Five Reasons You Shouldn’t Miss The 2016 Annual Convention

SAF will soon release the complete agenda for their 2016 Annual Convention in September. But before that agenda even comes out we can tell you five great reasons to set aside some Mother's Day money and book your spot now:

 

Networking

One of the best things about this conference is simply being able to spend three days sharing ideas and experiences with other florists who, like you, want to thrive in this industry. Add to that the chance to network with other industry professionals and you’re guaranteed to walk away with valuable new contacts for your business.

There were more than 450 people in attendance last year, and even more are expected this time around. It is an incredible opportunity to just sit down and share ideas with some of the smartest and most successful florists and educators in the business.

 

Educational Sessions 

This year SAF is promising over 20 educational programs covering talent (attracting, retaining, training, etc), sales and marketing, technology, and much more. 

Last year FloristWare sponsored Rick Rivers of Florist Bootcamp and this year we are sponsoring Tim Huckabee of Floral Strategies – part of our ongoing commitment to help bring business education to retail florists.

 

Supplier Expo

SAF’s Supplier Expo is your chance to meet with the best and most reputable vendors in the floral industry - from design accessories, to technology, to growers - it’s all here in one room. The Expo also offers free drinks and munchies and the chance to win free registration to SAF 2017.

FloristWare has supported the Supplier Expo each year since it was first reintroduced in Phoenix in 2013, and it is an important part of our ongoing effort to be available, accessible and accountable to our many clients. Drop by the booth, we’d love to see you!

 

A Whole Different Attitude And Approach To The Industry

It's easy to get the impression that the retail flower business is falling apart, that deceptive order gatherers and direct shippers have made it impossible for real florists to have a chance.

Florists that come to the convention have an entirely different experience. They see shops that are making it work, and they learn and are inspired by them. If you have never been come – and you'll leave more excited about the business than you have in years.

 

Social Scene

The fun continues outside of the educational sessions, with social events such as a Kick-off Breakfast, a First-timer’s Reception, opening night Welcome Party, networking lunches and cocktail parties, plus an Awards Reception and Dinner on the final night. While you don’t have to attend all of it, there are lots of wonderful opportunities for fun, food and drinks with friends old and new. Many of these events are included in your registration package.

 

Bonus Reason: Hawaii

SAF 2016’s tag line is “Go for Business. Stay for the Sunsets” and there is no denying that the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua is one of the most beautiful hotels SAF has ever visited. Set on the beaches of Maui, Kapalua (translated from an ancient Hawaiian language to mean “arms embracing the sea”) is a top rated hotel with world-class services and amenities such as golf, water sports, spa, and restaurants. How often do you get to deduct a trip like that as a business expense?