by Andie Muller, AIFD, CFD, FSMD, PFCI
The Society of American Florists (SAF) Convention in Miami 2024 was nothing short of a floral masterpiece, and behind every bloom was the extraordinary effort of the SAF Design Team 2024. This year’s team, with eight designers plus a guest designer, was led for the first time by Lorraine Cooper AAF, AIFD, PFCI, NDSF (Design Chair), who took the reins after 20 years of Ian Prosser AIFD, CFD, AAF, NDSF leading the team.
Lorraine’s leadership brought a fresh perspective to the team while honoring the traditions that have made the SAF convention a floral showcase like no other.
A Marathon of Creativity and Teamwork
Over the course of 7 days, each designer poured their heart and soul into the event, working an average of 10 hours a day. The commitment is evident not only in the stunning displays they created but also in the physical effort required—each team member clocked in an average of 20,000 steps per day! Some mornings began as early as 6 am to be able to set up the breakfast areas and the meeting rooms, and on other days, the work stretched late into the evening, as the team meticulously prepared the fresh florals that would awe attendees.
The Design Room = The Magical Room
The design room, where the magic happened, was active and organized. With over 200 buckets of flowers processed, conditioned, and arranged, the team faced the challenge of managing an overwhelming quantity of blooms. Yet, thanks to the meticulous planning and coordination between the designers and the SAF team, every single planned arrangement, and some, was created by the team.
This was more than just a design room; it was a well-oiled machine where each team member played a specific role. From handling the logistics of flower shipments to ensuring every bloom was in perfect condition for arranging, the team demonstrated an unparalleled level of professionalism and collaboration. The success of the SAF Miami 2024 convention is a testament to the dedication, skill, and teamwork of the SAF Design Team:
Lorraine Cooper, AAF, AIFD, PFCI, NDSF (Design Chair)
Bill Hattel, AIFD, PFCI, CFD
Robyn Arnold, AIFD, CFD
Carrie Moore, AAF
Andie Muller, AIFD, CFD, FSMD, PFCI
Steven Santos, AIFD, CFD
Kathy Jones, AIFD, PFCI
Corey Harbour, AIFD, PFCI, NAFD
Andie Muller, AIFD, CFD, FSMD, PFCI is AIFD´s Southern Chapter Vice-President and owner of the The Flower Studio Oxford in Oxford, FL.
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