Focal Points: An AIFD Blog

Amber Kirkland, AIFD, CEJ, CF, CFD, to Present “Floral Futurism” at GLFEE 2026

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…

Southern Chapter: Updates and Previews

Southern Chapter: Updates and Previews

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…

A Journey Through Nature and Design: My Experience at Hoogstraten 2025

A Journey Through Nature and Design: My Experience at Hoogstraten 2025

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…

What’s in Store for You in 2026?

What’s in Store for You in 2026?

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…

The Spirit of Aloha Takes the Global Stage at IPM ESSEN 2026

The Spirit of Aloha Takes the Global Stage at IPM ESSEN 2026

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…

 Honoring the Legacy: AIFD NW Members from 1971 & 1981

 Honoring the Legacy: AIFD NW Members from 1971 & 1981

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…

Reflections of the Past That Influenced My Future

Reflections of the Past That Influenced My Future

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.…

Elevate: A Source of Inspiration

Elevate: A Source of Inspiration

By Vonda LaFever AIFD, 2026 National Symposium Coordinator Where do you get your inspiration? Really think about that for a moment. Is it a quiet walk outside, surrounded by the textures and rhythms of nature?Is it the lines and light of a beautiful building on…

How to Nominate an Individual for the Award of Merit Industry

How to Nominate an Individual for the Award of Merit Industry

By Sharon McGukin AIFD, AAF, PFCI Active members in good standing of AIFD, have the opportunity to nominate AIFD members forawards. Take precaution to read the criteria of each award and nominate the right person for the correct award. Offer specific details as to why…

The Future in Action

The Future in Action

By Renee Tucci AIFD PFCI AAF I had the pleasure of accepting an invitation from Leslighann Cravens AIFD to attend the National FFA Convention on October 29th to be  a judge in the Floriculture competition. In all, ten AIFD members were on hand to help…