Pure Inspiration - The Texas State Florists Association

The Bloomin’ Texan | March 2015 | 1

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Pure Inspiration Hitomi Gilliam AIFD


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4 THE TEXAS FLORAL EXPO COMMITTEE CHAIRS ANNOUNCED

6 HITOMI GILLIAM AIFD PURE INSPIRATION

8 SWEET BEGINNINGS 2015 TEXAS CUP COMPETITION

10 TSFA RECOGNIZES BLOOMNET — PLATINUM LEVEL TEXAS FLORAL EDUCATION UNDERWRITER

12 TEXAS FLORAL SHOWCASE TRAVELS TO TEMPLE LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER!

14

PIM VAN DEN AKKER

17 TSFA ... FLORESCENCE

Are you Inspired to be Determined? or…Are you Determined to be Inspired? Recently I received a note from a friend and fellow TSFA member complimenting me on my determination and saying that I inspired her. What she refers to as my “determination”, others might call my “stubbornness”! I was incredibly touched and it caused me to reflect on the exciting changes that are occurring within TSFA. Everyone has been so willing to help do their part to contribute to the continued success of this association and the floral industry.

I THANK EACH and EVERY ONE OF YOU! Our recent fantastic, first ever Texas Floral Showcase, along with the exciting changes made within TSFA over the last few months, led me to think that our association and the floral industry are BOTH INSPIRING and DETERMINED! Then the familiar, notorious quote from Calvin Coolidge kept echoing in my head…“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence.Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent.Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts.Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan ‘press on’ has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.” In the variety of sources I used to look up the definition of determination, there was one common word in each…PURPOSE. I found the same repetitious occurrence when I looked up the definition of inspiration. The common word was…STIMULATION. Determination attracts success as your focus pushes obstacles away. When you move through life with determination, inspiration and courage, success will have no other choice but to race to keep up with you. Inspiration is the initial thought...the idea. Determination is the action or follow through for that inspiration. A final thought… Take the time to reflect on those who have personally inspired you and then take action to go that extra mile by simply acknowledging and saying thank you!

The Bloomin’ TexanPresidentFrom the

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TEXAS STATE FLORISTS’ ASSOCIATIONP.O. Box 170760 | Austin, Texas 78717 | 512.834-0361 | FAX 512.834-2150 | 800.375-0361 | www.tsfa.org | E-mail: [email protected]

TSFA BOARDPresident Susan Weatherford

Immediate Past President Pam Fuller AAF TMFA First Vice President Norman Northen TMFA

Second Vice President Debbie Wright AAF TMFA Retail Directors

Elaine Carrell TMFA | Bruce McShan | Nicola Parker TMFA Wholesale Director Luke Harwell TMF

Grower Director Jimmy Klepac

STAFFExecutive Director | Bloomin’ Texan Editor | Dianna Nordman AAFAdministrative Assistant | Tanner Kudela Production | Barb DonovanCover Photograph Courtesy of Hitomi Gilliam AIFD2015-2016 TSFA BLOOMIN’ TEXAN EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARDAnnie Fentz-Smith | Dov E. Kupfer AIFD CFD | Robin Martinez AAF TMFA Lynn Lary McLean AAF AIFD PFCI TMF | Elaine Nevarez | Sandy Ramirez TMFA Bridget Weatherford

The Bloomin’ Texan USPS 304-350.is published monthly, except for July. $8 of the annual membership dues is applied toward a subscription to The Bloomin’ Texan. Located at 9004-C Anderson Mill Rd., Austin, TX 78729. Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and at additional mailing offices. Opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect official policy of the Texas State Florists’ Association. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Bloomin’ Texan, P.O. Box 170760, Austin, TX 78717.

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Texas, Please welcome and applaud your 2015 Texas Floral Expo Chairs!

BUSINESS PRESENTATIONS Pat Berry | Vickery Wholesale Greenhouse | Dallas DESIGN PRESENTATIONS Ted Bruehl AIFD PFCI | The Chocolate Rose | Irving HANDS ON EXPERIENCE AND INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS Norman Northen TMFA Precious Memories | Temple HITOMI GILLIAM HANDS ON DESIGN EXPERIENCE Susan Tate AIFD | Darlene’s Flower Shop | Houston

LOBBY DECOR Darryl Murchison | Darryl & Co. | Houston

NEW VARIETIES EXHIBIT Scherry Lindley TMF | Southern Floral Co. | Houston

PIM VAN DEN AKKER HANDS ON DESIGN EXPERIENCE Pat Shirley-Becker AIFD TMFA | PS Designs | Austin

PRODUCT GALLERY AND PRODUCT POWER PRESENTATIONS Nicola Parker TMFA | For All Occasions | Houston

PRODUCT PROCUREMENT DISTRIBUTION AND LOGISTICS Mary McCarthy AIFD TMFA | The Blooming Idea | The Woodlands

STARS OF TEXAS EVENT Debbie Gordy AAF AIFD TMFA and Allen Masters | Compton’s Florist | LaPorte

TEXAS CUP COMPETITION Rebecca Sherman AIFD | The Blooming Idea | Spring TEXAS FLORAL EDUCATION UNDERWRITERS EVENT Stacy Mendenhall Lary’s Florist and Designs | Friendswood TSFA PAST PRESIDENT PRODUCT SALE Pam Fuller AAF TMFA | Bloomer’s Flower Shop | Harlingen Jimmy Klepac | Klepac Greenhouses, Inc. | Blanco Debbie Wright AAF TMFA | Enchanted Florist | Pasadena VIP FLOWERS Patricia Houck | House of Blooms | Sugar Land

