I often have people ask me about the "AIFD" designation after my name. It stands for the American Institute of Floral Designers. It is equivalent to American Institute of Architects (AIA) for architects, or the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) for interior designers.
AIFD was established in 1965 by a small group of leading floral designers dedicated to recognizing and promoting the art of floral design as a professional career. Today, it is the leading non-profit organization committed to establishing and maintaining higher standards in professional floral design. With nearly 1,200 members worldwide, AIFD and its members are in the forefront of the industry in presenting educational and design programs.
Accredited membership in AIFD is selective. To be accredited, a floral designer must fulfill rigid qualifications and demonstrate advanced professional ability. Members are distinguished by the letters "AIFD" used as an addendum to their name. To maintain accreditation, they must meet certain continuing education requirements.
From diverse backgrounds and interests, from small-town florists large-scale party designers, from college professors to Rose Parade consultants, from nationally known corporate advisors in product development to winners in international design competition, AIFD members are found in virtually every aspect of floriculture.
I have been an accredited member of AIFD for over 25 years. Every year as the seasons change my designs change and evolve. It can be the wonderful scent of the first spring flowers that bloom to the numerous bulbs that are pushing their way through the warm soil to reach the bright sunlight that enlighten my designs. I am also intrigued and motivated when I find a great new container or an interesting and stimulating new client. These are a few of the areas that keep me challenged and forever designing with such a beautiful medium.
See more of my work at http://www.michaelmerritt.com/.
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