Focal Points: An AIFD Blog

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…

A Look Back at the History of the Philadelphia Flower Show

A Look Back at the History of the Philadelphia Flower Show

By Sue Krabill, AIFD Northeast Chapter President The Northeast Region of AIFD is richly steeped in floral history. In November of 1827, 53 prominent men joined together to form the Philadelphia Horticultural Society. The original mission was to advance the “health and well-being” of the…

AIFD Foundation Scholarship Deadline Approaching

AIFD Foundation Scholarship Deadline Approaching

Are you looking to add to your Lifetime of Learning? Are you in a place to inspire another! Receiving a record number of applications in 2025, we awarded over $79,000 in Grants and Scholarships bringing total awards to exceed a million dollars.  Applications are online…

Meet Your AIFD Regional Presidents and Their Welcome Messages

Meet Your AIFD Regional Presidents and Their Welcome Messages

The strength of AIFD lies not only in our national leadership but also in the incredible dedication and vision of our Regional Presidents. These leaders serve as the vital link between members and the Institute, creating opportunities for connection, education, and growth within their regions.…

AIFD Symposium 2025: A Reflective Look at Community, Creativity & Collaboration

AIFD Symposium 2025: A Reflective Look at Community, Creativity & Collaboration

Each summer, the AIFD Symposium brings the floral world together to celebrate design, education, and connection. Held July 12–15 in Palm Springs, California, the 2025 Symposium, Reflection, was a joyful and immersive experience that brought the industry’s top talents together under one roof. As a…

Remembering the AIFD Presidents of the 1960’s

Remembering the AIFD Presidents of the 1960’s

By Janet Black AIFD 2025-26 AIFD Historian In celebration of the American Institute of Floral Designers’ (AIFD) 60th anniversary, it’s important to recognize the visionary leaders who helped shape the organization’s early years. The presidents of AIFD during the 1960s laid the foundation for the…