The 2024 Society of American Florists (SAF) Convention, held at the stunning JW Turnberry, was a great event for Florist, Wholesalers, Growers, and floral industry professionals alike. This year’s convention was a showcase of education, collaboration, and networking opportunities in the world of flowers.
Floral Supplier Expo
The event started with a dynamic Supplier Expo where ‘The Fresh R US’ shopping experience took center stage. The creative minds & floral artists of Jet Fresh Flowers, including Olga Ramirez AIFD and Raquel Fernandez CFD, dazzled attendees with their giant Jet Fresh Flower Growers Rose Bouquet toy packs and a Fresh shopping cart. The shopping cart was overflowing with fresh finds available at Jet Fresh Flower Distributors, like Rosaflora Gerbs, and mums from Esmeralda. Fresh fans raved about Haus of Stems’ Zorchids and Aura leaves and the colors of Jet Fresh Hippy Psychedelic Roses.
Outstanding Varieties Competition
The Outstanding Varieties Competition was a major attraction, featuring over 220 floral varieties vying for top honors and attention. Among the standouts were two Blue Ribbon winners from Jet Fresh Flower Growers: Venturoso and Serende.
Check out the video featuring Mike’s top picks to see these award-winning blooms in all their glory.
Click here for a full list of Ribbon winners
SAF Panels and Educational Insights
The convention’s educational segments were outstanding, offering unparalleled insights into the floral industry. Dr. Charlie Hall provided valuable information on Economic and Buying Trends (be sure to catch Dr. Hall on the 2 Fat Guys Podcast). Notable panels featured industry leaders such as Jet Fresh’s head coach, Mike Black, Angelique Witcher of Accent Decor, and Lenny Walker of Kennicott, expertly moderated by Lori Wilson of Flower Clique.
Presentations from past podcast guests included Carlos Muina, Erin Bruno AAF, Corrine Heck, Cameron Pappas AAF, and Carlos Oramas. The main stage also showcased the Flower Trends Forecast, presented by Talmage McLaurin AIFD and Derek Woodruff AAF, AIFD, PFCI.
Click here for a full list of speakers
Click here for Educational Handouts
Celebrating Achievements
The Stars of the Industry Awards and Dinner was a highlight, marking Mike Black’s debut on the awards committee and Ryan’s achievement of earning his first letters, AAF. The event underscored the dedication and excellence within the floral community.
To close the convention, Jet Fresh Flowers sponsored a delicious lunch at Petal Productions. The lunch was catered by Jet Fresh friends, Mena Catering.
The 2nd Annual Blooms and Birdies Golf Tournament raised a generous donation for SAF advocacy efforts, wrapping up the week with a spirit of generosity and camaraderie.
Overall, the 2024 SAF Convention was a resounding success, celebrating the best of the floral industry.
For more updates and highlights from the SAF Convention check out our video recap below:
