Exciting Updates: What To Expect at Gather 2025 Conference?
- AIFD Southern Chapter
- Jan 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 18
We are beyond excited to invite you to Gather 2025, our third annual educational event happening March 7-9, 2025, at the FFA Camp in Hardinsburg, KY!
Gather 2025 is quickly becoming a beloved tradition in the floral community, offering florists the rare opportunity to come together in a relaxed, intimate setting to learn, recharge, and connect with peers and mentors. This year, we’re bringing even more inspiration, knowledge, and creative spark—and we can’t wait for you to be a part of it!
Meet Our Stellar Lineup of Instructors and Presenters
We’ve curated an incredible roster of floral experts to guide you through both thought-provoking keynotes and hands-on workshops. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills, discover new techniques, or simply feel inspired again, Gather 2025 has something for everyone!
Keynote Presentations:
- Let’s Spill the Tea with Carolyn Minutillo, AIFD, EMC, PFCI – A candid conversation full of insights and inspiration.
- Mystery Program! with Donald Yim AIFD, PFCI. Sponsored by Smithers-Oasis.
- Petals to Profits with Ralph Giordano, AIFD, FSMD, PFCI – Learn how to turn your passion into a profitable business.
- Signature Style with Benjamin Lee, AIFD, CFD, KMF, PFCI – Discover how to find and define your own floral signature style.
Hands-On Workshops:
- Let’s Get Wired with Linda K Speer, AIFD, CFD – Dive into the magic of wire manipulation and learn new tricks to elevate your designs.
- Who Knew? It’s Felt and Glue! with Laurie Lemek, AIFD, CFD, PFCI, AAF – Explore the creative potential of unconventional materials in floral design.
- Shoulder Corsage Mastery: Creative Floral Techniques with Marcela López-Vallejo, AIFD, EMC, PFCI, CEJ, CFD – Master the art of wearable florals with this hands-on corsage workshop.
Additional Highlights:
- Our Traditional SAIFD Competition – Celebrate the next generation of floral talent!
- PFDE Mock Test for Those Testing in Palm Springs – Get valuable practice and feedback for the PFDE exam.
Why Gather 2025 Is a Must-Attend Event
This isn’t just another conference. Gather 2025 is about fostering deep connections, sharing creative energy, and empowering each other to grow in our craft. It’s about community—and we want YOU to be a part of it.
Whether you're a seasoned floral designer or just starting out, you'll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and equipped with new skills and knowledge to bring back to your business.
Plus, our intimate format means plenty of opportunities to network, ask questions, and connect with industry leaders. You won’t find this kind of access anywhere else!
Don't Wait-Registration Is Now Open!And don’t worry if you’re not part of our region or an AIFD member—Gather 2025 is open to EVERYONE! We believe in creating a welcoming space for florists of all backgrounds.
Lodging Options
We want to make your experience as seamless as possible. Here are some great options for lodging nearby:
-FFA Training Camp provides affordable cabins; there are some available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you were at the Georgia camp last year, it is a very similar setup.
Please read what is included and what you have to bring. Southern Chapter is not responsible in any ways for collecting payment or checking the accommodations. If you have any questions, please contact FFA directly: (270) 756-2301
Cabin reservation link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZAIkqGqRH1zAHzrIMQwm3ISnHDOQemX6MHhKlIzOJStK7g/viewform
- Falls of Rough Resort
25 minutes from FFA Camp
Make your reservation over the phone: (270) 879-3115
Limited availability, so book early!
- St Clair Motor Lodge
20 minutes from FFA Camp
Make your reservation: https://www.stclairmotorlodge.com
Limited availability, so don’t wait!
- Airbnb & Vrbo
Additional nearby options are available for your convenience.
Don't Miss Out—Gather 2025 Is Going to Be EPIC!
This is your chance to connect, create, and grow with a community of passionate florists who are as dedicated to the craft as you are. Join us in Hardinsburg, KY for a weekend that promises to be as educational as it is inspiring.
Program
Questions?
Email Andie Muller AIFD
Gather 2025 Committee Chair
We can’t wait to see you there!
Comments