AES Candidate Registration Opens

6:30 PM

Welcome to Chicago!!!!
It’s a star spangled celebration Chicago style as AIFD’s National Symposium gets underway with a wonderful cash bar reception featuring the student’s from our SAIFD chapters and their competition pieces. Mingle with old friends or get acquainted with
new ones before heading out into the city to enjoy the fireworks and Grant Park.

Picnic with the AIFD Partners (Cash bar)
Celebrate the afternoon visiting with AIFD’s outstanding partners. Stroll the many displays of products and services as you enjoy a Chicago-style picnic lunch.
(Cash bar)

5:30 PM

AIFD National Former Presidents Reception (invitation only)

5:30 PM

Induction Rehearsal (invitation only)

“Chinese Design – Past, Present, Future”

Featuring: Pete Samek AIFD, Naperville, IL

AIFD Symposium is in full swing as we start the programs with North Central Region’s own Pete Samek AIFD. Pete will pass along his love for Chinese design influences as he takes us back to the fifth century to explore the impact this unique and symbolic art form has had on Western design. Pete is the Assistant Director for the American Floral Art School and has traveled extensively for the school to Taipei, Taiwan and Shanghai, China. It is that experience that will bring his program to life before your very eyes as we discover why this design style has endured in the hearts of designers from all around the world.

“From the Farm to Floral Art”

Featuring: Laurie Lemek AIFD, Wheeling, IL &
Bobbi Ecker Blatchford AIFD, Chicago, IL

Have you really ever stopped to smell the roses? You will once you have discovered the process behind some of your favorite varieties. Two of AIFD’s own American Beauties, Laurie Lemek AIFD, and Bobbi Ecker Blatchford AIFD, will explore with us the people and the places behind these beloved flowers. Take an intimate look into the lives of the workers, their cultures and their history as they prepare to bring the rose to our design benches. You will surely walk away with a new and amazing appreciation for the rose.
(Underwritten through a grant from Everflora)

“For Your Eyes Only”

Featuring: Sarah Horne AIFD, Warwickshire, England

If you prefer your floral designs shaken, not stirred, you will be delighted as Sarah Horne AIFD presents the best of James Bond. This creative and feisty Bond Girl will reveal concepts and techniques that have helped her win two gold medals and one
bronze at the Chelsea Flower Show. Her infectious passion for the floral industry and detail inspired creations will leave you stimulated and amazed. This spectacular program is definitely not just “For Your Eyes Only” but for all to enjoy!
(Underwritten through a grant from Accent Decor.)

Professional Lifesaving Lessons – Luncheon (Ticket required.)

Featuring: Joyce Mason-Monheim AIFD PFCI
Deborah De La Flor AIFD PFCI
Jerome Raska AIFD PFCI AAF
Sherry Reinking AIFD PFCI AAF
Tina Stoecker AIFD PFCI
Vince Butera, AIFD, PFCI

Shed the water wings. Five champion lifeguards are on duty and will coach you to swim past the sharks. They’ll drill fundamental strokes needed to get customers coming back and spending more. Take time to master the pivotal first impression. Lessons include enhancing the professional image, rejuvenating the shop environment and becoming a positive leader. No doggie paddling allowed.
Program presented by Society of American Florists and Professional Floral Communicators International.
(Ticket required.)

“Corroboree – Beyond the Dreaming”

Featuring: Richard Go AIFD &
Gail Anderson, Australia

We start the afternoon with a quick trip “down under” as we join up with Richard Go, AIFD and Gail Anderson who will share with us the many historical influences that have directed the art of floral design in today’s modern Australia. Gail, a well respected designer, holds a position on the NSW Professional Florist’s Association and is currently the Principal and head teacher at the Sydney School of Floristry. Richard, a veteran to the AIFD stage, is a well-known, award winning international designer who currently teaches at the Western Sydney Institute of TAFE Richmond College. Together these two incredible designers will give a presentation that will leave you wanting more!

“Traditional Culture, Contemporary Beauty”

Featuring: Yutaka Jimbo AIFD, “Mr Jimbo,” Tokyo, Japan
Program commentated by Damien Koh AIFD PFCI

Traditional Japanese culture meets modern Japanese flower design in this magnificent program presented by one of Japan’s leading design experts. Mr. Jimbo’s style is clean and precise, his techniques meticulous. Known worldwide, he has taken part in numerous international flower design demonstrations and exhibitions. A certified First-Class flower design expert accredited by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Mr. Jimbo is also a training instructor in floral design and business management in Tokyo.

5 PM

Private Reception for New AIFD Inductees (Invitation only)
The AIFD National Board and Membership Committee join to salute this year’s class of Accreditation Inductees.
(Invitation only)

Awards/ Installation Ceremonies
Everyone is invited to be present when AIFD honors this year’s awards recipients and inducts its newest class of Accredited Members during the highly anticipated ceremonies.

