Are you a florist or floral designer who thrives on the thrill of a deadline? Do you enjoy the opportunity to challenge your creativity? If you answered yes to these questions, you may enjoy the live floral design competition at the Society of American Florists annual convention in Palm Beach. Florida florists aren’t the only participants in the fast-paced and exciting competition. Whether you are a small-town florist in Laurel, Delaware or acquired your skills as a big city florist in Redondo Beach, California, the contagious excitement is perfect for you.

The 2008 Sylvia Cup Design Competition was held on September 18^th in Palm Beach but there is still plenty of time to prepare for next year’s competition. The annual Sylvia Cup Design Competition begins with 25 contestants eager to show off their skills for the judges and live audience. The contestants are given their task and materials only moments before the buzzer sounds to begin the competition. With no time to prepare, these creative floral designers create an arrangement from a variety of materials and ranging from sympathy pieces to corsages. When finished, the judges score the contestants and narrow the field of competition until only one of these florists goes home with the prize. Sound familiar? The rules are similar to the popular series “Iron Chef” on the Food Network channel but the fun of the moment, creative designs, and thrill of victory are completely original.

There is nothing quite as exciting as watching two masters battle it out except for participating. A contest like this that focuses on creativity and originality is a wonderful way for florists everywhere to enjoy their craft while sharpening their skills. Planning a floral convention for 2009? Floral design contests are excellent ways to get local florists excited about attending while showcasing the creativity of florists in your area. Want to stimulate your customers’ interest in sending flowers? The joy of floral design and a job well done is contagious. Once your customers have watched you create flower arrangements with the spirit and tenacity of a sensei, that bright spirit will catch on so that your flower shop is the first on their minds when sending flowers for a special occasion. Let the games begin!