Join us in Columbus, Ohio for BloomNet's Fresh Forum®.
Discover the latest in floral education and network with industry experts and other florists!
EVENT COST: Florists are Free
LOCATION: DeSantis Florist | 4460 Kenny Road Columbus, OH 43220
WHEN: 6:00pm-9:00pm on Thursday, May 29, 2025
PRESENTER: Brent Leech, AIFD
Brent Leech is a nationally recognized floral designer, educator, and speaker, bringing over 20 years of experience as an award-winning designer, educator, and public speaker. Based in Phoenix, AZ, Brent has held leadership roles in floral education and design, most recently serving as Senior Floral Education Coordinator and Designer at the Arizona Flower Market. His extensive background includes managing floral shops, founding his own floral design company, and contributing to high-profile events such as the White House State Dinner and the Academy Awards.
Brent currently serves as the National Vice President of the American Institute of Floral Design (AIFD), continuing to shape the future of floral artistry through education, mentorship, and innovation.
EVENT SCHEDULE
Check in and Florists Roundtable: How’s Business? What's new at BloomNet?
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Confirm you've arrived! Share business trends happening in your market and the challenges you are facing with peers. Also discuss rethinking floral deliveries using delivery services such as Uber, DoorDash and Walmart to expand business.
The Business of Weddings and Events
6:00 PM-7:00 PM | Presenter: Brent Leech, AIFD, CFD
Have a solid business conversation with Brent as he shares how to build this lucrative side of business through effective marketing using social media, attending wedding shows and leveraging customer word of mouth. Also learn how to run an effective consultation, sell the event and close the deal.
Break and Dinner
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM
The Wedding Floral Experience from Vision to Reality
7:30 PM - 8:30 PM | Presenter: Brent Leech, AIFD, CFD
Learn all about the on-trend colors, themes and products that are popular among couples seeking the best floral decor for their big day. Brent will show off examples of these hot trends. Also, learn how to offer and upsell linens, draping, dinnerware and more.
Closing
8:30 PM - 9:00 PM | Share takeaways and next steps to grow your business.