The Texas Floral Expo Committee Chairs are Announced Texas Floral Expo Chair Gayle Johnson AAF TMFA, owner of g johnson’s Floral Images, is pleased to announce the Texas Floral Expo Committee Chairs that have agreed to join her in the production of the first Texas Floral Expo. “We are taking a new approach with these appointments” explained Johnson at a recent planning meeting. “With the new approach to education in Texas and the development of the Texas Floral Expo we wanted the entire state to be on board and involved. An incredible amount of thoughtful consideration went into these appointments for this prestigious event and we are grateful that each said YES!” “Gayle’s concept with this selection process was that the Texas Floral Expo would be more representative of the collaborative effort that developed the idea if those producing it came from the various areas of Texas” shared Texas Floral Events Coordinator Lynn Lary McLean AAF AIFD PFCI TMF with a group of Underwriters at a recent event. “To have the support of the very best in the industry and to be able to bring to Texas some of the world’s finest designers requires the absolute best in a committee. I think the Texas Floral Expo Chair has certainly accomplished that task with good judgment, great respect, and the excitement of many that are hoping to make a difference for TSFA.”

The Bloomin’ Texan | March 2015 | 5Making Texas educaTion Possible














PLATINUM

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SouthernFloralCompanyEstablished 1927

W H O L E S A L E G R E E N H O U S E

Past Presidents

please visit tsfa.org for the most up-to-date list of underwriters and their links


Hitomi Gilliam AIFD to present “PURE INSPIRATION” at the Texas Floral Expo

Texas Floral Education Partner and Gold Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter

Understanding What Inspires YouIt was an understanding of the importance of scientific academia to her family and of all that relates to her Japanese heritage along with a brief mention to her family that she might want to attend Art School that began the path of one of today’s leading designers of international acclaim. It was during those formative years as a result of a strong belief in education and her personal love of the arts that out of respect for her family she worked to find a way to combine the two. From that reflection came the idea of landscape architecture as a field of study to provide the basis of her education. Following graduation, a greenhouse was started and growing began. The need to expand opportunity led to the opening of a plant store. This led to a decision to carry a few cut flowers and thus the journey that many have had the privilege to be a part of began. To think that the thoughtful consideration of an educational goal combined with the decision to carry a few cut flowers in a plant store opened to this young woman a world that awaited her style and her expertise. Texas will welcome once again Hitomi Gilliam AIFD to present at the Texas Floral Expo. She continues to be pure inspiration to those she meets worldwide as she shares her love of this industry and her passion for flowers.

We recently had the opportunity to visit about her trip to Texas and the subject of her presentation and when asked, Hitomi in her soft and quiet manner shared what inspires her.

NATURE and an understanding of her roots is a primary area of inspiration. She has always looked to her Japanese heritage and the study of Ikebana. This design style embodies a true understanding of nature and is seen reflected in her work.

The study of ART in its many forms opens the creative process to unlimited opportunity. Hitomi’s understanding of sculpture as an art form has provided a pivotal point in that in sculpture she sees a vessel and with an opening an opportunity for flowers.

ARCHITECTURE provides a platform of study with strong, grounded inspiration in that it is about building and about construction.

FASHION as a point of inspiration dresses the design. In discussing this inspiration Hitomi shares that “First you must build a core construction and then, you can dress it up with flowers!”

What INSPIRES you? Begin thinking now and bring your own thoughtful consideration with you to Sugar Land, Texas as you share July 17-20 with all the best at the Texas Floral Expo.

Pure InspirationHitomi Gilliam AIFD


The Business of FlowersAs designers we often feel that the

business of flowers is the job for someone else. Our creativity takes us above the need to understand

elements outside of the design room. We invite you to take a look at what one of the world’s most

creative thinkers feels about the business of flowers!

There is no end to learning. Always look to be your best self. Not a day should go by that you do not learn something new.

The world of floristry is changing. Reach out into that world of change and change with it. There is something new developed everyday. Look to each day with the expectation of a new idea.

Seek out the new varieties of flowers. Be aware of all that is available. By offering something new and fresh, your business remains new and fresh!

Seek knowledge. Develop a skill set that adds respect to our profession. Do your part to make the floral industry vital to those around you. If YOU succeed so will the Business of Flowers!

Hitomi Gilliam AIFDEducation SpecialistFreelance DesignerVancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Hitomi Gilliam AIFD is a floral artist and an educator, who is committed to raising the level of professionalism and creativity within the floral industry. She loves sharing her talent and progressive ideas to help florists become more fashionable and trendy.

Hitomi is a member of American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) and is one of only seven recipients of AIFD’s prestigious Design Influence Award. She is a regular columnist for Flowers& magazine. “Creative Edge” presents to the readers three options to approach the monthly featured design category. She is a distinguished educator and lecturer world-wide, and has given presentations at many notable venues, art museums and botanical gardens.

In 2006, Hitomi was the recipient of the American Horticultural Society’s Frances Poetker Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions as designer, author and lecturer to the art and science of American horticulture. In 2008, she won ‘Gold’ and ‘Best of show’ by invitation only international entry at Singapore Garden Festival. She has authored 7 books to date, including ‘A Fresh Look at Judging’ that was released in July 2014.

Hitomi is a member of Teleflora’s prestigious team of Education Specialists.


Take a moment and stop and think about where can you go to see up to twenty of the top Texas floral designers... where can you sit and relax with friends sharing wedding stories and industry news while you view up to twenty wedding bouquets featuring the latest styles...

Where can you see up to twenty tablescapes that will help fill your idea portfolio for quite some time as you begin to prepare for your next bridal appointment...and then see a surprise situation unfold that may reflect a wedding situation that any one of us may have been in the middle of?