Floral Décor: John Hosek AIFD, East Lansing, MI

Awards/Induction Dinner Celebration
From the Awards/Induction ceremonies, we move to a delightful dinner to celebrate our honorees. (Ticket required for this coat-and-tie dinner. IMPORTANT – Remember: pre-seating assignments required for this event. See “Dinner Seating” information for details)

(Flowers graciously provided by Mayesh)
Floral Décor: John Hosek AIFD, East Lansing, MI.

Afterglow celebration – Hospitality
Adjourn from the Awards dinner and kick up you heels for dancing and more celebration in the Grand Ballroom.

“Celebrating the Wonderful World of European Cut Flowers”

Featuring: Pascal Koeleman &
Miranda ter Voorde

The Flower Council of Holland is bringing the wonderfully colorful world of European cut flowers to the AIFD stage! Top floral artists Pascal Koeleman and Miranda ter Voorde, are well known for their creativity and professional way of working with flowers and decorations. They will demonstrate how European cut flowers can be arranged to create stunning compositions for your business, events and weddings. You will be informed with the latest tips about branding and marketing and how you can visually develop your own identity and style using European cut flowers! (Underwritten through a grant from The Flower Council of Holland.)

“River Run”

Featuring: Ann Jordan AIFD, Naples, ME

It is said that it is not the destination, but the journey that inspires. Capture the spirit as we join Ann Jordan AIFD on a journey of a lifetime. Follow along as Ann twists and turns down the river to reveal her interpretive and inspirational creations. With more than 20 years of design experience, Ann will brighten the stage with her infectious smile, her enthusiastic personality and a creative touch. Her story will uncover the hidden paths that bring us closer to understanding the evolution of nature’s art.
(Underwritten through a grant from FTD.)

“Man-made Marvels – The Evolution of Form”

Featuring: David Marstellar AIFD, Des Moines, IA

Mankind has experimented with different architectural forms throughout the ages. So why stop now? David Martstellar AIFD builds a foundation through his interpretive style and an imagination bigger than the Trump Towers. This program will bring you to the edge of your seats as we watch David examine how form, function and aesthetics have influenced practically every area of floral art.

“Are You Indispensable?” – Luncheon (Ticket required.)

Featuring: Kate Penn

Today’s competitive business environment requires that you bring more than outstanding designs to the business. “Floral Management” Editor-in-chief Kate Penn shares ideas from shops around the country whose designers go the extra mile to proactively increase sales, profits and, consequently, their value to the business. (Underwritten through a grant from SAF.)
(Ticket required.)

“Interwoven…Art Naturally”

Featuring: James Lutke, Spring Lake, MI &
Alice Waterous AIFD, Grand Haven, MI

Extraordinary, eclectic, organic, and sculptural genius, are just a few of the words used to describe the works of artist James Lutke. James’s ability to see beyond what is naturally there and take it to the next level is as inspiring as nature itself. Ever curious and fascinated with the way nature evolves, James found himself at a young age making objects from his findings on the forest floor, beach, in and about the streams and often castoffs of others. His presentation’s secondary use of a myriad of materials forms the backbone of his artistic expression.

3:30 PM

“Found in Flanders: Form, Flowers, Fashion”

Featuring: Ivan Poelman, Belgium

Prepare to be wowed as Ivan Poelman brings Haute Couture to the AIFD stage. With an emphasis on techniques new and old, Ivan will create floral fashions that will combine imaginative work, ingenuity of technique and importance of mechanics.
Ivan, known for his avant-garde floral designs, has been commissioned by the Belgian Royal family and Belgian beau mode. His interest in sculpture, architecture and fashion along with his often challenging commissions keep his creativity blazing.
(Underwritten through a grant from “FLOWERS &” magazine and Edito
Floris Bookshop.)

AIFD Foundation Silent and Live Auction Wrap Up
Check if you had the winning bid in the silent auction and pick up your item. Hang around as we close out the event with a few exciting “live bid” items -- don’t miss your chance!

“Carnivalle Bravissimo – an evening in Venice!”
Special AIFD Foundation event (Separate ticket required.)

Your feathers, beads, and bangles will create quite a show as your Gondola (AKA. the bus) departs the hotel and weaves its way through the streets and canals of Venice (or Chicago) to a private getaway created especially for you and your party
friends. Kennicott Brothers Wholesale will be transformed during this surreal and magical evening. Join the parade of costumes and win one of many prizes for best costume and other hilarious categories.(Costumes and masks are encouraged. A mask bar will be available at the Foundation information desk.)
(Separate ticket required.)

“With This Ring – Inspired Ceremony Decor”

Featuring: Howard Silver AIFD, Chicago, IL

Tired of the same old pew bows? Sick of the so-called “traditional” matching altar arrangements? If so, it’s time to mix it up a bit and get inspired by this innovative and entertaining designer. Howard Silver AIFD will uncover the unlimited and fashion forward possibilities of wedding ceremony décor. He’ll
cover topics that range from basic accents to symbolic and cultural rituals. Howard’s outstanding creations will leave you asking for more!

