2025 Great Lakes Floral & Event Expo
Ignite & Inspire:
Rekindle Your Floral Flame

Presenter:
Gina Thresher AIFD, CFD, EMC, IMF

Sponsored by BloomNet
Hands-On Workshop
Location: River Overlook A

This hands-on class will be focused on creating sustainable wedding bouquets. You’ll learn eco-friendly techniques and best practices. Gina will guide you through the process of creating beautiful bouquets while emphasizing sustainability.

Participants will explore various design styles while focusing on minimizing environmental impact. 

* Additional Fees Apply, Bring Your Tools. 

Presenter:
Grace Morrow CF

Presenter:
Kymbra Tucker CF

Sponsored by: Mayesh
Hands-On Workshop
Location: River Overlook B

Get ready to ditch the pink and embrace your inner flower child, because this workshop is SO FETCH!

Calling all Plastics (and those who secretly wish they were 😉)! Join us for a floral design workshop inspired by the iconic style of “Mean Girls.” We’ll swap those scrunchies for shears and learn to create totally fetch corsages, nosegays, and pocket squares that would even make Regina George jealous.

Think bold, edgy, and a little bit dramatic – just like your favorite Plastics. Our expert instructors will guide you through the techniques, and you’ll leave with a set of floral accessories that are sure to make a statement.

On Wednesdays, we wear pink… but on Saturday, March 1, we make flowers!

Space is limited, so grab your spot before it’s gone!

* Additional Fees Apply, Bring Your Tools.

Presenter:
Dondi Richardson CF

Sponsored by FloraCraft
Hands-On Workshop
Location: River Overlook C

Join FloraCraft senior designer, Dondi Richardson, CF, to learn how to incorporate fresh and permanent botanicals with a nod toward the trend of Celebrations of Life without a casket. You will get to create a tablescape that evokes an emotional depth which can be personalized to express honor and love for the deceased.   With modern commemorations such as this, the focus shifts from traditional mourning to a celebration of life, memories, and legacy.

* Additional Fees Apply, Bring Your Tools.

Presenter:
Amber Kirkland AIFD, CF, CFD
Presenter:
Jerome Raska AAF, AIFD, CF. CFD, PFCI
Presenter:
Amanda Rosencrantz CF

Sponsored by: Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Main Stage Design Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Curious about what AIFD, CFD, CF, PFCI, EMC, PFDE, and AAF stand for and how they can elevate your career? Join us for Alphabet Soup, an interactive Jeopardy-style workshop where we’ll decode these prestigious floral designations.

Perfect for both seasoned professionals and aspiring florists, this session combines fun, education, and inspiration to help you navigate the path to floral excellence. Don’t miss it!

Presenter:
Amber Kirkland AIFD, CF, CFD
Presenter:
Jerome Raska AAF, AIFD, CF. CFD, PFCI
Presenter:
Alice Waterous AIFD, CF, CFD, PFCI

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Main Stage Panel Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Become a More Efficient and Profitable Florist!

This session is packed with tried-and-true tips and tricks from Certified Florists (CF) to streamline your floral business. 

Learn how to:

• Design Faster: Master time-saving techniques without sacrificing quality.
• Optimize Your Office: Improve organization and communication for smoother workflows.
• Reduce Customer Complaints: Implement strategies for increased customer satisfaction.

Elevate your skills and your bottom line! 

All tips show will be available for download on the Certified Florist website for future reference.

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Silent Auction
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Trade Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom B

Where connections are made and relationships blossom!

The GLFEE Trade Show is the largest and best regional floral expo, connecting you with top vendors and fostering valuable relationships.

Discover new companies and the latest in fresh varieties, hard goods, and services. Reconnect with existing suppliers, provide feedback, and explore innovative solutions.

Enjoy exclusive show floor discounts and special offers to maximize your budget. Participate in the exciting passport contest and giveaways for a chance to win incredible prizes.

Presenter:
Jerome Raska AAF, AIFD, CF. CFD, PFCI

Sponsored by CalFlowers & FloraCraft
Main Stage Design Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Presenter:
Brandee Gaar

Sponsored by Details Flowers Software & Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Business Session
Location: River Overlook E 

Behind every successful business is a dream team that makes it all happen. But how do you find, nurture, and lead the right people to help your business thrive? This presentation is your guide to building a high-performing team that aligns with your vision, supports your goals, and drives your success.

In this session, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify the key roles you need to scale your business effectively.
• Attract top talent that fits your company culture and values.
• Delegate with confidence and create systems that empower your team to excel.
• Lead with clarity, fostering collaboration and accountability to achieve big results.

