I always think SAF’s convention is the best place to network within the industry! After a busy year, I’m so excited to travel, spend time outside of my shop, and reconnect with friends and the new members who I haven’t had the opportunity to meet yet.
By bringing together a diverse group from every segment, showcasing new products, and keeping us updated on the latest trends, the convention helps me to accomplish two important goals – never becoming stagnant in my business and furthering my commitment to lifelong learning.
We’ve already signed up for the convention because I know how my business was affected by the pandemic, but I’m interested in learning what others encountered. I’m looking forward to networking, discovering new ideas and information on issues like the supply shortage.
I always learn so much at SAF’s events. For this year, I want to learn about how the pandemic has effected other shops, the adjustments they’ve made and hopefully learn things that make me better in my day to day operations being a professional florist.
As much as there has been education available online during the pandemic, it’s completely different when it’s in person. Everyone has a different perspective on product, design, and business and when we are all exchanging ideas, amazing things happen.
I was Excited to hear that there was going to be an in-person convention this year. Stacy and I haven’t missed a convention since the mid-90’s.
Networking is our top reason to attend. The connections that I’ve made in doing that is really special – to be around the table with people from across the country that are dealing with the same issues you are. I also always come home with lots of notes from all the educational sessions.
I had a wonderful time learning from industry professionals about great ways to engage with my employees, how to take responsibility and also how to better myself as a leader. I would highly recommend attending next year’s conference to enhance what skills you already possess and also to challenge yourself to learn new tricks of the trade.
Every year, I walk away from convention with so many ideas that I can put into practice as soon as I return to my store. Convention pays for itself (many times over) with the increased sales and cost-saving tips I receive from the presentations.
I learned the ‘big picture’ of social media and met several experts who can help me with the details of implementation in my business. I was able to speak to my technology partner about changes and upgrades in my website. Seeing the new fresh floral products being grown by our expert growers was a high point. I’m so glad we are all doing what we can to make our business and industry better and more efficient. I got to meet these people and talk to them at SAF!
What an incredible convention! I took away knowledge from every single session I attended regardless of how much it pertained to my specific business. All of the presenters were incredible. I loved all of the networking opportunities! It was fun to see this year the extra attention put toward the Next Generation! I look forward to this convention every year!
The 2018 SAF convention was on fire! We couldn’t have had a better time catching up with old friends and learning new ways to take our florist shop to the next level. We’re always looking for innovative ways to grow and expand. So when we come back from the convention we’re energized and ready to hit the ground running. We leave with a ton of ideas and new strategies but there’s always 1 or 2 golden nuggets that takes us to the next level.
SAF convention is the only venue where the entire floral industry comes together. The educational, networking and relationship building opportunities are remarkable. It is where all the industry leaders and leaders of the future meet. Every industry business owner or manager should put this at the top of the “to do” list.
The SAF convention moves your thoughts forward to new and exciting ideas — connects you with growers, wholesalers, vendors and other successful florists.
We have made lifelong friends from all segments of the floral industry at the SAF conventions. We have been attending for over 20 years and always look forward to it.
I attended my first SAF convention this year, and I came away so impressed. There is a genuine felling of unity here. The event exceeded my expectations.
SAF convention is a great way to network and hear from leaders in the industry. I always leave with great tips to take back home and implement to improve our business.
You will learn, connect with others and have fun in the process! In the end, you will take that positive energy and new knowledge back to your business — priceless.
My mom and I wouldn’t miss another SAF convention for the world!
Meeting fellow florists and sharing infor¬mation is priceless. The SAF staff cares about our success and has an abundance of information. All we have to do is ask for it.
The most inspiring resource for improvement in our industry!
The connection and networking with our floral professionals are priceless. You can feel the pulse and positive direction of our industry at convention.
I recommend that anyone who wants to improve their business should attend SAF’s convention and see what new things you can learn.
I was amazed at the learning opportunities at the SAF convention! I went home with a brain and notebook full of great ideas to implement. How to market on social media, formulas for pricing, internship opportunities all over the country, the inner workings of large events. This convention really sparked my enthusiasm and love of all things floral!
The rock-solid reason for this convention’s success is the people who take part in the event. They are more engaged, more passionate about con¬tinuing education, more curious about ‘what’s next’ and more interested in gaining new and quality connections to grow their real, local floral business.