“Encore – Inspiration for the Senses”

Featuring: Tim Farrell AIFD, Drexel Hill, PA

Inspired by Legendary Broadway Musicals, Tim Farrell AIFD will send our senses soaring to new heights. As Tim strolls along Broadway, he will entertain us with fresh and fabulous floral event décor, bold ideas and artistic interpretations that would bring Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber to his feet.

(Underwritten through a grant from Teleflora)

Boy Meets Girl: A Wedding Collaboration

Featuring: R. Scott Acevedo AIFD, Tustin, CA,
Steven Brickner AIFD, Chesterton, IN,
BJ Dyer AIFD, Denver CO,
William Murphy AIFD, York, PA,
Eddie Payne AIFD, Dade City, FL,
Jon Throne AIFD, Bellevue, WA,
Robert Koene, Athens, Greece

Bridal bouquets with a twist – all from a man’s perspective. You could say that it’s the groom’s turn in the spotlight as we showcase an eclectic mix of bouquet fashions in runway style. We have searched all the regions of AIFD and then expanded our search across the seas to bring you the ultimate collaborative
pool of outstanding design experts. Each of these talented men take their enthusiasm and passion for the art of flowers to a new and exciting level.

The first portion of the program features the talent of AIFD’s very own “men of distinction” as they each share trends and styles that are all the rage in their respective regions. Immediately following we will be treated to an international bouquet extravaganza featuring the design talent of world-renowned floral designer and instructor Robert Koene. This is going to be a long one folks, but you’ll not want to miss out on this spectacular grand finale program!

1 PM

AIFD National Board of Directors Meeting

AIFD Steps to Membership
Now that you’ve been totally blown away with an overload of creative designs, isn’t it time for you to find out what it takes to become an Accredited Member of AIFD? AIFD’s National Membership Committee will show you the way.

“Keys to Communication”

Featuring: Sharon McGukin AIFD PFCI AAF

Looking for a way to unleash your hidden ability to become an effective speaker? Discover the technical keys of communication used by professional presenters at this seminar. First presented during last year’s Symposium, the seminar received a 9.5 rating out of 10 from attendees. Sharon returns with even more tips and techniques to improve your speaking style and walk you through the steps for making a winning presentation. She’ll also talk about how to join the industry’s premier speakers bureau, SAF’s Professional Floral Communicators – International (PFCI) Hurry! Seminar registration is limited. Contact the Society of American Florists at (800) 336-4743 or PFCI@safnow.org. This seminar is not included with the Symposium registration. Non-PFCI member: $50.00 before June 21, $75.00 after if space is available PFCI Member: Complimentary.

“luce moderna”
AIFD’s traditional Final Night Dinner and Dance will wow and inspire you. Don your tux or fancy dress and help to celebrate the conclusion to another outstanding National Symposium. (Ticket required for this black-tie event. IMPORTANT – Remember: pre-seating assignments required for this event. See “Dinner Seating” information for details.)

Floral Decor: Anthony Vigliotta AIFD, Los Angeles, CA

Southern Regional Chapter Board of Directors

AIFD FOUNDATION PRESENTS
“Structure, Form and Technique”
A dynamic special event presented by the AIFD Education Foundation. This “hands on” design seminar will be taught by two of the world’s most creative and acclaimed designers Moniek Vanden Berghe and Ivan Poelman.

An additional $275 workshop fee includes all products. Workshop attendees will participate in morning lectures and an afternoon workshop with both instructors. Bring your design tools! There will be a one-hour lunch break. Lunch is not provided. Registration is limited to the first 90 participants. You must be a full or education only registrant to be eligible for this workshop. CLICK HERE for more information on the program.

OUTSTANDING VARIETIES

Again this year, AIFD will feature a display “Outstanding Varieties.” Floral artistry starts with the right materials. Here is your chance to see, smell and touch award-winning flowers and plants. Critics recognized them as Best in Class and with Blue Ribbons during the Outstanding Varieties Competition held during the Society of American Florists' convention.

“Structure, Form and Technique”
The AIFD Foundation offers a full day workshop experience with two of Belgium’s top floral designers.

Moniek Vanden Berghe, Cleome and Lembeke, Belgium, will conduct a class based on her personal style and techniques of bridal bouquets. Her floral art is featured in her publications “Love I” and “Love II.” A highly sought after designer and lecturer, Moniek has traveled to France, Japan, England, Ireland, Wales, Korea, Finland and Australia. She also presented a program at the 2006 symposium in Washington, D.C. Moniek loves detail and balance in her bridal designs. She is a self-professed “child of nature” and searches the outdoors and nature for “everything that keeps surprising me” to include in her designs.

Ivan Poelman, Gent, Belgium, will share his techniques and style to workshop attendees following the presentation of his main stage symposium program. During the workshop you will experience his love for the use of seasonal flowers, sculpture, architecture, and fashion. His extensive international travels, and interaction with the world’s top floral designers keeps Ivan’s creativity blazing. He is regularly commissioned by the Belgian Royal Family, and is often featured in “Fleur Creatif,” Belgium’s floral design magazine.