2026 Symposium “Elevate”

Welcome to Elevate the 2026 AIFD® National Symposium

2026 Symposium Wrap Up

AIFD’s 2026 Elevate Symposium Reaches New Heights in Orlando

The American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD®) proudly celebrated the successful conclusion of its 2026 Elevate Symposium, held July 2–5, 2026, at the beautiful Signia by Hilton Bonnet Creek Orlando. Bringing together nearly 600 floral professionals from more than 18 countries, 43 U.S. states, and the District of Columbia, this year’s Symposium was a vibrant celebration of artistry, education, innovation, and the global floral community.

For four unforgettable days, attendees immersed themselves in an inspiring program designed to challenge creativity and elevate their craft. Seven dynamic Main Stage presentations, engaging educational lectures, hands-on workshops, and countless networking opportunities created an atmosphere filled with inspiration, collaboration, and meaningful connections.

Internationally acclaimed designers from the United States, China, Brazil, the Netherlands, and South Korea captivated audiences by sharing innovative techniques, artistic perspectives, and the latest trends shaping the future of floral design. Throughout the Symposium, designers exchanged ideas, forged new friendships, and reaffirmed the shared passion that unites the floral industry around the world.

One of the most memorable moments of the Symposium was the annual Induction and Awards Celebration, where AIFD proudly welcomed 24 talented designers into the prestigious ranks of accredited AIFD members. Their achievement represents the highest standards of artistic excellence, technical mastery, and professional dedication.

The newest AIFD members are:

• Grace Alvarez AIFD, CFD – Colorado, USA
• Svetlana Bespalov AIFD, CFD – Virginia, USA
• Megan Brundrett AIFD, CFD – Texas, USA
• Megan Carollo AIFD, CFD – Arizona, USA
• Chi Wai (Florence) Chow AIFD, CFD – Hong Kong
• Marlene Delgado AIFD, CFD – California, USA
• Eddie Dooling AIFD, CFD – Florida, USA
• Mei Ling Fok AIFD, CFD – Hong Kong
• Andrea Fonseca Arguello AIFD, CFD – Santo Tomás, Heredia, Costa Rica
• Kim Haeran AIFD, CFD – South Korea
• Chung Hiu Mui AIFD, CFD – Hong Kong
• Chun Lau Lai AIFD, CFD – Hong Kong
• Joy Lott AIFD, CFD – Pennsylvania, USA
• Shukuko Miyake AIFD, CFD – California, USA
• Wendy Osburn AIFD, CFD – Texas, USA
• Jie Ying (Shirley) Ou AIFD, CFD – China
• Jiae Seo AIFD, CFD – South Korea
• William (Liam) Sloan AIFD, CFD – Pennsylvania, USA
• Man Ying So AIFD, CFD – Hong Kong
• Keith Sprewer AIFD, CFD – Illinois, USA
• Daniela Vazquez Mondragon AIFD, CFD – Mexico
• Siwen Wang AIFD, CFD – California, USA
• Skylar Wyman AIFD, CFD – Idaho, USA
• Mung Ying Yeung AIFD, CFD – Hong Kong

The celebration continued as AIFD honored exceptional individuals and organizations whose leadership, creativity, and unwavering commitment have helped shape both the Institute and the floral industry. Their contributions continue to inspire future generations of floral artists.

2026 AIFD Award Recipients

• Award of Distinguished Service to AIFD: Janet Black AIFD, CFD
• Award of Distinguished Service to the Floral Industry: Rocio Silva AIFD, CFD
• AIFD Award of Design Influence: Jim Marvin AIFD, CFD
• Award of Merit – Industry: American Grown
• Special Award of Recognition: Loann Burke AIFD, CFD

From breathtaking floral presentations and world-class education to heartfelt celebrations and lasting friendships, the 2026 Elevate Symposium exemplified the spirit of AIFD. It was a powerful reminder that when passionate floral artists come together, they don’t just create beautiful designs—they inspire one another, strengthen the profession, and elevate the future of floral design worldwide.

As the excitement of Elevate comes to a close, AIFD is already looking ahead to its next extraordinary gathering. The 2027 AIFD National Symposium, Innovation Express, will take place July 11–14, 2027, in St. Louis, Missouri. Floral professionals from around the world are invited to join AIFD for another unforgettable journey of education, inspiration, creativity, and connection.

Far more than an ordinary flower show, the Elevate Symposium showcased a spectacular lineup of world-renowned industry educators. Elevate Symposium had inspiring main stage programs, dynamic hands-on workshops, insightful lecture sessions, and so much more.

Official Symposium Brochure