FDC is Like . . . a Box of Chocolates

Yvonne Ashton, Mayesh

I was asked the question, “Yvonne, why do you like to go to WF&FSA's Floral Distribution Conference (FDC)?” I have my own story and thoughts to share. However, before I do, let’s hear from a few of my flower friends about their experience with the Floral Distribution Conference.

 The first anecdote comes from Mike Henriquez, owner and CEO of Valley Springs. “When I was starting in this business I decided it would be a good idea to join the Wholesale Florist & Florist Supplier Association, undoubtedly one of the best decisions I have made so far. WF&FSA opened many doors for our company, it was the beginning of many great things to come. Their annual events have helped me grow in ways I always dreamed. I have met numerous people, many of which I now have the privilege to call friends. Through the years we have helped each other grow and unite the industry. This is why it is so important for me to attend the FDC. For a young entrepreneur, innovation and creativity are always welcome, and these are just a few attributes FDC attendants bring to the table. I am a proud sponsor of the mobile app and will definitely be looking forward to this year’s meeting.”

Peter Sessler, VP of Operation at Mayesh, added, “I believe the WF&FSA FDC is a great time of the year to reconnect and build on exciting business relationships, as well as build new ones in a relaxed, social and educational atmosphere. It also gives our Mayesh team a great opportunity to see new products as well as connect with industry peers and with new farms.”

Last but not least, I reached out to Ben Powell, Mayesh’s Vice President, who had shared sentiments with Peter when he added “the FDC presents a great opportunity to interact and learn from industry colleagues and presenters, to enhance my understanding of what is happening in our industry and to have a great time while doing so!”

For myself, one of my favorite ways to describe why I enjoy attending the FDC is because it forces me to get out of my bubble – you know, that routine that we all have so that we can get what we need to get done, but often doesn’t leave much time to reflect and expand. More importantly, I just never know what valuable connections I’m going to make. To illustrate, let’s go back to last year. I was on my way out from a Marketing Committee meeting (which I also love being involved with) and in the lobby I see this amazing and giant American flag being created out of flowers. Of course, I have to stop to admire it while whipping out my phone to capture an image to share on social media but as I am doing so I think “hey, that designer looks so familiar.” I don’t want to interrupt anyone so I hang out for a minute and then she finally turns around. I’m 99% sure that our newest Mayesh Design Star is creating this mammoth flag, but I have never seen her in real life and I had no idea if she really had traveled to Miami. So I timidly walk up to her and tap her on her shoulder and ask “Hello, are you Christy Hulsey?” She immediately turns around and she too isn’t positive on who I am. I introduce myself and then I received the biggest hug ever! It was such an emotional first meeting and was the best surprise ever. The chance meeting set the tone for our relationship that bloomed over this past year. 

I love going to the educational sessions, enjoy walking around the booths and participating in as much as I can that FDC offers. But what I value most is that I never know who I am going to meet – I guess you can say it’s a little bit like a box of chocolates!