In celebration of CalFlowers’ 85th anniversary, the event will feature the theme “A Legacy in Bloom – 85 Years of Floral Excellence,” highlighting the history, creativity, and future of the floral industry.

In a continued effort to support accessibility and connection across the floral supply chain, CalFlowers also confirmed that registration and exhibit pricing will remain unchanged from 2024, allowing members and industry partners to incorporate costs into their 2026 budgets with confidence.

“Holding pricing steady for 2026 reflects our commitment to making Fun ’N Sun welcoming and accessible to everyone in the floral community,” said Lane DeVries. “As we celebrate 85 years as an association, we want growers, wholesalers, retailers, designers, educators, and partners to come together and experience this milestone event without the barrier of rising costs.”

Fun ’N Sun 2026 will offer a dynamic lineup of programming, including:

Exclusive Industry Tours

• Guided tours of The Original Los Angeles Flower Market and The Southern California Flower Market, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at daily operations, product diversity, and the rich history of the floral district.
• An exclusive tour of Fiesta Productions, Inc., where attendees will see firsthand the creativity, engineering, and floral artistry behind Pasadena’s world-famous Rose Parade floats.

Educational Opportunities

Fun ’N Sun 2026 will feature refreshed and expanded educational programs designed to inspire, inform, and support professionals across all segments of the floral industry. Attendees can expect a mix of expert-led presentations, engaging discussions, and interactive learning experiences tailored to current and emerging needs within the floral community. Specific sessions and speakers will be announced as they are confirmed.

Registration Pricing (Unchanged From 2024)

• Early Bird: $795
• Regular: $895
• On-Site: $995
  Registration will open Mid-April 2026

Exhibitor Pricing (Also Unchanged From 2024)

• Single Booth: $1,750
• Double Booth: $2,600
• Tabletop: $975
  Booth registration opens January 21, 2026

Hotel Room Block

• $299 plus tax, resort fee and parking
  Room block will open Mid-April 2026

AIFD Design Team Returns

CalFlowers is thrilled to welcome back the 2024 AIFD design team, led by Susan Ayala, whose artistry will shape the look and feel of this landmark celebration.

“The 85th anniversary is an extraordinary moment for our association,” said Robin van der Schaaf, CalFlowers Vice Chair. “Fun ’N Sun 2026 will honor our past, elevate the present, and inspire the future of floral artistry and collaboration.”

About CalFlowers

CalFlowers is one of the leading floral trade associations in the United States, dedicated to strengthening the floral industry through advocacy, education, transportation solutions, and community building. With members across the country, CalFlowers continues to champion its mission: More Americans Enjoying More Flowers More Often.

Mickey brings decades of leadership experience in branded products, operations, and strategic growth. He joins Smithers-Oasis from Schumacher Electric in Dallas, Texas, where he served as Chief Executive Officer for the past four and a half years. Before that, Mickey spent 18 years with MTD Products in Cleveland, Ohio, holding key leadership roles including Vice President of the Aftermarket and eCommerce Division and President of the Handheld Products Division.

With a strong background in designing, manufacturing, marketing, and selling branded products through diverse channels, Mickey is well-positioned to lead Smithers-Oasis in its mission to serve the floral industry. His experience in driving operational efficiencies and implementing change for rapid, sustainable growth aligns perfectly with the company’s vision to empower floral professionals and serve our customers.

“It’s a privilege to be joining such a special industry, and I’m honored to become part of the Smithers-Oasis team,” said Mickey Leech. “The company’s commitment to innovation and supporting floral professionals inspires me, and I look forward to helping our customers create solutions to help celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.”

Robin Kilbride, President and CEO of Smithers-Oasis, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Mickey to Smithers-Oasis. His proven leadership and expertise in building strong brands and driving growth will be instrumental as we continue to innovate and strengthen the floral industry. Mickey shares our commitment to supporting floral professionals and delivering products that make a difference.” 

Mickey earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from John Carroll University and a Master of Business Administration from Case Western Reserve University. Originally from Northeast Ohio, he is eager to return to the region and contribute to the growth of Smithers-Oasis and the floral industry at large.

Mickey succeeds Anne M. Stewart, who will retire at the end of January after 11 years of dedicated service to Smithers-Oasis. 

This unforgettable experience showcases the lush beauty and cultural depth of the islands, offering an evocative journey through tropical blooms, iconic lei-inspired compositions, and floral designs infused with the textures, colors, and rhythms of island life.

Why IPM ESSEN 2026 Is the Perfect Stage

IPM ESSEN is the central meeting point for the entire “green” sector. In 2026, the fair is expected to showcase approximately 1,400 exhibitors from over 45 countries, representing the full horticultural value chain. An expected 40,000 attendees will experience international plant diversity, new cultivars, trend-setting floral design showcases, live demonstrations, competitions, and forward-looking forums.

