than a practice run, it’s an investment in your success and growth as a floral designer. Official registration details, program highlights, and the speaker lineup will be announced soon. Stay tuned for updates and make plans to join us for a weekend full of education, creativity, and community.
AIFD Southern Chapter Launches a New Facebook Page
We’re excited to announce that AIFD Southern Chapter has started a brand-new Facebook page. You can follow it here.
The original Facebook group will remain active, so there’s no need to worry about losing that space. However, after hearing feedback from our members, we recognized the need for a page that highlights what’s happening specifically within Southern Chapter. Many of you shared that the original group could feel oversaturated at times, making it harder to find updates and important information.
You spoke, and we listened. This new page will provide a clear, streamlined way to stay connected with chapter news, events, and announcements. Please show your support by giving the page a follow, we’re grateful for your continued engagement.
2026 Body Flower Contest
Get ready! entries for the 2026 Body Flower Contest will open soon. This annual celebration of wearable floral design honors the legacy of David Shover AIFD, whose generosity and mentorship continue to inspire our community.
By taking part, you’ll have the opportunity to showcase your creativity while also supporting the David Shover AIFD Fund, which helps future generations of floral designers grow and thrive.
Contest rules, entry dates, and sponsor details will be shared shortly. Stay tuned for more information.
Announcing the 2026 Southern Chapter Inductees
We are proud to celebrate two outstanding designers who will be inducted into AIFD next summer at the AIFD National Symposium in Orlando, FL.
- Svetlana Bespalov, Springfield, VA
- Eddie Dooling, Miami, FL
Please join us in congratulating Svetlana and Eddie on this remarkable achievement. We look forward to officially welcoming them into Southern Chapter and honoring their accomplishments at Symposium.
As we move into the fall season, we’re grateful for the energy and dedication of our members. May this autumn bring fresh inspiration to your work and new opportunities to connect within our community. Happy Fall from all of us in Southern Chapter!
