The start of a new year is the perfect time to look ahead, refocus, and recommit to learning and connection. With that spirit in mind, we are thrilled to kick off 2026 by inviting you to Gather, our Southern Chapter weekend dedicated to education, inspiration, and community.
2025 Body Flowers Contest Winners
Congratulations to our 2025 winners:
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated and donated. Your creativity, generosity, and support play a vital role in the success of this contest and in honoring the legacy of David Shover AIFD.
First Place: Lillian Lombardo — cuff bracelet
Second Place: Gianni Domonichellis — boutonniere
Third Place: Eli Grande AIFD — bracelet
Prizes included:
First Place: $500 Smithers-Oasis package and registration to Southern Chapter Gather 2026 in Georgia
Second Place: Registration to Southern Chapter Gather 2026 in Georgia
Third Place: $50 gift card
The Body Flowers Contest is an important fundraiser for the David Shover AIFD Fund. Through initiatives like this, Southern Chapter continues its focused efforts toward fully endowing the fund, ensuring long-term impact and continued support for future generations of floral designers.
For those who supported the cause without competing, thank you for helping make this year’s contest a success.
Gather 2026 Registration Is Open
Registration is now open for Gather 2026, taking place March 6–8, 2026, at FFA Camp in Covington, Georgia. Gather is a weekend dedicated to inspiration, education, and meaningful connection within our floral community, and we are excited to share an exceptional lineup of programs and presenters.
Gather 2026 will feature a PFDE Mock Test, designed to help candidates gain hands-on experience and build confidence ahead of testing in Orlando. Participants will work through a real-time PFDE-style experience, receive valuable feedback from AIFD evaluators, and strengthen the skills needed for success.
This year’s outstanding lineup of designers and educators includes:
Marlin Hargrove AIFD, PFCI, AAF; Sharon Ivey AIFD, PFCI, AAF, CEJ, CFD, FSMD, GMF; Jolene Powell AIFD, CFD, FSMD, PFCI; Bob Tucker AIFD, CFD, CEJ, FSMD; Pattie Wallander AIFD, PFCI, CFD, ICPF; Terry Godfrey AIFD, CEJ, PFCI, EMC; and AIFD National President-Elect Brent Leech AIFD.
In addition to workshops and presentations, Gather 2026 will include the SAIFD and FFA competitions, offering students and emerging designers valuable opportunities to grow, compete, and engage within the AIFD community.
For registration details, please visit our Eventbrite link. Early bird registration ends February 20, 2026.
We extend our warmest wishes to our Southern Chapter community. May this busy season be filled with creativity, connection, and beautiful work, and we hope to see many of you at Gather 2026.