This and more will be available for your viewing pleasure at the Texas Cup Competition when Rich Salvaggio AAF AIFD PFCI presents “Sweet Beginnings”. “It seems only appropriate with being in Sugar Land that we start off the weekend with something sweet”, expressed Texas Floral Expo Chair Gayle Johnson AAF TMFA at a recent planning meting. To center the Texas Cup Competition around floral styles for weddings will open the creative process to so many new ideas.To have Rich Salvaggio join us to present makes it even that more perfect!”

Texas Floral Education Partner and Gold Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter Teleflora supports this evening of education. Texas thanks you for all you do for the florists of Texas.

“The celebrations filled with flowers that surround the wedding are the “Sweet Beginnings” so it just could not be a more perfect theme for the evening and for those who decide to enter the Texas Cup Competition!” added Texas Cup Chair Rebecca Sherman AIFD. The former Texas Cup winner is thrilled to share all that will fill the evening with excitement and invite designers to visit tsfa.org for all of the details related to these shared highlights!

Prior to the actual program the competitors will create two designs for later presentation. Competitors will be provided all that they need from TSFA to be able to design the Bridal Bouquet. This will make it quite interesting to see the several interpretations when they are modeled as part of the program.

The Interpretative Design Category, this year, will reflect a design suitably creative for a sixty inch table where guests at a wedding would be seated for a dinner reception. The competitor will design a container or prop to set the base of the design according to rules of the competition. The table linen, flowers, and supplies as well as other creative elements will be provided by TSFA for this category. The completed designs will be presented on the tables for viewing and commentary during the presentation.

There is simply not a wedding florist around that has not experienced a “surprise situation” that adds to the excitement and thrill of being an event planner, wedding specialist, or wedding floral designer!!!! This should be quite fun to see how up to twenty designers solve, in flowers, the Surprise Situation that they are presented. Envelopes Please!!!!!

Mark your calendars July 17 - 20 and plan to be a part of the “Sweet Beginnings” that will lead to a weekend filled with floral magic and the announcement of the

2015 Texas Cup Winner!!!

THE 2015 TEXAS CUP

COMPETITION WILL BE THE “Sweet Beginnings” OF THE

TEXAS FLORAL EXPO

BE PART OF THE TEXAS CUP

Share a wedding design concept for the Contestant

Surprise Situation.If your entry is selected, you will be chosen to introduce the Surprise Situation to the

competitors on July 17th.Email your Surprise Situation

to [email protected].

TO ENTER THIS PRESTIGIOUS

COMPETITION

Visit tsfa.org for the complete rules and the details related

to the 2015 Texas Cup Competition. Download

the Entry form and mail the completed form with the

entry fee to the Texas State Florists’ Association, PO Box 170760, Austin, TX 78717 or email the form to txsfa@

sbcglobal.net.

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Marketing To A Social WorldTexas Floral Education Partner and Gold Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter Flower Shop Network It is interesting how opportunity presents itself and when an idea is sparked! For those attending the TSFA 100th celebration, you may recall, the many questions asked of Chris White during his presentation. The majority of the questions were not about flowers but instead about photography and making the most of Social Media. The organizers for the Texas Floral Expo knew very quickly what one of the Expo presentations needed to be! In this interactive demonstration, the tips to build your online presence and market your brand to the modern consumer will be shared as you actively participate and create the platforms to be successful. Join Texas Floral Education Partner and Gold Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter Flower Shop Network for this not to be missed event on Friday afternoon, July 17th! Social Media Expert, Ashley DeFranco, will present this Interactive Demonstration sharing how being the best in the world of Social Media is done in the real world while sharing easy tips and techniques to get you to the level you want to be! Whether it be developing a Pinterest Board to reflect a Bride’s style so that you are ready for your wedding appointment or sharing your message with posts and tweets, this presentation will provide you what you need to market to a social world! Thank You Flower Shop Network for this new approach to programming!!!

Texas Floral Product Partner and Gold Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter Pike’s Peak of Texas Texas has long been able to count on the provision of exquisite flowers from Pike’s Peak of Texas and this year, it will be no different. How fortunate we are to have some of the best flowers in the world to work with. To have this level of support from Pike’s Peak of Texas truly takes the educational programming to another level in that the amount of product needed is abundant. In order for the Texas Floral Expo to offer this level of programming, to those attending at the affordable price at which it is offered, is to put it quite simply, because of companies such as Pike’s Peak of Texas. Texas thanks Pike’s Peak of Texas for this support and encourages all who attend to remember the beauty of these flowers as you plan to purchase what you need!

The Sweet Smell of SuccessTexas Floral Education Partner and Gold Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter Rio Roses Roses will be blooming on Sunday afternoon at the Texas Floral Expo. You will enjoy the fragrance of “The Sweet Smell of Success” as Texas Floral Education Partner and Gold Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter Rio Roses shares the most up to date information to help you grow your rose business. Roses, as confirmed by reports from the Society of American Florists, are the number 1 flower sold in the United States and this presentation will layout the information needed to make the most of that opportunity. Leading the ranks based on stem counts, roses lead the way with standard carnations, pompom chrysanthemums, alstroemeria, tulips, lilies, and mini-carnations following in line. “From the beginning of the discussions, when Lynn Lary McLean, Texas Floral Events Coordinator, presented the idea of becoming a Texas Floral Education Underwriter with Rio Roses President and CEO Victor Giorgini he expressed that at whatever level Rio selected they would be on board 100%. This has held true in everything we have asked of them and for this we are so grateful. To have someone believe in an idea as Rio has done offers a level of support far beyond the monetary expenditure” shared Texas Floral Events Coordinator Lynn Lary McLean at a recent Texas Floral Expo planning meeting.