Why Attend?
This presentation is designed for entrepreneurs and business leaders ready to stop doing it all themselves and start building a team that propels their business forward. Whether you’re hiring your first team member or scaling a growing business, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies and fresh perspectives to transform your team into your business’s greatest asset.

Don’t miss this chance to unlock the secrets to building a team that helps you achieve your dreams while freeing up your time to focus on what matters most.

Presenter:
Derrick Myers CPA, CFP

Sponsored by Crockett, Myers & Associates
Business Session
Location: River Overlook F

Transform Your Customers into Raving Fans!

Want to create customers who can’t stop singing your praises?

Join us for this power-packed hour where we’ll unlock the secrets to delivering “Knock Your Socks Off” customer service. We’ll explore proven strategies and techniques that will not only exceed expectations but also build lasting loyalty.

In this session you’ll discover how to:

• Create memorable experiences: Go above and beyond to leave a lasting impression.
• Build genuine connections: Foster relationships that turn customers into advocates.
• Handle challenges with grace: Turn difficult situations into opportunities to shine.
• Cultivate a customer-centric culture: Inspire your team to prioritize customer satisfaction.

Turn one-time buyers into lifelong fans!

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Trade Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom B

Presenter:
Helen Miller AIFD, CF, CFD, PFCI

Sponsored by Teleflora
Business Session
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Join us for this insightful everyday designs program where Helen will be joined by two local shop designers, each put their unique spin on the same container. Through creative interpretations using various principles, elements, and techniques, watch these experts transform a simple container into three distinct arrangements.

Each designer will share their process, inspirations, and how they approached the challenge, offering an engaging insight into the world of retail floral artistry. It’s a celebration of creativity and individuality, perfect for anyone looking to add a splash of new ideas to their own designs.

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Trade Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom B

Presenter:
Neville MacKay CAFA, PFCI

Sponsored by Smithers Oasis
Main Stage Design Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt presentation with the renowned Neville MacKay CAFA, PFCI from Nova Scotia. With his signature charm and expertise, Neville will guide you through creative approaches to sympathy arrangements and offerings.

This main stage program featuring products from Smithers-Oasis, is designed to help you craft meaningful tributes that resonate deeply with your clients during life’s most tender moments.

Discover how to balance artistry and compassion, ensuring your sympathy designs leave a lasting impact.

Presenter:
Renato Sogueco AAF, PFCI

Presenter:
Eric Black

Sponsored by BloomNet & Syndicate Sales
Business Session
Location: River Overlook E

In today’s marketplace, consumers are increasingly making purchasing decisions based on a business’s commitment to sustainability. Floral shops have a unique opportunity to connect with this conscientious consumer base.

In this session, we will explore effective, sustainable practices that align with eco-friendly values and enhance customer engagement. Are you communicating your sustainability efforts effectively?

Join us to uncover key insights from two recent studies funded by the Floral Marketing Fund in coordination with the American Floral Endowment, which reveal the evolving perspectives of both florists and consumers on sustainability, equipping you with the knowledge to enhance your shop’s appeal in a competitive market.

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Trade Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom B

Presenter:
Edward Smith

Sponsored by Floristware
Main Stage Design Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Why not have your destination wedding right here at home?

Transform your space into a tropical paradise with an array of vibrant flowers and lush foliage. We’ll help you create stunning bridal bouquets, centerpieces, altar arrangements, and more, bringing the essence of the tropics to your special day.

Presenter:
Fayez Radwan

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Business Session
Location: River Overlook E

When our conference comes to the Amway Grand Plaza, our attendees always take note of one particular bellman who knows how to create moments of delight and lasting impressions in their minds and hearts. 

We leave with a smile on our face and a moment of delight every time we engage with this bellman. 

Fayez Radwan has agreed to share some of his secrets about customer service with us so that we might make a lasting impression in the minds and hearts of our customers.  Attendees will learn:

1. What customer service really means as we engage with our customers.
2. How to create memorable moments as we serve our customers.
3. What is the payoff for our businesses as we engage in this level of service.

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Trade Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom B

Presenter:
Kelly Shore

Sponsored by Syndicate Sales
Business Session
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Join Kelly Shore of The Floral Source and Petals by the Shore as she shares her story from retail florals to event florals and how she transitioned to foam-free design and sourcing American grown products. She will share how to sell seasonality and origin to your retail and event customers with ease and success.

Kelly will also demonstrate, using the latest in domestically produced products, a seasonal tablescape with locally grown products from Michigan growers and Floral Source partnering farms.

Presenter:
Brandee Gaar

Sponsored by Details Flowers Software & Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Business Session
Location: River Overlook E

In this workshop, you’ll learn a proven, step-by-step method to assume the sale with confidence and ease. Say goodbye to awkward sales pitches and hello to authentic, results-driven consultations that build trust and close deals.

