Focal Points: An AIFD Blog

A Walk Back in Time: Who is Jack Smith AIFD

A Walk Back in Time: Who is Jack Smith AIFD

By Janet Black AIFD- Historian 2025-2026 A former AIFD President, Jack Smith AIFD served as a dedicated leader of our organization. During Jack’s administration, his Executive Board consisted of the following: President-Elect Wilton Hardy, Vice President Bill Harper, Secretary Bob Hampton, and Treasurer Holly Money…

Happy Fall from our AIFD President Elect

Happy Fall from our AIFD President Elect

By Brent Leech AIFD Greetings to all my AIFD family and friends across the globe. November is here and I know we’re all busy getting ready for not only Thanksgiving, but also our Christmas holiday season too.  This time of year, it’s always important to…

‘AIFD Korea’ 2025 Fall Seminar

‘AIFD Korea’ 2025 Fall Seminar

By Eun-Sook Noh (Representative of ‘AIFD Korea’) The 2025 ‘AIFD Korea’ Fall Seminar was held on September 13th in Seoul, South Korea.  ‘AIFD Korea’ was established in 2014 and for the last 11years members have met twice a year, with a general meeting in January…

New Terms Added to “The AIFD Guide to Floral Design.”

New Terms Added to “The AIFD Guide to Floral Design.”

Flatlay: A photography term that has been adapted to floral design in which botanical and floral products are arranged or displayed on a flat surface in a decorative manner, then photographed from above. Flat lay pictures or detail pictures are very common and a beautiful…

Fall Updates from the Southern Chapter

Fall Updates from the Southern Chapter

Southern Chapter has exciting news and opportunities to share this fall: from Gather 2026 and leadership nominations, to contests and member achievements. Here are the latest updates. Celebrating Jackie Lacey AAF, AIFD, PFCI Southern Chapter is proud to recognize one of our own, Jackie Lacey,…

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 efforts have created a greater awareness of…

AIFD Education Partners: Growing Together, Reaching the World

AIFD Education Partners: Growing Together, Reaching the World

AIFD’s Education Partner Membership category of membership was created to enhance AIFD’s strong commitment to education by specifically including private sector educators. The commitment and professionalism that each one of our AIFD Education Members puts into their projects and courses is astounding. I am pleased…

A Season of Change and Remembrance

A Season of Change and Remembrance

As we move into the new season, I’ve been reflecting on how much transition mirrors the work we do as floral designers. Just as summer gives way to autumn, leadership is also about guiding through change — balancing tradition with innovation, honoring the past while…

Summer is Winding Down, Activity Picking up in the Southern Chapter

Summer is Winding Down, Activity Picking up in the Southern Chapter

As summer begins to wind down, our chapter has been buzzing with activity, growth, and inspiration. From celebrating member achievements to welcoming new talent and sharing exciting opportunities for professional development, here’s a look at what’s been happening in the AIFD Southern Chapter this month.…

Proud to be AIFD

Proud to be AIFD

By Nita Robertson AIFD There’s something incredibly powerful about those four letters—AIFD. They represent more than a title or credential. For those of us in the floral industry, they symbolize excellence, commitment, artistry, and community. Whether you’re freelancing, teaching, running a shop, or working in…