Texas Floral Education Partner and Gold Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter Teleflora Teleflora supports the new approach to floral education in Texas. It is evident that Teleflora’s longtime belief in the importance of providing education to the florists of Texas has only strengthened with the new platform. As a Gold Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter and Texas Floral Education Partner in three events at the Texas Floral Expo, the level of education being provided is unprecedented. Vice President of Industry Relations and Publications and former recipient of the TSFA Lifetime Achievement Award Rich Salvaggio AAF AIFD PFCI will open the Texas Floral Expo as he presents “Sweet Beginnings” and the Texas Cup Competition. Texas is thrilled to welcome Hitomi Gilliam AIFD. The award winning Internationally acclaimed designer will present “Pure Inspiration” on Saturday of the Expo and a Hands On Design Experience late Sunday afternoon. The Expo Experience is enhanced because of these events and we thank Teleflora for this level of participation.

Gold Level Texas Floral Underwriters offer Additional Support to the Texas Floral Expo


Where did the idea come from to start BloomNet?BloomNet was spawned from the need for an alternative to the traditional larger wire services with a clear focus on quality throughout the floral transaction, while providing a host of competitive services to assist the retail florist in their business needs.

What features cause BloomNet to stand out above the competition? What makes BloomNet different from the rest?• Supporting the growth of the floral industry through Education and

Industry Excellence, Floriology Institute AIFD Pathway Provider• Business Management and E-Commerce Solutions• Tiered Membership Structure• The highest published rebates in the industry — earn $5 per order

TSFA recognizes PLATINUM LEVEL TEXAS FLORAL EDUCATION

UNDERWRITER


What is the most important detail in your company’s mission statement that allows you to provide what you feel is important to this industry?BloomNet is committed to working side by side with our florists to foster industry education, build community and develop long term relationships built on trust, commitment and dependability.

What does BloomNet feel is the biggest challenge in the floral industry?Meeting the ever changing competitive landscape in satisfying floral consumer wants, needs and expectations. The flower buying consumer has many more opportunities to purchase gifts other than floral and when coupled with same day delivery from an increasing number of delivery providers, this creates a forbidding challenge for our industry.

What is BloomNet doing to assist with the challenge?We cannot stop companies like Amazon, Google, Deliv or Uber from entering our market, providing the same or different gifts and services, but we can ensure every order we design and deliver is of the highest quality, while exceeding the expectations of our consumers. BloomNet maintains a comprehensive quality score on all orders sent and received, as well as, the performance of all of our florists. This information is used to assist our florists in providing the very best service our customers expect.

What do you find today’s floral consumer is looking for?Value and superior customer service. Today’s consumer preference is a clean, monochromatic look for floral with the “less is more” attitude. The WOW factor attracts their attention.

In what way do you directly help those selling flowers today meet the need of the consumer?We listen to what today’s consumer needs are and implement them in our customer service model.

We all talk of changes in the floral industry. How will the changes in recent years shape the floral industry of the future? What is BloomNet doing to maintain the integrity of your customer? What is BloomNet doing to help shape a successful future?

Education is the backbone of the industry, particularly during challenging economic times. With the goal of building a foundation of excellence and to empower florists to reach their full potential, we offer Floriology Institute to assist the florists in expanding their artistic design talents and incorporating the most recent best business practices into the daily operation of their shops.

Marketing is an important area for any business. It is difficult, as a small business owner, to find the time. What services does BloomNet offer to help the small business compete in today’s marketplace?BloomNet offers BloomNet Commerce, the next generation e-commerce solution for today’s retail florist. Florists can increase average order value and boost profits with orders coming directly to you through your website.

Is there an important message you would like to share with TSFA readers?The Floral Industry is a wonderful business with hard working and dedicated artisans providing a truly unique handcrafted gift for any occasion. We have the opportunity to be an important part in many peoples lives, so the beauty of our industry should be celebrated, as this does not exist in any other business.

Why did BloomNet support TSFA’s new floral education direction?BloomNet is continually striving to improve and protect our future growth of the floral industry through ongoing participation with state associations and by encouraging members of the industry and others to take a more active role. TSFA is one of the largest, most respected state association with over 100 years in the industry and BloomNet is committed to TSFA and its future growth.


March 24, 2015Hilton Garden Inn Temple

1749 Scott Boulevard | Temple, TX 76504

6:00pm | Shop the Product Gallery and see all that is New!7:00pm | Dinner and Time to Interact with your Floral Friends7:30pm | uBloom.com Flower Expert J Schwanke will present 101 ideas to make your life in the design room a little easier!8:30pm | Product Gallery Shopping Design Auction to support the Texas Floral Endowment

Basics 101....Anything but Basic

Texas is taking 101 Design Ideas on the road that will make your life in the design room just a little easier. uBloom.com Floral Expert J Schwanke AAF AIFD PFCI TMF will show you how! What a perfect opportunity to learn and share incredible flower tips, tricks, and techniques that will help you the very next day in your flower business. Make YOUR BUSINESS more PROFITABLE, FASTER, EASIER and a whole lot more FUN. Join J Schwanke AAF AIFD PFCI TMF, the host of Fun with Flowers and JTV, as he shares his collection of essential tips, tricks and techniques gathered from throughout the flower industry.

SHOWCASE REGISTRATION

_____________________________________________Attendee Name

_____________________________________________Business Name

_____________________________________________Address

_____________________________________________Phone Email

$35 Registration IncludesDinner | Design Presentation

Product Gallery Shopping

Take 30% off Registration as a TSFA Member

$101 will be presented to one attendee at each Showcase!

_____ I am pre-registering for the March 24th Showcase in Temple. At the door registration will be an additional $10.

_____________________________________________Credit Card No.

_____________________________________________Expiration Code Zip Code

_____________________________________________Signature

Mail check to:Texas State Florists’ AssociationPO Box 170760 | Austin, TX 78717OR REGISTER ONLINE AT TSFA.ORG

Staying the night?There are $99 room rates at the Hilton Garden Inn-Temple. Call 254.773.0200 and ask for the TSFA group code to receive this reduced rate.