As a stage where creativity, commerce, and culture intersect, IPM ESSEN 2026 provides the perfect backdrop for The Spirit of Aloha — a celebration of Hawaiian floral excellence presented to a worldwide audience.

An Artistic Tribute: Hawai‘i Meets Global Floriculture

Björn Kroner, acclaimed TV personality and floral expert, serves as our local German host & warmly welcomes Hawaiian designer Sue Tabbal-Yamaguchi & Canadian tropical flower ambassador, Brenna Quan, to the renowned IPM revolving stage, providing a platform to showcase the beauty and culture of the Hawaiian Islands. The Spirit of Aloha blends cultural storytelling, performance, and high-level floral artistry. The presentation highlights:

• Floral compositions inspired by Hawaiian lei
• Designs capturing the colors and rhythms of island life with unique styling
• A narrative journey tracing some of Hawai‘i’s floral history
• Expressions of heritage, innovation, and aloha spirit!

The Spirit of Aloha is more than a performance — it is a celebration of creativity, culture, and connection. Presented at one of the world’s most influential horticultural events, this showcase honors Hawai‘i’s floral legacy and invites global audiences to experience its beauty on an unforgettable stage.

A Family Legacy With Modern Leadership

Haveman shared the history of Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts, a shop established in the 1940s. After her mother spent decades running the business, Haveman and her brother stepped into leadership roles. She noted that their Marketer of the Year honor did not happen overnight; the team submitted the campaign four or five times before winning. Their persistence reflects a key lesson for floral professionals: strong marketing grows through iteration, dedication and belief in the work.

A Refillable Vase Program That Stood Out

“Our campaign that we won Marketer of the Year for was our refillable vase program,” Haveman said. Customers purchase a petite vase and can bring it in weekly for free flowers. The program is built around intentional design choices — small vessels, narrow necks and controlled stem counts. What began as a one-off idea inspired by her mother’s birthday tradition evolved into a complete system featuring programs such as Magic Vase, Tidbit, Gift of the Seasons, Queen of Hearts, Magic Mama and Scatter Joy. The model is sustainable, loyalty-driven and adaptable for flower shops of all sizes.

Free Flowers, Smart Tracking and Real ROI

Though rooted in generosity, the program is supported by strong operational discipline. Staff log each refill through the point-of-sale system using phone numbers and refill codes, allowing the shop to track visits, measure conversions and see which refills lead to purchases. When the team added meaningful coupons — especially those tied to popular gift shop items — conversion rates increased significantly. Haveman’s approach shows that “free” can still be profitable when paired with smart backend tracking.

Growth Through Listening and Adjustment

The refillable program began modestly. For Lori’s birthday, customers who shopped that day received a small vase as a gift. “We continue to just listen and go off feedback and make life easier for ourselves,” Haveman said. Customer insights drove strategic changes, such as extending programs into January, creating seasonal versions for snowbirds and refining vase designs for ease of production. The evolution underscores how customer-led adjustments can shape sustainable, high-impact marketing ideas.

Loyalty, Emotion and Community

Some of the most meaningful stories came from customers who incorporated their refillable vases into personal moments. Haveman recalled families bringing in their mother’s Magic Vase to use in funeral flowers because of its significance. “It’s definitely built loyalty and community,” she said. Beyond sales, the program has become woven into customers’ lives. Haveman believes the future of floral marketing lies in systems that honor emotion — such as subscriptions, standing orders and the thoughtful use of new visual technologies like AI.

Closing Thoughts

Sahid closed the conversation by recognizing Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts for its creativity, discipline and dedication to community connection. The SAF Marketer of the Year Award reflects a team effort built on consistency, clear systems and heartfelt service. For floral professionals, the shop’s success is a reminder that when creativity aligns with process, it can produce marketing that lasts.

Upcoming Shows

Dec. 18, 2025, 1 p.m. EST
The Penny and Ace Show Holiday Special: Deck the Blooms – Holiday Design Trends That Spark Joy

Dec. 19, 2025, 1 p.m. EST
The Bloom Show Correspondent: Tim Huckabee | Episode 4 – Customer Service Moves That Boost Sales

A Message to the Community

At New Bloom Media, the mission is to share knowledge, uplift one another and celebrate the creativity that drives the floral industry forward. Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts’ Marketer of the Year achievement reflects that spirit — a testament to teamwork, consistency and the power of serving customers with sincerity and structure.

