Editor’s Note: This week’s lead story is courtesy of Joe Guggia, AIFD, of JP Designs in Santa Maria, Calif.
Everyday I’m amazed at the scope of floral designs out in our world. From florists’ daily design posts on Facebook to events across the globe, designers are constantly reaching out and sharing their creative genius. That was certainly the theme at AIFD Southwest Region’s “Ultimate Wedding Challenge” earlier this month in San Bernardino, Calif. The program overflowed with innovation and passion, sending the audience (which was standing room only) home to their work nests with varied design ideas and techniques.
For those who were unable to make it San Bernardino, here’s a brief recap:
Talented AIFD designers Susan Standerfer, Samuel Van Wert, and Beth O’Reilly each showed their diversified skills that gave the show artful viewer pizzazz.
Van Wert’s designs were organic, featuring “earthy-looking” product, like succulents—with a touch of glitz.
Standerfer made gypsophila look positively lush, fashioned into a gazebo as well as a dress.
O’Reilly started the show with some Flemish style, interspersed with creative armature construction as a nod to the genius of Hitomi Gilliam.
The “Creative Bouquet” competition was a huge success that shined a light on local designers’ talent. It was accompanied by an inspiring bouquet construction seminar, led by Katie McCormick Kharrat, AIFD.
“AIFD Reaches Out” local symposiums are great opportunities to mingle, share their ideas, and stay abreast of the current floral design scene. Sponsors Mellano & Company, Mayesh Wholesale, Fitz Designs, and Smithers Oasis Company make this all possible with their generous donations and time, showcasing their wares on stage and on the vendor floor. Their continued devotion to our industry allows our creators to excel. A symposium is sure to come your way and, let me tell you, it’s THE best place to be to enhance your design skills to get the money rolling in.
Everyday I’m amazed at the scope of floral designs out in our world. From florists’ daily design posts on Facebook to events across the globe, designers are constantly reaching out and sharing their creative genius. That was certainly the theme at AIFD Southwest Region’s “Ultimate Wedding Challenge” earlier this month in San Bernardino, Calif. The program overflowed with innovation and passion, sending the audience (which was standing room only) home to their work nests with varied design ideas and techniques.
For those who were unable to make it San Bernardino, here’s a brief recap:
Talented AIFD designers Susan Standerfer, Samuel Van Wert, and Beth O’Reilly each showed their diversified skills that gave the show artful viewer pizzazz.
Van Wert’s designs were organic, featuring “earthy-looking” product, like succulents—with a touch of glitz.
Standerfer made gypsophila look positively lush, fashioned into a gazebo as well as a dress.
O’Reilly started the show with some Flemish style, interspersed with creative armature construction as a nod to the genius of Hitomi Gilliam.
The “Creative Bouquet” competition was a huge success that shined a light on local designers’ talent. It was accompanied by an inspiring bouquet construction seminar, led by Katie McCormick Kharrat, AIFD.
“AIFD Reaches Out” local symposiums are great opportunities to mingle, share their ideas, and stay abreast of the current floral design scene. Sponsors Mellano & Company, Mayesh Wholesale, Fitz Designs, and Smithers Oasis Company make this all possible with their generous donations and time, showcasing their wares on stage and on the vendor floor. Their continued devotion to our industry allows our creators to excel. A symposium is sure to come your way and, let me tell you, it’s THE best place to be to enhance your design skills to get the money rolling in.