TMF Advanced students will receive one Credit towards their Texas Master Florist Advanced

Certification with attendance at a 2015 Texas Floral Showcase

Texas Floral Education and Product PartnersAcolyte Designs, Inc. | Chrysal Americas | Design Master | Greenleaf Wholesale Florists Priest International, Inc. | Rio Roses | Southern Floral Co | TSFA Growers Division

In addition to the overall support of the Texas Floral Education Underwriters these companies have partnered to travel with J and 101 Design Ideas:

Texas Thanks You for not only providing the product to make these ideas both profitable and fun to produce but also for the additional funding to bring these ideas to Harlingen, Temple, the Texas Floral Expo...and later in the fall to Lubbock.


“Fun with Flowers”…For Real!! Written by Sandy Ramirez TMFA, Bloomstreet, Wimberley, Texas Absolutely!!!! It was a beautiful January day in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, when the first ever Texas Floral Showcase premiered with a smashing success! Floral friends and family had lots of fun as they perused the product gallery while sipping wine and catching up on the latest and greatest in floral products. Members of Texas State Florists’ Association graciously hosted the tables as all settled in to a wonderful meal at beautifully appointed tables. What could make the evening more complete and FUN than “The Flower Expert” himself, J Schwanke AAF AIFD CFD PFCI TMF. J presented a fabulous program to a packed room. The program which was accurately named “ BASICS 101 …ANYTHING BUT BASIC” was filled with countless or in this case COUNTED tips and tricks to make our passion for floral design easier and yes, I’ll just say it again…FUN! J believes that sharing ideas from past generations is truly important in order not to loose them, thus the 101 idea program was born. J stated that “It gives me a chance to share A LOT in one night and I believe those ideas and tips will keep on giving...long after the program is over”. “Flowers should be FUN — and then we each add our own brand of creativity. It’s amazing to work with nature’s beauty and to have the opportunity to turn feelings into flowers…It’s important to remove the fear and replace it with FUN!” So remove the fear he did! Before long, the beauty of giggles and laughter could be heard. Whispers of agreement and wonder as J reminded us of old tricks and showed us some new ones as well. J’s goal and that of Texas State Florists’ Association is the same. It is to make us BETTER, STRONGER, to LAUGH LONGER and to simply ENJOY FLOWERS through events like this one and in our everyday lives. Texas is a BIG State and TSFA is dedicated to reaching out to everyone by bringing the Showcases to their area. Education is important and TSFA loves to support our floral education by offering us the best. J is one of our Best. We thank TSFA and we thank J for making our love and passion of all things “flowers” just plain FUN!

A TEXAS SIZE THANK YOU TO ALL WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THE SUCCESS OF THE FIRST TEXAS FLORAL SHOWCASE IN HARLINGEN, TEXAS

With three times the expected attendance the new approach to floral education in Texas is on the road due to the support of these individuals and companies.

Texas Floral Education and Product PartnersAcolyte Designs, Inc | Chrysal Americas | Design Master | Greenleaf Wholesale Florists

Priest International, Inc. | Rio Roses | Southern Floral Co. | Texas Grower’s Division

Texas Floral Product Sponsor The following companies provided product available through the Texas Floral Education Underwriters. In addition Texas Floral Education Partners Greenleaf Wholesale

Florists and Southern Floral Co. covered the freight expense of the floral product sent through their companies to the Rio Grande Valley. This additional effort is valued and appreciated.

Esprit Miami | KB Farms | FernTrust | The Sun Valley GroupResendiz Brothers | Alpha Fern | Oasis Floral Products | FloraCraft | Fitz Designs

The Local Committee and TSFA members provided grassroots support and contributed to the success of the first Texas Floral Showcase. It was under the TSFA presidency of Pam Fuller AAF TMFA that the initial idea of TSFA taking floral education on the road came about and thus only appropriate that the first stop be in the Rio Grande Valley. A shout out to Pam and all the girls at Bloomer’s Flower Shop in Harlingen for the Texas hospitality and all the work that was done to guarantee such perfection in an event. A special thank you to TSFA Past President and Texas Floral Expo Chair Gayle Johnson AAF TMFA for her help, design expertise and participation. TSFA Board members Nicola Parker TMFA and Elaine Carrell TMFA led the Grassroots effort which was reflected in the level of attendance and participation. Amy Neugebauer TMF and Sylvia Cantu created the buzz and encouraged attendance at this event. Their assistance along with dedicated TSFA member Sandy Ramirez TMFA made such a difference! Texas thanks you !!! “We thank you!” said TSFA President Susan Weatherford and Texas Floral Events Coordinator Lynn Lary McLean AAF AIFD PFCI TMF.

Texas Floral Events Coordinator Lynn Lary McLean AAF AIFD PFCI TMF and Designer J Schwanke AAF AIFD CFD PFCI TMF

Texas Floral Showcase goes International with attendance from Mexico and throughout the Rio Grande Valley

Texas Floral Showcase Chair Pam Fuller AAF TMFA awards $101 in prize money to Showcase attendee Josie Escalante, Floral Creations and Gifts, Weslaco, Texas

Special Thanks to the Texas Floral Showcase Product Gallery Participants Listed Below


Texas Floral EducationUnderwriter

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BloomNet

FlowerShop Network

Rio Roses

Southern Floral Co.

Zoom! Roses

AcolyteChrysal Americas

Greenleaf Wholesale FloristsPriest International Inc.


