By Nita Robertson AIFD
The Hawaii Floriculture & Nursery Association (HFNA) successfully concluded its highly anticipated 2024 Fresh Look Expo in Hilo, Hawaii. Set against the lush backdrop of the islands, this immersive event highlighted the vibrant diversity of Hawaii’s native flora.
The Expo began with exclusive tours of local flower farms, granting attendees a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into Hawaii’s renowned floriculture industry. Participants gained insight into tropical flower cultivation, learning about the unique challenges faced by local farmers due to Hawaii’s climate. The tours fostered a deep connection between florists and growers, sparking conversations that bridged design with cultivation. The excitement was palpable, with designers eagerly absorbing knowledge like kids in a candy store.
The theme, “Designing with Hawaii Grown Flowers,” brought together a diverse group of florists, designers, growers, breeders, and flower enthusiasts from around the world. This year’s event transcended aesthetics, focusing on sustainability, collaboration with local growers, and innovative design techniques that embraced the unique qualities of Hawaii’s tropical blooms.
A special announcement was made at the event, unveiling a new variety of anthurium named in honor of renowned floral designer Hitomi Gilliam AIFD. This stunning green anthurium is the result of a collaboration between breeders, growers, and floral designers, showcasing their combined efforts in creating this latest addition to the anthurium family.
One of the Expo’s highlights was the series of live design demonstrations. Attendees were mesmerized as top florists from Hawaii and beyond created stunning arrangements using local flowers such as anthuriums, orchids, and heliconias. These sessions broke away from traditional methods, showcasing new approaches to tropical flower design by blending modern techniques with Hawaii’s natural splendor.
The lineup of designers was world-class, kicking off with Hitomi Gilliam AIFD, Lois Hiranaga AIFD, and Sue Tabbal-Yamaguchi AIFD, EMC. Later that day, the dynamic duo of Phil and Cathy Rulloda AIFD took the stage. Day two featured the incredible talents of Lea Romanowski AIFD, followed by the internationally renowned Rene VanRems AIFD. Each designer brought their own unique style and perspective, offering fresh inspiration for using Hawaiian-grown flowers and foliage.
The Expo also offered interactive workshops, allowing participants to refine their skills and explore new creative frontiers. These sessions provided hands-on opportunities to learn innovative design techniques, bouquet-building strategies, and the art of creating with Hawaii’s tropical flowers. Attendees left with not just practical skills but a wealth of creative inspiration.
More than just a learning experience, the HFNA Fresh Look Expo was a celebration of community. Florists, designers, and growers came together to share their passion for flowers, exchange ideas, and collaborate. The sense of camaraderie was palpable as participants bonded over their shared appreciation for Hawaii-grown flowers.
As the Expo drew to a close, attendees walked away not only with new knowledge and skills but also a deeper connection to Hawaii’s floral culture. The 2024 Fresh Look Expo fulfilled its promise of offering a fresh perspective on floral design, integrating sustainability, creativity, and the unparalleled beauty of locally grown flowers. For many, it was a professional milestone and a lasting source of inspiration.
