A Moment of Celebration: Welcoming 24 New PFCI Inductees!
I am beyond thrilled to kick off this newsletter by celebrating the 24 incredible individuals who will be inducted into Professional Floral Communicators – International (PFCI) at the upcoming SAF Convention in Arizona, August 11–14.
Each inductee has demonstrated exceptional expertise and deep knowledge of the floral industry. They’ve gone above and beyond—submitting their paperwork, validating their points, and producing outstanding videos that showcase their dedication and passion for floral communication.
We are so proud to welcome such a strong and inspiring group into the PFCI family. This year’s impressive number of inductees is a testament to our industry’s growing commitment to education and excellence.
Please join me in celebrating every name listed below—they’ve truly earned this moment, and we can’t wait to cheer them on in Arizona!
To our new inductees: take pride in this incredible milestone. We are proud of you, and it is an honor to welcome you into PFCI.
And don’t forget—registration is now OPEN for the SAF Convention! Whether you’re attending to support our inductees or to connect with fellow floral professionals, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Plus, Sylvia Cup registration is also open! If you’re ready to compete—or simply want to witness some of the industry’s top design talent in action—be sure to get involved early. Space is limited and will fill quickly!
Let’s make this SAF Convention one to remember!
Adam Havrilla AIFD, PFCI, AAF
PFCI Chairperson
PFCI 2025 Inductees
Dov E Kupfer AIFD, FDI
Doug Bates, AIFD, CEJ
Lacey Bilke, AAF, CFD, OACF
Lenzee Bilke, AAF, AIFD, OCF, OACF
Kim Brannan, AAF, CFD
Megan Carollo
Tina Davis, AIFD
Jena Gizerskiy, CFD
Terry Godfrey, AIFD, CEJ, EMC
Christine Guenther, AAF
Holly Haverman, CF
Christina Ignatus, AMF, CFD
Camron King, MPPA
Heather Lockwood, FSMD
Sarah LoBue, AIFD, ICPF
Pilar Mejia, AIFD, EMC
Carrie Moore, AAF, SDCF
Michelle Morgan, AIFD, NDSF, MIFL
Linda Rambaud, AIFD, CAFA
Liza Roeser, AAF
Steven Santos, AIFD
Kelsey Thompson, AIFD
Courtney Turner, AIFD, CEJ, EMC, ICPF
Eileen Weber, AAF
Board Buzz: Exciting Projects Underway for PFCI!
Your PFCI Board of Trustees has been hard at work on several key initiatives aimed at strengthening our organization and supporting our members. Here’s a sneak peek at some exciting projects currently underway:
Nurturing Future Communicators: The PFCI Mentor Panel
We’re excited to report on the successful first cycle of the PFCI Mentor Panel! This invaluable resource offered guidance and support to prospective members navigating the application process.
Mentor Panel member Tim Farrell shared his experience, noting, “I feel that maybe applicants feel more comfortable asking one of the mentors rather than someone who will actually be reviewing the videos/applications for membership.” His insight underscores the vital role mentors play in creating a welcoming and encouraging environment.
This first year also brought forth several excellent suggestions for enhancing the program. These include offering outreach in Spanish to better serve our Spanish-speaking community, and hosting optional Zoom calls throughout the year to connect potential applicants with mentors. These ideas will be key discussion points at the upcoming Board of Trustees meeting during the SAF Convention.
Connect and Grow at AIFD Palm Springs!
If you’re attending the AIFD Symposium in Palm Springs this July, don’t miss our special PFCI session, “Speak with Confidence,” on Monday, July 14, from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m.
This engaging program will walk attendees through key steps for preparing your presentation space, mastering the art of compelling storytelling, outlining the essentials of a strong presentation, and understanding the PFCI application process. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your communication skills or explore membership, this session is a fantastic opportunity to learn and connect.
Sharpen Your Social Skills at SAF Phoenix!
Ready to elevate your digital presence? The Board of Trustees is developing an exciting, hands-on Social Media Workshop for this year’s SAF Convention in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Scheduled for Friday, August 14, this 3–4 hour session will feature seasoned PFCI speakers and educators. The workshop is designed for anyone who finds social media content creation intimidating and will highlight the importance of building a strategic, consistent presence online. You’ll leave with actionable tips and a boost in confidence!
Demystifying Membership: The “Steps to PFCI” Experience Zone
For those considering applying to PFCI, we’re developing a brand-new “Steps to PFCI” Experience Zone for the SAF Convention.
This interactive session will provide a clear overview of the who, what, and how of PFCI membership. Attendees will gain insight into the expected skills and experiences, and learn how to use the Mentor Panel early in the application process. It’s a perfect opportunity to ask questions and understand the path to joining our esteemed community.
Keep an eye out for more information about the Social Media Workshop and the “Steps to PFCI” Experience Zone in future SAF Convention materials. The Board of Trustees is committed to evolving PFCI and delivering valuable resources for our members and future communicators. We can’t wait to connect in Scottsdale!
New Floral Industry Products to Watch in 2025
As we move through 2025, the floral industry continues to embrace innovation and sustainability, driving the development of products that meet the needs of florists, designers, and consumers alike. Here are a few standout trends and tools on the horizon:
- Biodegradable Floral Foam Alternatives
Traditional floral foam is being replaced by sustainable alternatives made from materials like mushroom-based substrates or recycled paper. These new options offer structural support without the environmental impact.
- Advanced Hydroponic Flower-Growing Systems
More accessible vertical hydroponic kits allow florists and hobbyists to grow blooms indoors without soil. These systems are faster, cleaner, and more sustainable.
- Smart Floral Care Devices
Think smart vases with sensors that monitor water levels, temperature, and light—automatically optimizing conditions for your flowers. These may even sync with your phone to send care reminders.
- Floral Preservation Tools and Kits
More advanced DIY kits for preserving flowers—using techniques like freeze-drying—are making it easier to keep cherished blooms for years.
- Sustainable Flower Packaging
Compostable wraps, plant-based cellophane, and recyclable cardboard boxes are becoming industry standards. Packaging can now be both beautiful and environmentally responsible.
- Floral Wall Art and Décor
Dried and preserved flowers are evolving into elegant, lasting wall art—think framed 3D arrangements and natural home accents that blend beauty and longevity.
- Virtual Floral Design Classes
Online floral workshops are getting an upgrade with augmented reality (AR), allowing users to practice arranging flowers in 3D before creating them physically.
The floral industry in 2025 is blending tradition with innovation like never before. From eco-conscious tools to cutting-edge tech, this year’s trends and products are reshaping how we grow, display, and cherish flowers. Whether you’re a seasoned florist or a budding enthusiast, there’s plenty to be excited about!