Whether you grow, design, distribute, retail or educate, you play a vital role in the floral ecosystem. Each idea, initiative and act of generosity strengthens the industry. New Bloom Media encourages the community to keep exploring new systems, listening to customers and building marketing that connects people to flowers in deeper, more joyful ways.

“Just Add Flowers” is the second major national campaign from That Flower Feeling and builds on a proven model that has already delivered measurable gains in everyday floral sales in test markets. Backed by floral industry stakeholders, the campaign is being rolled out across digital and audio channels where the core 25–55 U.S. consumer audience spends time, including Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and YouTube.

To help the floral industry plug into this momentum, That Flower Feeling has created a Just Add Flowers toolkit featuring ready-made assets that carry through the same approachable, lifestyle-driven tone and visuals as the consumer campaign. The toolkit includes posters, in-store signage, and social media graphics and copy that florists, wholesalers, importers, and mass-market retailers can use to echo the national message in their own channels. The goal is to make it easy for any U.S. floral business—regardless of size or in-house marketing capacity—to invite consumers to “Just Add Flowers” more often.  

How to Access the Toolkit

• Visit: https://thatflowerfeeling.org/marketing-assets/
• If you haven’t already, register to access our assets.
• Click “Just Add Flowers Marketing Assets.”
• From there, you can instantly download posters, social content, and campaign visuals and start inviting your customers to “Just Add Flowers” to their everyday lives—no special occasion required.

As “Just Add Flowers” rolls out nationwide, industry support is essential to maintain momentum and build on early success. Continued investment in the campaign’s marketing fund, paired with active use of the toolkit at the local level, will help keep flowers top of mind for U.S. consumers and drive long-term, non-holiday growth in floral sales across every segment of the supply chain. To learn more, visit www.thatflowerfeeling.org or email info@thatflowerfeeling.org.

According to Gifts & Decorative Accessories, “With more than four decades of vision and determination, Maxine Burton has built burton + BURTON into a global leader in balloons, floral  supplies, and giftware.” The publication praised her “hands-on and heartfelt” leadership and  her ability to “nurture a company culture centered on creativity, family, and excellence.” 

“Maxine has great vision for the industry, and her knowledge translates to continually driving  company sales and profit,” said Dan Peecher of burton + BURTON. Beyond her business  success, Maxine is deeply committed to philanthropy and community engagement, fostering a  culture of generosity and innovation within her company and beyond. 

The Women of Influence list highlights those shaping the future of the gift industry through  their accomplishments and mentorship. Maxine’s recognition underscores her ongoing  dedication to innovation and leadership in the field. 

About burton + BURTON Founded in 1982, burton + BURTON® is a family-owned and -operated business that has grown into the  largest wholesale distributor of balloons and coordinating gift products in the world. In addition to its  showroom at the corporate headquarters in Bogart, Georgia, the company also maintains permanent showrooms at AmericasMart® Atlanta and Dallas Market Center^SM.

Leadership Transition and Board Updates

Seed Your Future extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Ronda Hamm, who has served as Board President since 2023. During her tenure, Dr. Hamm championed national partnerships, strengthened engagement with educators, and supported SYF’s strategic expansion to address the horticulture industry’s critical workforce needs. Her leadership helped position the organization for continued national impact.

Succeeding her is Broch Martindale, National Nursery & Greenhouse Strategic Account Manager at Corteva Agriscience, who was unanimously elected as the new Board President. Martindale has been an active member of SYF’s Advisory Council for three years and a vocal advocate for workforce development across the industry. His long-standing commitment to elevating horticulture careers underscores his vision for SYF’s next chapter.

Seed Your Future also welcomes Mari Carasquillo, Vice President of Marketing at Costa Farms, as a new member of the Board of Directors. Carasquillo brings extensive experience in consumer marketing, brand building, and audience engagement – expertise that will support SYF’s goal of raising national awareness of careers working with plants.

Seed Your Future also extends its appreciation to Dr. Charlie Hall and Rodd Moesel, who have completed their terms on the Board of Directors. Their leadership, expertise, and long-standing support have helped advance SYF’s mission to strengthen the future horticulture workforce.

New 2026 Committee Appointments In support of the organization’s growing national initiatives, Seed Your Future is pleased to announce the following volunteers who will join SYF committees beginning January 2026:

• Andrew Gurka, Director of Student Programs, Longwood Gardens 
• Jordan Richardson, Member Engagement & Communications Manager, CalFlowers 
• Sarita Cantu, Marketing Manager, Smith Gardens 
• Lauren Brown, Assistant Head Grower, Smith Gardens
• Sarah Morales, Steward, GreenWeaver Landscapes – Sustainable Landscapes 
• Ella Davis, Horticulture & Marketing Comms Graduate, University of Wisconsin-River Falls 

These individuals bring expertise across education, communications, growing operations, sustainability, and public engagement – strengthening the committees that guide SYF programs, outreach, and industry partnerships.

