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 into my first evaluation with little understanding of what AIFD truly represented or how profoundly it would impact my life.
After my second attempt, I proudly earned my AIFD credentials. From that moment, I was welcomed into the AIFD family where I’ve been fortunate to build countless wonderful friendships and connections, that continue to enrich my journey.
After becoming a member, you begin to hear the inspiring stories of the legends who came before you and shaped our organization. One name was always part of those conversations—perhaps because we both belonged to the South-Central Region, or perhaps simply because she was a true rock star in our industry.
Frankie Shelton AIFD was that rock star.
I had the tremendous honor of meeting her at a South-Central design forum where I was presenting. No pressure at all—presenting in front of a floral educator and a pillar of AIFD. She was everything I had heard about her: kind, charming, endlessly knowledgeable, and someone who left a lasting impression on my life.
We stayed connected through Facebook, and she was always one of the first to comment on my floral achievements or to cheer on my quilting posts. She was a constant voice of encouragement, and I cherished every word.
Frankie’s list of accomplishments was extensive, and it is what made her an icon in the floral industry. She was a floral educator for 38 years, sharing her love of flowers with unmatched joy and enthusiasm. She was inducted into AIFD in 1976 and went on to serve as AIFD President in 1982. Frankie played a significant role in shaping the AIFD Regions and their development.
She served twice as AIFD Symposium Chair and traveled across the United States and abroad presenting floral programs, including her well-loved “Live Lessons.” Frankie also had the honor of lending her design talents in Washington, D.C., serving on the Presidential Design Team and decorating the White House for three presidential administrations.
Throughout her extraordinary career, she received numerous awards, including the Award of Distinguished Service to AIFD, the Award of Distinguished Service to the Floral Industry, the Tommy Bright Award presented by SAF, and the title of Trustee Emeritus from the AIFD Foundation.
In 2022, The Frankie Shelton AIFD Endowed Fund was fully funded within the AIFD Foundation, so that education may be provided in perpetuity through Scholarships and mentorships.
In honor of Frankie’s unwavering commitment to AIFD and to the South-Central Region, our Region proudly renamed our design contest in 2019 as the Frankie Shelton Cup. It was a tribute not only to her remarkable achievements, but to the heart and spirit she poured into our community.
Because of her love for our industry—and the countless lives she touched through her teaching, mentorship, and friendship—this award now stands as a symbol of excellence, passion, and generosity. Each year, as designers step forward to compete, they do so in the shadow of her legacy, carrying forward the joy, curiosity, and artistry she embodied so beautifully.
The Frankie Shelton Cup is more than a contest; it is a celebration of the values she lived every day. And through it, her light continues to guide and inspire us.
Last year, the South-Central Region made the heartfelt decision to bring the Frankie Shelton Cup online, opening the door for designers near and far to finally take part. For years, we had heard the same sentiment echoed—so many artists longed to participate, but distance or circumstance kept them from attending our design forums.
By moving the contest online, we hoped to honor those voices and create a space where anyone who felt connected to Frankie’s spirit and legacy could join us. It allowed designers—whether seasoned or emerging—to step forward, to create, and to feel included in something bigger than a competition.
Most importantly, it allowed more people to share in the celebration of Frankie’s life, her passion, and the legacy she left in our hearts.
This year, the competition continues online as the Frankie Shelton Cup opens from February 20, 2026, through March 13, 2026.
Theme: Bridges
The theme “Bridges” celebrates the many ways we come together—how creativity connects cultures, generations, emotions, and ideas. Just as bridges span distances and bring people closer, floral design unites artistry with emotion, structure with nature, and tradition with innovation.
Designers are invited to interpret Bridges through form, color, structure, and story—exploring what it means to connect, uplift, and transcend boundaries through the beauty and language of flowers. Full details will be posted on our Facebook and Instagram pages, in the upcoming weeks
Join us in celebrating Frankie by entering the Frankie Shelton Cup and carrying forward the extraordinary legacy she created. A special prize has also been generously donated by the family of Frankie Shelton, for the First-place winner.
Frankie shared many memorable sayings, and my favorite was, ‘If you rest, you rust.’ This message resonates deeply with me—not only in my floral design career but also in my quilting journey. As we grow in our careers and hobbies, it’s easy to become complacent, but by continually challenging ourselves, expanding our knowledge, and embracing lifelong learning, we keep growing—and we don’t rust.”
Bill Hattel AIFD PFCI CFD/ South Central President
