By Renee Tucci AIFD PFCI AAF
On a blustery Sunday in February, seven eager, potential PFDE candidates arrived at Younger & Son Wholesale in Lansdale, PA., filled with all the nerves you would expect, when pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. Attendees traveled from as far away as Maine to take part in this important event.
While waiting for the “test” to start, the room was quiet as plans and sketches were being formed in the minds of these brave souls. Some ice breakers ensued, but the tension was palpable.
After a brief overview of what to expect from the days upcoming events, and a review of their mock assignments, the testers had 40 minutes to go through all their flowers, to put sketches on paper, and to create a plan. This time was critical in the foundation of the plan that they were about to unleash, as soon as the countdown began.
With four hours on the time clock, everyone was equally relieved and anxious when they heard the words… “You may begin”.
The testers set forth making the most of their time and created the following pieces:
A cascading bridesmaid bouquet in a holder, an arrangement to accent or surround an urn, a hospital bedside arrangement, including two basing techniques, a flower crown for a bride, and a designer’s choice arrangement.
At the end, when time was called and the chaos had been cleaned up, everyone enjoyed some well-earned pizza and Philadelphia Soft Pretzels (because…. Philly!). After everyone was reenergized, the verbal evaluations began.
Tim Farrell AIFD, Cres Motzi AIFD, Janet Corrao AIFD, Jane Godshalk AIFD, Shannon Toal AIFD and Laurie Lemek AIFD were on hand to give kudos, tips and pointers on each design, by all 7 attendees. Terry Godfrey was on hand to support evaluations, and Mark Pellon helped with coordination, too. This 3-hour review session was the most critical part of the day. Not only did everyone learn how to improve their own designs, but they heard and learned from what everyone around them did.
After a long day, the reviews from attendees were in… the day was a successful step in their journey to AIFD. They all know what they can work on to improve, and can use these insights to guide them on their quest to test, or not to test…. THAT is the question!