Executive Director’s Statement “We are thrilled to welcome Broch, Mari, and our incoming committee volunteers at such a pivotal time for Seed Your Future,” said Jazmin Albarran, Executive Director of Seed Your Future. “Their collective experience and passion for developing the next generation of plant professionals will help us broaden our reach, deepen our impact, and continue addressing the workforce gap facing the horticulture industry.”

About Seed Your Future

Seed Your Future is the movement to promote horticulture and inspire people to pursue careers working with plants. We envision a world where everyone understands the power of plants and is aware of the promising careers in the art, science, technology, and business of horticulture. For more information, visit seedyourfuture.org To learn more about Seed Your Future and to make a donation, please visit Donate – Seed Your Future

The 2026 Rose Parade carries the theme “The Magic in Teamwork,” celebrating the power of collaboration and collective achievement. This year’s festivities will be led by Grand Marshal Magic Johnson, whose legacy on and off the court exemplifies the spirit of this theme.

FTD has been the Official Floral Partner of the Tournament of Roses® for more than 70 years, proudly designing and decorating the antique automobiles that carry Rose Parade VIPs—including the Grand Marshal—down Colorado Boulevard. FTD is also the Sponsor of the Rose Parade Float Awards, honoring excellence in float design and presentation, and a Supporting Sponsor of the Float Decorating Experience, which welcomes thousands of guests each year to see float artistry up close.

The Everyone “Likes” a Parade Sweepstakes was open exclusively to FTD Florists across North America.

About FTD
FTD has been connecting people through flowers since 1910. As one of the largest floral networks in the world, FTD supports thousands of florists with innovative technology, quality products, and trusted services. With a legacy built on excellence and tradition, FTD continues to help florists thrive and deliver meaningful moments across the globe.

2025 Highlights:

Research Programs

• Over $750,000 awarded to support 20 research projects focusing on pest management, disease control, post-production, technology, and more

Scholarship & Internship Programs

• 40 Students awarded scholarships and internships ($139,500+) to help build the next generation of floriculture and horticulture professionals

Grant Programs

• 24 Organizations awarded educational grants totaling over $100,000, supporting education, new programs, floral design, and young  professionals development 
• 5 Travel grants awarded to retail florists continuing their education

Additional Highlights

• The Sustainabloom program continues to grow through 20+ SustainaGuides, industry spotlights, news, and resources on sustainability within the floral industry 
• Over 20 free educational and training webinars through Grow Pro, Floral Marketing Fund, Young Professionals Council, Sustainabloom, and Thrips & Botrytis, presented by expert speakers
• Over 100 members in our Young Professionals Council, which fosters networking and professional growth for emerging leaders

While there’s much to celebrate, these accomplishments also highlight the growing demand for AFE’s vital support. Each year, many deserving students, the future leaders of the floral industry, go without the financial assistance they need. Meanwhile, important research and educational programs aimed at solving industry challenges remain underfunded.

This year alone, more than 120 students applied for scholarships or internships but were unable to receive support. Rising research costs also left 14 projects unfunded. Looking ahead, 38 new research proposals have already been submitted for 2026–2027 funding, focusing on priorities like pest and disease management, production, and new technologies.

With uncertainty around government and alternative funding, the commitment to sustaining these programs is stronger than ever—but AFE can’t do it without you. AFE extends its sincere thanks to the 2025 donors. The full list can be viewed here. Don’t see your name on the list? There’s still time to give! With continued support, AFE can broaden its impact and ensure no potential goes untapped.

During this holiday season, please consider including AFE in your year-end giving. And now, contributions can go even further! A generous donor has pledged $25,000 in matching funds, meaning every dollar donated will be matched two-to-one—tripling your impact. To take full advantage of this special opportunity, donations must be made by December 31st.

More than just a checklist, the template is an invitation to turn good intentions into measurable results. Florists can document their sustainability commitments, identify growth areas, and follow a suggested six-month timeline that supports continuous improvement, from planning and implementation to reflection and adjustment.

“The template was built with input from across the floral community. We listened to florists, gathered feedback from experts, and tested ideas with a real shop,” said Amanda Solliday, lead project researcher from NC State University. 

“The result is a living tool: one that grows with the industry and helps every business make progress at its own pace.”

The new resource is part of Sustainabloom’s growing suite of free educational tools that make sustainability attainable and rewarding for every segment of the floriculture industry. Future versions of the Sustainability Planning Template are already in development and will be tailored for additional industry segments.

The Sustainability Planning Template for Florists is now available for free download on the Sustainabloom website here.