Pim van den Akker to present at the Texas Floral Expo

This internationally renowned floral designer is underwritten by Texas Floral Education Partner and Platinum Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter














Photo credit: www.pimvandenakker.com www.flowerfactor.com

”Making every day’s life extraordinary”

T he teaching

methods of Pim

van den Akker

are well known throughout

the floral world. He will

share his thoughts and

these methods at the Texas

Floral Expo on Saturday,

July 18th in a presentation

to enlighten all who attend.

“Making every day’s life

extraordinary” will expand

the creative process as

van den Akker shares his

journey. In his words,

“There is a story behind all

of this which is a story thick

with passion and pleasure. It

is a story best told together

by each in his own way, but

always with a shared vision,

always wanting our sector

to sparkle and letting the

world around us experience

what true beauty is and

what floral beauty can do.”

“Reflections”


“Building and Growing Together”

“Classical Meets Future”

Texas Floral Expo extends to Monday, July 20th

Pim van den Akker to present an exclusive Hands On Design

Experience for a limited number of students on Monday, July 20th.

To study with a designer who has mastered his craft to the level

of van den Akker offers an opportunity to study new techniques

and an expanded vision of style. The complete information will be

available in April. To have the time to “reflect”, “to build and grow

together” and to observe “classical meet future” may just be one of

those once in a lifetime opportunities.

With appreciation to Texas Floral Education Floral Partner and Platinum Level Texas Floral Education Underwriter BloomNet for these educational opportunities.

Pim van den Akker


There are only four types of flowers in this design and yet the visual impact created with

the clustering of the blossoms into groups set a look that is truly in bloom. The extension of the

fern expands the design with added interest and texture. The featured hyacinths will fill the

room with fragrance. The clean stems simply presented completes the overall appeal of the

design. A number of basics uniquely presented.

A new twist on a traditional design, the fan shape expands the groupings of blossoms with an emphasis of color in the focal. The selection of one flower, the pink rose, is brilliant on the

basics in that it brings the eye to the heart of the design. The dominant color pink then expands

into the snapdragons carrying the eye through the expansion of

the arrangement.

Tied with a bow offers a detail to this clustered design with strong impact of color utilizing a technique in just a

little different way. We all know that the difference is in the details. Pay close attention to the several details in this

design. The orchid blossoms surrounding the stems to bring weight to the design and emphasize the impact of the orchid

grouping make such a difference. The elongated container adds to the brilliance. The container allows the design to

expand space creating visual value and anytime a designer can do this, the customers will keep coming back.

Support Your Advertisers!

Texas State Florists' Associations'94th Annual Convention and Trade Show

July 13-16, 2007Embassy Suites Hotel-Austin Downtown & The Palmer Events CenterPlease make your reservations soon as the room blockthe Texas State Florists' Association has held at theEmbassy will fill up. Telephone the Embassy at (800)362-2779, mention the Texas State Florists' Associationand receive a discounted rate of $119 king or $129 dou-ble. Discounted rates are guaranteed through June 21,2007 or until the TSFA room block is full.

The Bloomin’ Texan ◆ May 2007 / 13

A Wholesale Florist

Fresh flowers from around the world

(817) 457-9869theconnectionwholesaleflorist.com

AUSTIN

FORT WORTHAUSTIN

CORPUS CHRISTI

SAN ANGELO

WACO

Joel Paul ShirleyPresident

440 W BeauregardSan Angelo, TX 76903www.shirleyfloral.come-mail: [email protected]

Phone: 325 655-9111Fax: 325 653-8585

800 588-9111

Shirley Floral Company& Greenhouse

2105 HWY. 281 NORTHMARBLE FALLS, TX 78654

(830) 693-7006

109 N. MAINBURNET, TX 78611

(512) 756-4401

BURNET/MARBLE FALLS

FLOWER & GIFT SHOPS

BAYTOWN

SPECIALIZING INFLORAL EXCELLENCE

SHERIMONTGOMERY

WHITEAAF • TMFA

610 PARK STREETBAYTOWN, TX 77520281•427•7454888•538•7721

TSFA Order Exchange NetworkSupport Your Advertisers!

SAN ANTONIOABILENE

Gary NormanOwner

1800 Industrial - Abilene, TX 79602

Phone: (325) 695-7000 www.garysfloralgallery.com

Greg Waters

SAN ANTONIO

1-800-252-9145Fax 1-512-345-1336

Ken Freytag • TSFA Past Presidentwww.freytagsflorist.com

DALLAS

Design Smart…Find it Here

Texas State Florists' Associations'94th Annual Convention and Trade Show

July 13-16, 2007Embassy Suites Hotel-Austin Downtown & The Palmer Events CenterPlease make your reservations soon as the room blockthe Texas State Florists' Association has held at theEmbassy will fill up. Telephone the Embassy at (800)362-2779, mention the Texas State Florists' Associationand receive a discounted rate of $119 king or $129 dou-ble. Discounted rates are guaranteed through June 21,2007 or until the TSFA room block is full.

The Bloomin’ Texan ◆ May 2007 / 13

A Wholesale Florist

Fresh flowers from around the world

(817) 457-9869theconnectionwholesaleflorist.com

AUSTIN

FORT WORTHAUSTIN

CORPUS CHRISTI

SAN ANGELO

WACO

Joel Paul ShirleyPresident

440 W BeauregardSan Angelo, TX 76903www.shirleyfloral.come-mail: [email protected]

Phone: 325 655-9111Fax: 325 653-8585

800 588-9111

Shirley Floral Company& Greenhouse

2105 HWY. 281 NORTHMARBLE FALLS, TX 78654

(830) 693-7006

109 N. MAINBURNET, TX 78611

(512) 756-4401

BURNET/MARBLE FALLS

FLOWER & GIFT SHOPS

BAYTOWN

SPECIALIZING INFLORAL EXCELLENCE

SHERIMONTGOMERY

WHITEAAF • TMFA

610 PARK STREETBAYTOWN, TX 77520281•427•7454888•538•7721

TSFA Order Exchange NetworkSupport Your Advertisers!

