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…

Elevate: AIFD National Symposium 2026 Orlando | July 2–5, 2026 There is a great deal happening behind the scenes as we prepare for Elevate, the 2026 AIFD National Symposium in Orlando and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead. Planning is well underway, and…

The Great Lakes Floral & Event Expo (GLFEE) has announced that designer and educator Amber Kirkland, AIFD, CEJ, CF, CFD, will present a new large-scale installation program titled “Floral Futurism: Monumental Installations for Museums, Runways & Immersive Spaces.” The 2026 expo will take place February 27–March…

As we wrap up the year, the AIFD Southern Chapter is grateful for the creativity, generosity, and momentum our members continue to bring to everything we do. Below are a few key updates: from the close of the 2025 Body Flowers Contest, to exciting details…

By Antonia Tibbits; AIFD The sun is the central force for our solar system, which drives earth’s climate, seasons and provides heat for life. In September, I had the honor to be invited and to participate as a Designer for in the 26th edition of…

There is so much to think about as we look ahead to a new year. Have you set a priority or intention for where you want to focus your energy in 2026? One practice I’ve found incredibly meaningful is choosing a Word of the Year—a…

A Hawaiian Floral Journey by Sue Tabbal-Yamaguchi AIFD, EMC & Brenna Quan AIFD When the world’s premier horticultural community gathers in Germany for IPM ESSEN 2026, attendees will be invited into a breathtaking celebration of Hawaiian beauty, culture, and floral excellence. From January 27–30, 2026, the highly…

By Shamay Andrich AIFD CFD, President NW Regional Chapter When asked to highlight a past AIFD Northwest member, I immediately reached for our Membership Book — my personal bible for connecting with our members. Within those pages lies our history, our artistry, and the foundation of…

By J Ross Railey, AIFD, CEJ, CFD, President Southern Chapter AIFD As I reflect on my journey with AIFD, I think about all the men and women who laid the groundwork for where we are today — and where we will go in the future.…