Focal Points: An AIFD Blog

Presidents Message: A little bit of peer pressure can go a long way

Presidents Message: A little bit of peer pressure can go a long way

A new year for AIFD is officially underway, and so is the celebration of our 60th Anniversary! In mid-July, members and industry friends gathered in sunny Palm Springs for Reflection—a spectacular symposium filled with inspiration, education, and floral fellowship. Huge congratulations to coordinators Lori Novak…

AIFD Presidential Year in Review

AIFD Presidential Year in Review

As I reflect on my year as President of AIFD, I am filled with immense pride, gratitude, and admiration for the incredible floral artists, educators, and friends I’ve met along the way. Though I only had the opportunity to visit five of our six chapters…

The Education Committee Continues to Explore Terms from the AIFD Terminology Book

The Education Committee Continues to Explore Terms from the AIFD Terminology Book

Repurposing Art is defined in the latest edition of the AIFD® Guide to Terms, Techniques, and Traditions as reappropriating the artifacts of current or older cultures in new and creative ways. Reappropriation in floral design is a growing trend that challenges traditional ideas of beauty,…

Celebrating Our Regional Presidents: Champions of the AIFD Mission

Celebrating Our Regional Presidents: Champions of the AIFD Mission

As we continue advancing the mission of the American Institute of Floral Designers, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible Regional Presidents. Their leadership, dedication, and tireless efforts throughout the year have been instrumental in strengthening our community,…

The Accent: A Celebration of Floral Art and Cultural Exchange in Macau

The Accent: A Celebration of Floral Art and Cultural Exchange in Macau

This Western floral art exhibition, themed “The Accent,” is jointly presented by the Society of Chinese Members of AIFD and the Macau Academy of Flower Arrangement Designers. It ingeniously incorporates Macau’s landmark elements and employs AIFD’s internationally renowned floral design techniques to showcase groundbreaking artistic…

Summer with the Southern Chapter

Summer with the Southern Chapter

As we head into summer, excitement is building across Southern Chapter! With Symposium just around the corner, this is a season of connection and renewed commitment to education and growth. We’re proud to share a few highlights and reminders as we prepare for Palm Springs…

AIFD® Awards Committee Will Soon Seek Nominations

AIFD® Awards Committee Will Soon Seek Nominations

It may seem early, but it’s never too early to start thinking about award nominations! You may begin submitting nominations on November 1. 2025. Do you know someone who deserves to be honored? Have you considered nominating someone but are unsure how to go about…

The Education Committee Explores a Term from the AIFD Terminology Book

The Education Committee Explores a Term from the AIFD Terminology Book

By Laurie Lemek “GREEN BURIAL” A Green Burial, also known as a natural burial, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial practices. It involves burying the body in a biodegradable container without the use of embalming fluids or concrete vaults. This method aims to minimize environmental…

Teaching Those Who Teach

Teaching Those Who Teach

By Brent Leech AIFD, AIFD National Vice President On June 5th, the Arizona State FFA Summer Conference took place in Tucson, Arizona. I was asked to present a teacher’s workshop for 24 agricultural instructors showing and explaining the Principles and Elements of design. I was…

Mastering Greenery Pricing

Mastering Greenery Pricing

Mastering Greenery Pricing: The Overlooked Key to Profitability Let’s be honest—flowers tend to steal the spotlight. Peonies, garden roses, dahlias… they’re the ones that get the “oohs” and “aahs.” But behind every dreamy centerpiece, bouquet, and ceremony arch is an unsung hero: greenery. And here’s…