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.
Several individuals came to mind as I began thinking about the history of our organization and those who have shaped it. Oh, how I would love to have one more conversation with Frankie Shelton, AIFD, about the foundation she built and the impact she had in forming the regions, especially the Southern Chapter. Thankfully, I still have her book, which I often use as a valuable resource.
Next, I think of Ralph Null, AIFD. I remember preparing to test for my PFDE and attending a program he presented. I was deeply inspired by his artistry and knowledge — and I still use some of the techniques I learned from him in my own work.
Then there’s my dear friend Dr. Jim DelPrince, AIFD. If you know Jim, you know his knowledge overflows with enthusiasm. He and I spent an hour on the phone recently discussing the Southern Chapter, AIFD as a whole, and the future of floral design education. We talked about his journey — how as he rose into leadership roles within the Southern Chapter and helped design the AIFD Floral Guide, his administrative responsibilities often took him away from his first lve: design, and from the work that “paid the bills.”
Jim’s influence helped lead to the creation of the Southern Symposium. As that event gained strength, it was renamed the Southern Conference, so as not to conflict with the National AIFD Symposium. Although the Southern Conference eventually ended, its foundation and spirit lives on today in the Southern Chapter’s GATHER — now in its fourth year. GATHER has grown stronger each year, offering an outstanding conference filled with hands-on classes, design programs, and business education.
I first met Jim back in 2000, and it took me 19 years before I earned my certification — but that’s a story for another time.
One of Frankie’s quotes has always stayed with me:
“Education doesn’t cost — it pays.”
That is such a powerful statement. When you think about everything AIFD and the Southern Chapter have to offer, it truly comes down to how much you’re willing to invest in yourself. You only get out of the organization what you put into it.
It saddens me at times to see some in the newer generations wanting everything now — without putting in the work to build themselves into better designers first. Our industry is filled with people seeking education, skills, and business savvy, but too many want it instantly, without making the long-term investment required to achieve greatness.
Social media and YouTube can be wonderful tools — if you’re learning from qualified individuals who have truly invested in their craft. But too often, we see misinformation and shortcuts that weaken the foundation of professional floristry. This lack of depth is reflected in the shrinking statistics across retail and wholesale sectors.
All this brings me back to this truth: the history of the Southern Chapter of AIFD is strong — and my tagline for my presidency says it all: “Southern Strong.”
We must keep our eyes on the future of floral design. Where do we want to be in 10 or 20 years? Will we continue to educate and inspire the next generation to join AIFD and carry the torch forward?
Floral designers today must be better than ever — not just for ourselves, but to shape the future that will become our history. AIFD remains the only national organization offering floral certification. My ask is simple: invest in yourself and in those who come after you, so that the future of AIFD remains powerful, vibrant, and strong — ensuring we continue to make history.
