The establishment
of the South Dakota Florists Association was inevitable evolution.
The need for florists to unite and work together as an organization
was ignited by the ever changing economy, communication, networking
and other marketing tools. Many factors in the world and industry
can only be handled responsibly and thoroughly through an organized
effort.
In 1994,
Forty-two other states had florists associations. The associations
were for the continuing education of florists, for enabling florists
to receive benefits as a group, and for the promotion of the floral
industry as the gift giving choice. An informal meeting was held during
the fall of 1994 to evaluate the need for South Dakota to have its
own association. The general consensus of the florists present was
to continue to explore and from this exploration the South Dakota
Florists Association (SDFA) was born. All initial work of the SDFA
was done on a volunteer basis, and volunteerism has become the foundation
of the organization. The first set of officers and board of directors
were appointed. These people were willing to give up their extra time
for the future of the florists in South Dakota.
The
officers and board of directors then created the by-laws and set up
a treasury. Positive recruitment then started to welcome all florists
of the state to the new organization. The by-laws were approved by
the members at the first annual meeting held in March 1996, in Chamberlain
at Cedar Shores Resort.
Response
to SDFA has been very positive and members are very supportive. We
would like to invite you to become a member.