SAN ANTONIOABILENE

Gary NormanOwner

1800 Industrial - Abilene, TX 79602

Phone: (325) 695-7000 www.garysfloralgallery.com

Greg Waters

SAN ANTONIO

1-800-252-9145Fax 1-512-345-1336

Ken Freytag • TSFA Past Presidentwww.freytagsflorist.com

DALLAS

Design Smart…Find it Here

Est. 1935401 WEST 20TH STREETHOUSTON, TEXAS 77008 713.862.8811

800.723.3252fax 713.864.2686

www.heightsfloralshop.com

CORPUS CHRISTI

AUSTIN

HOUSTON

DALLAS

800-McShan McShanFlorist.com

214-324-2481

Proudly Serving The Metroplex Since 1948

DALLAS

Brilliant…on the BasicsWe thank TSFA member Charles Ingram and the design staff at Dr Delphinium Designs & Events in Dallas, Texas for sharing their creative approach to the “fine art of flowers”. Take the time to study these ideas in that each is quite brilliant on the basics!

4 Surprising Facts about Pinterest: 1. According to comScore, Pinterest users spend

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2. Pinterest receives an estimated 85,500,000 unique visitors in one month.

3. 81% of U.S. women online trust Pinterest as a source for information and advice, compared with

Facebook and Twitter who lag behind at 67% and 73% respectively. 4. By 2016, 41% of U.S. women are projected to be on Pinterest.

If you have not yet begun to build a community on Pinterest, get pinning because your customers are already there!

For more information, contact [email protected]

SIMPLY Social


The purpose of a flower show is threefold: to set standards of artistic and horticultural excellence; to broaden

knowledge of horticulture, floral design, conservation, photography and other related areas; and to share

the beauty of a show with fellow club members and with the public.

Florescence is one of the largest competitive national flower shows sanctioned by the Garden Club of America in the United States, presented by The Garden Club of Houston, River Oaks Garden Club, and the Museum

of Fine Arts, Houston. Florescence will showcase floral and horticultural arrangements by garden club experts, renowned floral and garden designers, and other noted

personalities. Many of these flower arrangements will be interpretations of masterpieces from the Museum of Fine

Arts, Houston´s permanent collection.

Texas State Florists’ Association is honored to have four members selected to interpret these works of art.

We are pleased to announce these individuals and the masterpiece that each will interpret.

Mary McCarthy AIFD TMFAThe Blooming Idea Woodlands, Texas

Bacchante with Infant

Fredercik William MacMonnies,

Faun, c. 1893-1894, cast before

1920, bronze with greenish-black

patina, The Museum of Fine Arts,

Houston, museum purchase funded

by the Long Endowment for

American Art, 98.252

Maria Elisa Maxit Maxit Flower Design

Houston, Texas

The Last of the Tribes Hiram Powers,

1867-1874, marble, The

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston,

museum purchase with funds

provided by the Agnes Cullen

Arnold Endowment Fund,

2000.532

Rob Smith Events in Bloom Houston, Texas

Darryl MurchisonDarryl & Co.

Houston, Texas

Rising Sun Adolph Alexander Weinman,

1915, bronze, The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, gift of an

anonymous donor, 26.2

Descending Night Adolph Alexander Weinman, 1915, bronze,

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, gift of an

anonymous donor, 26.3

We anxiously aWaiT The PresenTaTion of These floral inTerPreTaTions.

each Will be shared in The June issue of The blooMin’ Texan.

You are invited to attend


Basil Holt was born on September 5, 1942 to Willie Lee and Charles Edgar Holt in Dallas, Texas. Named after his great-uncle on his mother’s side, he spent his early years growing up between his

parents’ house and his grandparents in Oak Cliff with his younger brother Lyndon. He graduated from Adamson High School, where many of his life-long friends also attended. Basil and, his first wife, Shelia had two children, Basil Jr. in 1962 and Robert in 1968. Basil’s parents founded Holt’s Florist in Dallas. Basil and his brother Lyndon worked in the flower shop as young men learning confidence and customer service skills in front and flower design in back. Both Basil and Lyndon had strong ties and board positions with the Texas State Florists’ Association and the West Texas New Mexico Florist Association. Both of these associations would provide a base for Basil’s professional career and strong bonds of friendship. From Holt’s Florist, Basil would launch his lifelong career in the floral industry. His mother Willie Lee was one of the first employee’s for start-up company American Floral Services (AFS) based out of Oklahoma City, founded by Herman Meinders. Basil would join American Floral Services a short time later as a salesman in California for the first year and would take over the region of Texas and surrounding states afterwards. Basil was very proud of his friendship with Herman and the two maintained a close relationship through Basil’s life. Three generations of Holt’s would eventually work at AFS. For his 33 years with AFS, Basil traveled extensively. Someone once remarked that Basil had visited every town in Texas at least once. It was not uncommon for Basil to be away for weeks at a time and he routinely drove 100,000+ miles a year. He achieved Salesman of the Year multiple times with AFS. Basil established many close friendships among his customers, co-workers, and sales peers from his time on the road. Basil is preceded in death by his brother, parents and grandparents. Basil is survived by his sons, Basil Jr. and Sheila Odom, Robert and his wife, Jennifer; granddaughter, April Holt Ramsey; his girlfriend, Jeanie Wilson, her daughter, Vicki Sicula and her husband, Steve and their children, Katie and Jack; Jeanie’s son, Michael Wilson and his wife, April and daughter, Shayla.

