Sizzling Success! The 2025 Great Lakes Floral and Event Expo Was ON FIRE!
Wow—what a weekend! The 2025 Great Lakes Floral and Event Expo, Ignite & Inspire, truly lived up to its name, and it’s all thanks to YOU!
The excitement kicked off Thursday with our powerhouse team of volunteers processing thousands of stems donated by our incredible sponsors. Thinking, “How can I be part of this next year?”—Great news! We’ll be starting our volunteer outreach soon, and you can always reach out to the GLFA office to get involved. This event simply wouldn’t happen without our amazing volunteers—so from the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU!
Friday’s all-day class with Doug Bates AIFD, CF, CFD and Kelsey Thompson AIFD, CFD was a deep dive into marketing, merchandising, and buying, complete with exclusive tours of local flower shops. Attendees walked away with fresh strategies and a newfound spark for their businesses! And let’s not forget the Friday night mixer—BINGO, drinks, and top-tier networking? Yes, please!
The learning didn’t stop there. Saturday and Sunday were jam-packed with hands-on workshops, business sessions, and stage presentations designed to educate and inspire. Hopefully, you got the chance to experience at least one hands-on class and one business seminar—because they were incredible!
And, of course, our Recognition Banquet was nothing short of spectacular. Seeing our members dressed to the nines and adorned with stunning wearable florals - pure magic.
Sunday brought another highlight as Brandee Gaar took the stage at our annual meeting, delivering insightful wisdom on marketing to Gen Z. Short, sweet, and so impactful—it left us all craving more!
Speaking of more…we’ve got big things brewing for 2026! Jen Linehan AIFD, CF, CFD of Beautiful Blooms by Jen is already working her magic on next year’s event, Bloom Beyond Boundaries. Expect an unforgettable experience that will push the limits of floral artistry. Mark your calendars for February 27 through March1—because you won’t want to miss it!
Until next year, keep blooming, keep inspiring, and keep the fire alive!
Samantha Belonga
St Ignace In Bloom
St. Ignance, MI