2026 Designer Of the YEar
2026 Annual Convention - Stayin' Alive
This year’s competitions are inspired by iconic songs, bringing energy, creativity, and a fun twist to each design challenge.
DESIGNER OF THE YEAR 2026
Designers create and submit their themed pieces for each category at the Annual Convention, where entries are judged by a panel of industry professionals.
The four designers with the highest overall scores advance to a live, on-stage final Sunday morning, where they complete a timed design challenge. One finalist is then named Kentucky Florists’ Association Designer of the Year.
Category winners are also selected in each division, recognizing outstanding work among designers who do not advance to the final round.
DESIGN OF THE YEAR CATEGORIES
Sympathy Design
Sympathy Design
Sympathy Design
“Stairway to Heaven” – Led Zeppelin
Design a sympathy arrangement that reflects elegance, emotion, and tribute, inspired by this timeless classic.
Wedding Design
Sympathy Design
Sympathy Design
“Band of Gold” – Freda Payne
Participants will create (3):
- Bridal Bouquet
- Corsage
- Boutonniere
Designs should reflect romance, celebration, and cohesive wedding styling inspired by the theme.
Design's Choice
Sympathy Design
Design's Choice
“Funkytown” – Lipps Inc.
Let your creativity shine with a bold, expressive design that captures the fun, vibrant spirit of this iconic track.
Registration
Ready to compete? You can register for KFA design competitions online or by mail, online registration is the fastest and easiest way to secure your spot.
KFA Designer of the Year – Entry Form (pdf)
DownloadPrefer to register by mail? A printable application is also available. Completed forms may be mailed to the Kentucky Florists’ Association. Harriette Miller c/o In Bloom Again, 918 S 6th Street, Louisville, KY 40203 or via email – harriettemiller@bellsouth.net
Please note you must be a member to attend the Annual Convention. Membership Dues are $40 a year per business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at kyflorists@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
To enter, you must be a current KFA member and registered for the Annual Convention. Competition registration will be available during the convention sign-up process.
No, designers select one category to compete in.
All submitted designs are judged during the convention, and the four designers with the highest overall scores advance to a live, on-stage final on Sunday morning.
In the final round, competitors complete a timed design challenge, and one designer is selected as Kentucky Florists’ Association Designer of the Year.
Additional outside of the four designers moving on, awards are also given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place within each category.
Designers should arrive with their completed competition pieces, created according to the provided themes and guidelines.
Additional details regarding materials, tools, and any provided supplies will be shared in advance to help you prepare.
Designs are submitted at the Annual Convention and judged by a panel of industry professionals. The top four designers advance to a live, on-stage Sunday morning.
The top four designers compete live in a timed surprise challenge using provided materials. One designer is then named Designer of the Year.
Yes! Designers of all experience levels are welcome. However, if you’ve never competed before, we encourage you to consider the Novice Contest, which offers a more introductory and supportive competition experience.
Participants will receive guidance in advance, and many materials are provided through generous KFA sponsors. Specific requirements will be shared prior to the event.
No, there is not an additional registration fee for KFA design competitions. However, participants must be current KFA members and registered for the Annual Convention.
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