Discover how to structure your consultations for maximum impact, eliminate objections before they arise, and position yourself as the expert clients can’t wait to work with. This session is packed with actionable strategies, real-world examples, and practical tools you can implement immediately.

Why Attend?

• Learn how to confidently guide potential clients to a “yes” without feeling pushy or salesy.
• Master the mindset and tactics to close more deals while maintaining authenticity.
• Gain exclusive insights into a sales method that simplifies the process and delivers results.

If you’re ready to boost your booking rate and walk away with a system you can use for every consultation, this workshop is a must-attend!

Sponsored by Experience Grand Rapids
Social Session
Location: Steelcase Ballroom B

Join us for a pre-Banquet reception! Enjoy drinks, cheese, and crackers while networking with industry peers.

Plus, get a complimentary professional headshot from Lyle Kearns of Superior Images. Even if you hate having your picture taken, Lyle’s expertise will make the experience effortless and enjoyable.

Presenter:
Jackie Lacey
AAF, AIFD, CFD, FSMD, PFCI
Sponsored by American Floral Endowment
Social Session
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Get fired up at GLFEE’s “Ignite & Inspire” recognition and awards banquet dinner. Light a fire and join us for networking, industry awards, CF inductions, and a delicious dinner celebration. RSVP to be captivated by the heat all while being inspired by the beauty as the flowers take center stage.

Making Sense of Sustainability: How Sustainabloom Can Help

Sustainability has emerged as a crucial topic in today’s world, and now is the perfect time to enhance and expand your sustainable practices. In this keynote session, we will explore the innovative resources, research, and industry stories shared through the American Floral Endowment’s Sustainabloom program. With a wealth of research-driven guides tailored for all segments of the floral industry, Sustainabloom delves into industry-specific topics that address the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic. Join us to discover how you can actively participate in this vital movement and take meaningful steps on your sustainability journey. Let’s cultivate a greener future together!

Extra Fee Applies. See registration desk to reserve your table/ seat.

Presenter:
Jen Linehan AIFD, CF, CFD

Sponsored by Beautiful Blooms By Jen
Hands-On Workshop
Location: River Overlook D

Join us for this optional meetup where you’ll connect with other members of the Women in Flowers community!

This is a great opportunity to learn about our mission, meet incredible and talented women in the floral industry, and discover upcoming events and resources. Whether you’re new to the community or already a supporter, we’d love to see you there!

Presenter:
Kelly Shore

Sponsored by Syndicate Sales
Hands-On Workshop
Location: River Overlook A

Join Kelly Shore in a hands-on workshop on how to create seasonal garden styled centerpieces and arrangements for retail or events using American grown flowers, including attainable Michigan product, using the latest in domestically produced mechanics and containers.

* Additional Fees Apply, Bring Your Tools. 

Presenter:
Neville MacKay CAFA, PFCI

Sponsored by Smithers Oasis
Hands-On Workshop
Location: River Overlook B

Extend the inspiration from Neville MacKay’s main stage presentation with this immersive, hands-on workshop. In this class, you’ll create a personalized cremation memorial piece that beautifully balances elegance and meaning. Guided by expert techniques, you’ll explore creative ways to incorporate urns, keepsakes, or mementos into floral designs that offer comfort and celebrate life.

This design will be yours to take home, providing a tangible reminder of how artistry and compassion can unite to honor cherished memories. Perfect for florists looking to expand their sympathy offerings with heartfelt and timeless designs.

* Additional Fees Apply, Bring Your Tools. 

Presenter:
Edward Smith

Sponsored by Floristware
Hands-On Workshop
Location: River Overlook C

Escape to Paradise with a Tropical Bridal Bouquet

Say “I do” to a bouquet that transports you and your guests to an island paradise. Imagine vibrant orchids, lush greenery, and exotic blooms, all artfully arranged to create a stunning masterpiece that captures the essence of the tropics.

Let us design a bridal bouquet that embodies your dream destination wedding, bringing the beauty and romance of the islands to your special day.

* Additional Fees Apply, Bring Your Tools. 

Presenter:
Brandee Gaar

Sponsored by Details Flower Software & Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Business Session
Location: River Overlook E

In this workshop, you’ll learn a proven, step-by-step method to assume the sale with confidence and ease. Say goodbye to awkward sales pitches and hello to authentic, results-driven consultations that build trust and close deals.

Discover how to structure your consultations for maximum impact, eliminate objections before they arise, and position yourself as the expert clients can’t wait to work with. This session is packed with actionable strategies, real-world examples, and practical tools you can implement immediately.

Why Attend?