LaVon Bankhead, 82, of Houston, Texas passed away on January 7, 2015. She was born in Hearne, Texas on December 28, 1932. LaVon graduated from Jeff Davis High School in Houston, Texas in 1951.

After graduation, she went to work as a secretary for Fluor Corporation and met Paul Bankhead while working there. They were married in 1952. They had three children, Gary, Sherie, and Cindy. Being a mother and raising her children were her most treasured blessings. In 1953 she began to pursue her passion for flowers by joining the neighborhood garden club and was soon serving as president. She joined the Houston Federation of Garden Clubs where she held various offices and had the opportunity to serve as a nationally accredited flower show judge. Between 1964 and 1970, with her children in school, she worked her way up from a floral designer to a manager/buyer for retail florists. She worked during the day and read books at night on how to become a florist. In 1970, she opened Flower Elegance by LaVon and also became a member of Allied Florists of Houston and Texas State Florists’ Association the same week. She served in all positions in Allied Florists of Houston including president from 1974-1976. She was the editor of The Allied Florist magazine from 1998-2005. She also held all offices in Texas State Florists’ Association and served as president from 1985-1986. LaVon was the recipient of the Allied Florists’ of Houston Buddy Benz Award and the TSFA Achievement Award. In 1975, LaVon was selected to the first Teleflora Team and traveled the USA as a Teleflora commentator until 1989. LaVon was also a former chair of Professional Floral Communicators International and awarded the Tommy Bright Award for professionalism in commentating. She was a member of the American Institute of Floral Designers. Her love of flowers and desire to educate were evident to all she met along the way especially in the state of Texas. She enthusiastically enjoyed sharing time and experience with new florists always giving them encouragement to establish their niche in the floral industry. She will be remembered for her talent, generosity, knowledge, professionalism, and poise. Beyond flowers, her family brought her the greatest joy. LaVon is survived by her son, Gary Bankhead and grandsons, Cooper and Carter; her daughter, Sherie and son-in-law, Neil Aubuchon, granddaughter, Stacey and husband, Clay Malson, grandson, Kyle, and fiancé, Tracy Misner; daughter, Cindy, and grandson, Chad Millis, and wife, Haley, great-grandsons, Haden and Harrison, granddaughter, Haley Millis, and grandson, Chase Millis. She is also survived by her sister and best friend, Patsy Hopkins, sister, Diane Galick, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was loved by all and will be greatly missed.

I must have flowers, always and always.Claude Monet

Memorial contributions may be made to the Allied Florists of Houston Scholarship in Memory of LaVon Bankhead through the Texas Floral

Endowment, PO Box 170760, Austin, TX. 78717

LaVon Bankhead Basil K. Holt

In Memorium

2015 Texas Floral Endowment Scholarship

Applications Available at

TSFA.org


TSFA Calendar of Events

MARCH8 Daylight Savings Time Begins17 St. Patrick’s Day20 First Day of Spring22 AIFD South Central Design Forum, 8:30 - 4:00 PM, Pike’s Peak, Houston24 Texas Floral Showcase “Basics 101…Anything But Basic” uBloom.com Flower Expert J Schwanke AAF AIFD PFCI TMF Hilton Garden Inn-Temple 1749 Scott Blvd | Temple, Texas 76504 For registration information, see page 12 of this issue, online at tsfa.org or call 512.834.0361.28 Level 1 High School Floral Certification Testing, Manor ISD28 Wedding and Prom TRENDSPIRATION with master florist Jackie Lacey AIFD held at Dallas Design Supply. Featuring new floral products, visual how-to’s and audience participation. 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. No charge to attend. Lunch is available for purchase. RSVP to Dallas Design Supply 866.878.8778 or via Facebook.com/ DallasDesignSupply29 Palm Sunday

APRIL3 Good Friday4 Passover Begins5 Easter7 Level 1 High School Floral Certification Testing, Snyder, Texas14 Level 1 High School Floral Certification Testing, James Madison High School, San Antonio, TX15 TSFA Finance Committee Meeting Conference Call 3:00 pm18 Level 1 High School Floral Certification Testing, College Station High School, College Station, TX22 Administrative Professional Day25 “The Art of Bouquet Making” a hands-on

wedding class. Instructor J. Keith White AIFD. Held at the TSFA School of Floral Design, Houston, Texas. Go to tsfa.org for registration information.

TSFA AdvertisersInside Cover BloomNet | 866.256.6663

16 Freytag’s Florist | 800.252.9145 | www.freytagsflorist.com

16 Heights Floral Shop | 713.862.8811 | 800.723.3252 | www.heightsfloralshop.com

16 McShan Florist | 800.331.3349, ext. 7931 | www.mcshanflorist.com

Back Cover Teleflora | 800.421.2815 | www.myteleflora.com | 800.291.1061 | 512.834.0361

16 Tubbs of Flowers | 800.288.1978 | www.tubbsofflowers.com

16 Vast America | 800.383.3338 | www.vastamerica.com

MAY2 Level 1 High School Floral Certification Testing in two locations: Klein ISD Service Center, Klein, Texas and Skyline High School, Dallas Texas5 National Teacher Day10 Mother’s Day17 TSFA Board of Directors Meeting held at the TSFA School of Floral Design in Austin. 10:00 am25 Memorial Day (Observed)


cheer up with teleflora.

drop-shipping got you down?

myteleflora.com (800) 421-2815

When other floral companies are turning their backs on you, rest assured that we’ll always have yours. In fact, we are now the only major floral service that channels 100% of all orders to local florists. We’ve been a faithful partner for over 80 years, and we’ll continue to support you foryears to come. So smile—our future together is looking bright.

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Pure Inspiration - The Texas State Florists Association

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Transcript of Pure Inspiration - The Texas State Florists Association