Let's meet Suzie...
It's hard to believe that I've been living the dream as a floral artist, event planner, consultant, marketer, publisher and educator for over 40 years. I've had a lot of fun with flowers, met many incredible people along the way and learned amazing things on my journey. Nothing makes me happier than to be able to share those experiences with my fellow floral and design enthusiast.
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I've worn many hats throughout my career which makes me the perfect fit for your next floral project, event or experience. Hop over to my page, and if you like what you see, drop me a note or give me a call and let's share some inspiration, innovation and motivation!
Professional ​
Philosophy
INSPIRATION, INNOVATION, MOTIVATION!
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These three words sum up my principles and what I strive for everyday.
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To find INSPIRATION in every one and in every situation.
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To discover possibilities, develop new opportunities (INNOVATE) and to be a part of transformation in the world around me.
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To MOTIVATE, by example, those I have the pleasure of encountering in the workplace and in my day-to-day activities.
Personal Mission
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms.
1 Peter 4:10
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Everybody has a "special something." A unique talent or
a passion that drives us forward. A spark that motivates us. It's that calling that helps us to dream big, audacious dreams. We all have our individual gifts, and it's within us to use those gifts to serve others. All we need is the desire to open ourselves up to the beautiful possibilities that are out there waiting.
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Proud Moments
2022 - Received the AIFD Award of Distinguished Service to the Floral Industry
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2021 - Became Executive Editor of The Professional Florist magazine
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2020 - Received the Award of Special Recognition from the Great Lakes Floral Association
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2019 - Guest designer representing the United States at Fleuramour - Alden Biesen, Bilzen, Belgium
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2019 - Lead Designer for the Interflora World Cup Competition Gala
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2018- Served as the 2018 AIFD National Symposium Coordinator
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2015 - White House floral design team for the 2015 Governor's Ball
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2014 - First of many trips to China for product development
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2013 - 2015 - Served as the AIFD 50th Anniversary, Task Force Coordinator
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2012 - 2013 and 2013-2014 - Served two terms as the AIFD National Secretary
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2011 - 2012 - Served as the AIFD South Central Regional President
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2010 - Became the Publisher and Executive Editor of Cenflo Inc Publications
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2009 - Appointed as Director at Large to the AIFD National Board (served 2009-2015)
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2008 - Served as the 2008 AIFD National Symposium Program Coordinator
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2008 - Elected to the Board of Directors for the AIFD South Central Region (served between 2008-2013)
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2008 - Received Michigan Certified Florists - Member of the Year award.
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2007 - Event decor creator for the annual AIFD National Awards and Induction Ceremony and Gala
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2006 - Became the Editor for Cenflo Inc Publications - Print Publications: FLORA Magazine, Flower News, Nursery News, Flower Book and Nursery Book
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2006 - Inducted into the Professional Floral Communicators International (PFCI)
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2006 - Elected as the Vice President to the AIFD North Central Regional Board
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2004 - Elected to the Board of Directors for the AIFD North Central Region (2004-2006)
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2003 and 2004 - Twice awarded the title of Michigan Floral Associations Designer of the Year
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2002 - Presented my first of two Main Stage Design Programs for the AIFD National Symposium. Second program co-presented in 2006
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2000 - Served as the President of the Michigan Floral Association
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2000 - Inducted as an accredited member of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD)
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1998 - Received Michigan Certified Florists Designation as one of the charter members of the program
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1998 - Served as the Chairperson for the Michigan Floral Associations - Michigan Certified Florists Certification Program (1998 - 2001)
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1995 - Served on the Steering and Development committee for the Michigan Certified Florist Program (1995 - 1998)
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1987 - Developed and began teaching the Professional Retail Florists progam at Delta Community College. (1987-2000)
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1986 - Presented my first professional floral design program at the Michigan Floral Asssociation Spring Convention
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1981 - Acquired my first "paying job" in a retail flower shop
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1976 - Was bitten by the flower shop bug as a high school student interning at a local flower shop