By Sandy Schroeck AIFD, PFCI, CFD
When I was asked to chair the Symposium it was both a scary and exciting thought. On one hand it would be the biggest challenge of my life and the other it was the opportunity to take my favorite things about an AIFD Symposium and bring them all together to inspire designers from across the globe. First, I was very lucky to be joined by my fabulous program coordinator Deborah De La Flor, we make an awesome team.
One of the first tasks was choosing a theme and designing a logo. We wanted our focus to be on flowers and the artistry of floral design. As the program applications came in, the reality of the immense jobs set in, the hard choices began. I am extremely proud of the line up we have put together. We have developed an action packed schedule with a balance of education, inspiration, networking and fun.
2020 Vision for Artistic Floristry highlights
June 30 – Early volunteer arrival, Ambassador arrival
July 1 – PFDE testing 1:00 pm orientation
July 2 – Educational sessions, Student competition, Floral Artistry showcase featuring PFDE Candidates and Student designs on display. Opening hospitality event – Hot in the City speakeasy dress up party and dance.
July 3 – Hands-On sessions, National meetings, Partners reception, Silent auction, AIFD book reveal, Opening main stage program. Late night hospitality party.
July 4 – Hands-On sessions, Best Business Practice sessions, Main stage programs. Lunch to celebrate 40th anniversary of the AIFD foundation. Open night for fireworks.
July 5 – Hands-On workshops, Best Business Practice sessions, Main stage programs, AIFD awards and Induction ceremony, dinner and dancing.
July 6 – Bobbi Cup Competition, Main State Programs, appreciation Lunch and Volunteer appreciation party.
July 7 – Foundation Workshop Featuring Bart Hassam Inter-flora world champion.
I hope you will make plans to join us in Chicago for 2020 Vision for Artistic Floristry. We are looking for volunteers to join our team.
T he volunteer form always appears like a software program. .. can’t complete it.
The good news is that I have previously indicated in an email, my interest and contact information for volunteering at the Symposium in Chicago.
Hope there would be a way to attend at least some Symposium programs as they are so informative and inspirational. I am a newbie of less than two years exposure , with a CFD, and with appreciation for the fine continuing education and inspiration provided through the Symposium experience. Thus far, I have taken courses with: Brian Vetter, Leanne and David Kessler, Phil Rulloda, completed the five AIFD online classes, and enjoyed five classes offered optionally by AIFD at the Las Vegas Symposium.
I am greatly impressed by the “deep bench” of capable volunteers at all levels of AIFD leadership and support and would like to be helpful as is fitting.
Linda R Finkelstein CFD, Mesa, AZ
lindarose1776@gmail.com Phone: 480 380-5379