The floral show called AIFD'S Symposium "The Sky's the Limit" was a life changing event for me as a floral designer at 101 Market. I tested for my "AIFD" (this is like getting a doctorate in floral design. Although you can not buy it or go to school for it, you have to test for it and be EXCELLENT) which was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life, but right up there with having kids; the most exciting. As a designer you are put in a room with 100 or more people stressed out of their minds for 4 hours and are told to create 5 designs. The membership committee has picked out 5 categories, you are given a surprise box of flowers and containers to use for these designs. You are only able to bring in 4 tools and you may not talk to any one for that full 4 hours. The stress was so palatable in the room you could cut it with a knife. As one of those stressed designers I was tired after 2 hours of designing because of how tight I held every muscle in my body. I did not even know I was doing it until I realised how tired I was. I had practiced for this but of course they gave me different flowers and colors than I had practiced with, go figure. Hum....so you can't buy your AIFD, you can't take enough classes to obtain it, and now you can not even practice for it in a real sense. You can practice techniques but not the total concept of what you will do for the test. I find out some time this month if I passed. So any of you who are reading this, please cross your fingers and toes for me:) If I do not pass will I do it again? If you would have asked me that the night of the test I would have said "No way in H...!" Now I say, "Yes of course I will". I just hope and pray I passed this time! Only about 10% pass the first time so I am not holding my breath but I am thinking positive thoughts! Keep posted and If I pass I will celebrate and let you all know by posting it here. I love what I do, and I will keep reaching for the stars! Lesa Killian, Designer
Today I had the pleasure to attend the MN State Florist Convention. They offered mini break out sessions on business and design seminars, PLUS design competitions. What a fantastic way to be inspired. Our floral wholesalers came though BIG time in helping support our growing association. Thank you to Len Busch Roses, Koehler & Dramm, Lakeland Florist Supply, Hermes, Krueger, Tropical Gardens, and so many other suppliers. It is wonderful to be inspired to go out and service our customers to the top of our ability and WOW them with great design. The most fun or best part of our industry is the opportunity to keep learning. Every one has a different reason for being in our business with a different philosophy for being a florist or owning a business in the horticulture field. We are passionate people and love what we do. Thank you to all of you our customers who make it possible to live out our dreams. Lesa
