Dear Members and Friends of AIFD,
As we usher in the New Year, it is with great pride and deep gratitude that we reflect on an extraordinary milestone: the 60th Anniversary of The American Institute of Floral Design. This year, we celebrate six decades of excellence, innovation, and camaraderie in the floral industry.
From our founding members, who dreamed of creating a forum for advancing floral artistry and fostering education, to the passionate individuals who continue to drive our organization forward, AIFD has always been a beacon of inspiration and progress. Their vision and commitment have laid the foundation for the vibrant, diverse, and forward-thinking community we are today.
As we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, we are reminded of the incredible achievements and growth that have defined AIFD’s journey. We are the leading force in floral design, not only in the United States but across the globe, setting the standard for excellence and nurturing the next generation of designers.
It all began in the mid 1960’s, with a designer who envisioned a professional organization whose purpose was to showcase floral design, offer recognition to accomplished designers, and to raise public awareness of the excellence of floral design through quality education.
Her name is Bea Frambach AIFD, and she was on the Board of Directors of the California State Florist Association.
Bea approached that Board with the idea of an organization of designers that would have a rating system perhaps licensing and offer recognition to floral design.
The Board felt there was no need for such an organization and argued they had no money for establishing the organization.
Bea shared her idea about this organization with Art McKee. He became enthused and suggested they start it now on their own. The spark was rekindled, and they shared the idea with Wayne Andrade who was also very supportive. Bea and Art shared the idea from the podium at a florist meeting and 11 people responded with their support and their money and they began meeting to formulate plans for an organization that emerged as the American Institute of Floral Designers – officially in 1965.
This year we as we celebrate the American Institute of Floral Design’s 60th Anniversary, we must celebrate the founding members of AIFD whose vision changes the world of floral design forever:
Wayne Andrade, Virginia Brugere, Lilly Cowell, Bea Frambach, Mariellen Gaudi, Bates Hinds, Jim Hynd, Jack Kloss, Art McKee, Paul Sanders, Iola Schmidt and David Wittry. Together, they outlined our Bylaws and the articles of incorporation were filed in the state of California in 1965, recognizing AIFD as a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization.
While we reflect on our past, we are especially excited to meet at Symposium 2025, Reflections, which will take place in the stunning destination of Palm Springs. As we gather to celebrate our legacy, we will look forward to an event filled with breathtaking designs, inspiring education, and the opportunity to connect with old friends and new. It will be a time to reflect on our past, celebrate our present, and look ahead to a future full of possibilities for our profession.
In the spirit of this anniversary, I encourage each of you to take a moment to consider how far we’ve come, and how much further we can go—together. As we continue to evolve and innovate, let us honor the dedication, creativity, and passion that define AIFD.
I look forward to celebrating with all of you in Palm Springs and to another year of inspiring floral design. Wishing you a year of joy, inspiration, and success.
Warmly,
Laurie Lemek
President, The American Institute of Floral Design