• Learn how to confidently guide potential clients to a “yes” without feeling pushy or salesy.
• Master the mindset and tactics to close more deals while maintaining authenticity.
• Gain exclusive insights into a sales method that simplifies the process and delivers results.

If you’re ready to boost your booking rate and walk away with a system you can use for every consultation, this workshop is a must-attend!

Presenter:
Jennifer Linehan AIFD, CF, CFD

Sponsored by Beautiful Blooms By Jen
Business Session
Location: River Overlook F

Are you looking to expand your business, grow your client base, and increase your revenue? Join us for an insightful session on how to collaborate effectively with local businesses to host profitable floral design classes.

Learn from Jen, how to leverage partnerships to create unique, engaging workshops that attract new customers and generate more sales.

We’ll cover practical tips on selecting the right partners, designing collaborative events that showcase your skills, and using joint marketing efforts to maximize exposure. 

Presenter:
Gina Thresher AIFD, CFD, EMC, IMF

Sponsored by BloomNet
Main Stage Design Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Marketing sustainability in wedding design can attract eco-conscious couples and set your business apart.

Clearly communicate your sustainable sourcing, such as using local and seasonal flowers, eco-friendly materials, and waste reduction methods. Showcase these practices on your website and social media. Showing examples of sustainability in wedding design.

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Trade Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom B

Sponsored by: Crockett, Myers & Associates
Social Session
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

This is a time for all of us to come together as an industry and share a meal. There is no charge for the luncheon as it is included in your registration to attend the Expo. During lunch you’ll hear from Association and Foundation leadership about what’s going on.

After taking a brief look at the last two years, Derrick will share his projections for 2025 and the industry outlook

Lunch is included in your registration.
Please check box on registration form if you plan to attend.

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Trade Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom B

Presenter:
Samantha Bates, AIFD, CF, CFD

Sponsored by FTD

Main Stage Design Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

A plant in a basket with a bow no more! Join Samantha Bates AIFD as she reinvents the classic plant arrangement, moving beyond the standard basket and bow to create captivating, profitable designs through thoughtful up-selling with both natural and crafted elements.

Discover strategies to elevate plant offerings in your shop with natural accents, creative containers, and unique man-made additions, all designed to increase sales and delight customers.

Presenter:
Brandee Gaar

Sponsored by Details Flower Software & Great Lakes Floral Foundation

Business Session
Location: River Overlook E

Behind every successful business is a dream team that makes it all happen. But how do you find, nurture, and lead the right people to help your business thrive? This presentation is your guide to building a high-performing team that aligns with your vision, supports your goals, and drives your success.

In this session, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify the key roles you need to scale your business effectively.
• Attract top talent that fits your company culture and values.
• Delegate with confidence and create systems that empower your team to excel.
• Lead with clarity, fostering collaboration and accountability to achieve big results.

Why Attend?
This presentation is designed for entrepreneurs and business leaders ready to stop doing it all themselves and start building a team that propels their business forward. Whether you’re hiring your first team member or scaling a growing business, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies and fresh perspectives to transform your team into your business’s greatest asset.

Don’t miss this chance to unlock the secrets to building a team that helps you achieve your dreams while freeing up your time to focus on what matters most.

Presenter:
Derrick Myers CPA, CFP

Sponsored by Crockett, Myers & Associates
Main Stage Design Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Transform Your Customers into Raving Fans!

Want to create customers who can’t stop singing your praises?

Join us for this power-packed hour where we’ll unlock the secrets to delivering “Knock Your Socks Off” customer service. We’ll explore proven strategies and techniques that will not only exceed expectations but also build lasting loyalty.

In this session you’ll discover how to:

• Create memorable experiences: Go above and beyond to leave a lasting impression.
• Build genuine connections: Foster relationships that turn customers into advocates.
• Handle challenges with grace: Turn difficult situations into opportunities to shine.
• Cultivate a customer-centric culture: Inspire your team to prioritize customer satisfaction.

Turn one-time buyers into lifelong fans!

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Silent Auction
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Sponsored by Great Lakes Floral Foundation
Trade Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom B

Presenter:
Kelsey Thompson AIFD, CFD

Presenter:
Doug Bates AIFD, CF, CFD

Sponsored by Flower Shop Network
Main Stage Design Show
Location: Steelcase Ballroom A

Don’t miss this dynamic stage show, where we’ll reveal proven strategies to maximize sales and make the most of your inventory.

Discover effective merchandising and design techniques, learn to confidently sell everything from fresh flowers to gifts and decor, and explore trends and color stories that captivate customers. With a focus on profitability and creativity, this presentation will inspire new ways to elevate your shop’s visual appeal and enhance the shopping experience.

Join us to learn practical tips that will transform your displays and drive sales!