The American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), established in 1965, is the oldest and largest
non-profit organization
A nonprofit organization (NPO) or non-profit organisation, also known as a non-business entity, not-for-profit organization, or nonprofit institution, is a legal entity organized and operated for a collective, public or social benefit, in co ...
dedicated to recognizing and promoting the art of
floral design
Floral design or flower arrangement is the art of using plant materials and flowers to create an eye-catching and balanced composition or display. Evidence of refined floristry is found as far back as the culture of ancient Egypt. Professionally ...
as a professional career.
[Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Floral designers] Its more than 1200 members engage in a variety of professional programs and activities through a network of six (6) regional chapters throughout the United States and Canada.
Membership
To receive accreditation as a full member, and use the designation 'AIFD', candidates must demonstrate their design artistry by creating five (5) arrangements in specific categories which are announced during the Accreditation Evaluation testing. Designs are evaluated by members of the AIFD National Membership Committee for the following attributes:
*Category Interpretation
*Scale (Proportion)
*Balance (Physical and Visual)
*Line (Movement and Rhythm)
*Color (Balance, Harmony and Rhythm)
*Creativity
*Unity (Harmony & Texture)
*Focal Emphasis
*Depth
*Mechanics (Professional Application)
Applicants also need to successfully complete a written test which covers the elements and principles of floral design and fresh
flower
A flower, sometimes known as a bloom or blossom, is the reproductive structure found in flowering plants (plants of the division Angiospermae). The biological function of a flower is to facilitate reproduction, usually by providing a mechani ...
care and handling.
To maintain membership, accredited designers are required to document
continuing education
Continuing education (similar to further education in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland, Ireland) is an all-encompassing term within a broad list of post-secondary learning activities and programs. The term is used mainly in the United ...
in the field.
References
External links
The American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD)
{{Floral organizations
Professional associations based in the United States
Arts organizations established in 1965
Floral organizations