On March 8-10, AIFD Southern Chapter hosted Gather in Covington, Georgia for an educational weekend of creativity and learning among flower enthusiasts.
Not only did Gather provide a platform for florists and designers to sharpen their skills and exchange ideas, but it also served as a source of inspiration and a hub for building lasting connections within the industry. From hands-on workshops to thought-provoking seminars, Gather offered a diverse range of learning opportunities to cater to the varying interests and needs of attendees.
Attendees had the chance to attend three workshops focusing on stretching their floral design abilities: Stretch your creativity by Aisha Crivens, AIFD, CFD, Beyond the Bouquet: Unconventional Wedding Floral Artistry by Carol Inskeep, AIFD, CFD, CJE and Inspiring Designs with Floral Netting by Martha Whitney Butler, AIFD, CFD. Attendees had the chance to learn and explore new techniques and create a design in the last portion of the class.
Main stage programs included: Mysteries Unveiled: Color in Context by Jodi Duncan, AIFD, Real sympathy for Real Florist by K. Mike Whittle, AIFD, CFD, AAF, GMF, Structures and Beyond by Terry Godfrey, AIFD, CFD, CJE, EMC and Real Weddings and Proms by Pattie Wallender, AIFD, PFC
Gather 2024 offered two opportunities for attendees to challenge themselves, learn from others, and make lasting connections in the world of flowers while highlighting future generations’ talent. This year, we hosted our traditional SAIFD competition with Western Kentucky University students and included a FFA competition for both Junior and Senior Divisions.
SAIFD Competition, results Western Kentucky University
Category: Celebration of life
1st: Ella Haley
2nd: Joe Taylor
3rd: Ciara Davis
Category: Flowers to wear
1st: Hailey Bauman
2nd: Ella Haley
3rd: Ariel Wolfe
Category: Flowers to carry
1st: Ella Haley
2nd: Jolie Rayome
3rd: Ciara Davis
Category: Arrangement
1st: Tie between Ella Haley & Arin Stewart
2nd: Jolie Rayome
3rd: Ciara Davis
Over all winners
1st: Ella Haley
2nd: Arin Stewart
3rd: Jolie Rayome
Congratulations to all!
A PFDE mock test was held for attendees considering taking the test in Orlando or in the future. The test allowed participants to discuss their work with AIFD members and receive feedback as part of our Southern Chapter Mentoring Committee’s efforts to help aspiring AIFD individuals in our region.
Gather 2024 provided an ideal setting to enhance floral design skills and foster camaraderie. On Friday night, attendees unwound during the Ice Cream Social and Meet and Greet following competitions and the PFDE Mock test. On Saturday night, we had a Bon Fire and Smores Party, with all proceeds going to the David Shover AIFD fund.
We appreciate our sponsors’ support in making the fundraiser efforts a success: Aisha Crivens AIFD, CFD, Kevin Coble AIFD, CFD, Kevin Hinton AIFD, CFD, Roger Dennis AIFD, CFD, James Ross Railey AIFD, CFD, John Kittenger AIFD, CFD, Robyn Arnold AIFD, CFD, Terry Godfrey AIFD, CFD, Carol Inskeep AIFD, CFD.
A huge thank you to our sponsors, we couldn’t have done Gather without them.: Ferntrust, Bellevue, Fitz Design, Floramart, Flower General/Carlstedt’s Pensacola, AIFD Foundation, Potomac Floral Wholesale, D-Kay Wholesale Florist, Floriology Institute, Bloomnet and Rosaprima.
Thank you to our AIFD National President, Theresa Colucci AIFD for joining us and be part of the Gather experience.
The event was a true reflection of the AIFD Southern Chapter’s mission to promote excellence in floral design and nurture a strong community of passionate professionals. With its curated content and welcoming atmosphere, Gather left a lasting impact on all those who were part of it.
