Attendees of SAF Orlando 2021 check out entries in the Outstanding Varieties Competition. SAF’s annual convention offers many ways to get inspired including a live design competition, a floral forecast, a supplier exhibition and design demonstrations.
Looking for some outstanding flowers for weddings? In need of new services for your business? Need some design inspiration? The Society of American Florists has you covered.
SAF Orlando 2022, the Society of American Florists’ 137th annual convention, Sept. 6-8 in Orlando, Florida, will inspire attendees with the newest products and floral trends during the Outstanding Varieties Competition, Supplier Expo, the 53rd annual Sylvia Cup Design Competition, a flower forecast session and an experience zone with Sarah Campbell of Netflix’s “The Big Flower Fight.”
- Outstanding Varieties Competition: Growers from around the world will have the opportunity to showcase their most outstanding varieties of flowers and foliage. Expert judges will rank 13 of the entrants as Best in Class, one Best in Show, and many more will be awarded blue and red ribbons. The deadline to enter the competition is Aug. 17.
- Supplier Expo: Browse through hundreds of new products and services and get to know the vendors who can answer your questions and point you toward profitable opportunities for your business. Want to exhibit? Click here for more details.
- The 53rd Annual Sylvia Cup Design Competition: The longest-running national, live design competition where floral designers are given the same flowers, foliage and design supplies —and just two hours to complete design challenges based on a surprise theme. The competition takes place Sept. 7. The winner is announced during the Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner on Sept. 8. Interested in competing? Enter by August 5!
- 2023 Flower Trends Forecast session: For the past eight years Talmage McLaurin, AIFD, creative director for Esmeralda Farms, has curated a trend forecast that informs and inspires mass market floral buyers. By following home décor and fashion, working with florists, and consulting professional forecasters such as Pantone, Formex and The Trend Bible, McLaurin’s flower-focused forecasts have been the springboard for numerous bouquet programs for nearly a decade. During his presentation on Sept. 8, McLaurin will reveal six of the most compelling trend stories to help you sell more flowers in 2023.
- Intrigue Designs: Floral Installations That Increase Sales: Installations are in demand. During this inspiring and interactive program on Sept. 8, Campbell will share her design strategies for creating over-the-top installations. You’ll learn recipe building and best flower choices for large scale installations, simple techniques to create large scale designs, and how to increase sales with floral installations. Space is limited to the first 50 participants and there is a $19.99 fee to participate. Interested in adding this to your convention registration? Reach out to Laura Weaver Kern.
SAF Orlando 2022 will also include more than 20 other educational sessions, experiential learning demos and networking opportunities. Check out the full schedule here and register to attend!
Stephanie Brady is the project manager for the Society of American Florists.
