Welcome
The Association of Irish Floral Artists (AOIFA), which was founded in 1973, is the official organisation of affiliated Floral Art Groups and Flower and Garden Clubs in Ireland.
AOIFA and The Flower Arranger say "Thank You" to Nancy McKeever
Nancy McKeever, a member of Doddervale Flower Club, Dublin, has ensured that the Flower Arranger magazine was delivered to AOIFA clubs in Ireland since 1986. She is now passing on the baton after 34 years of uninterrupted, dedicated service.
Nancy, who is Life Vice President of AOIFA, has been a staunch member of the Association since the 1970s. She served as Chairperson from 1994 to 1996 and President from 1996 to 1998. During that period she made many friends travelling throughout the country promoting Education Days. She has served AOIFA tirelessly as a Teacher and Judge, encouraging students and competitors along the way. She is a NAFAS National Judge.
Nancy was a member of the WAFA Ireland Committee, when the 11th World Flower Show was staged in Dublin in 2014. She was editor of the WAFA Ireland Book, “ Duilleoga”.
Now, that Nancy is retiring from this job, she will have more time to devote to her on-line duties as Editor of Doddervale Flower Club Newsletter, the study of Latin and compiling a book on family history.
The Flower Arranger would like to add their sincere thanks to Nancy for her tremendous dedication over so many years. Nancy has always been a pleasure to deal with – cheerful, kind and considerate. We wish her all the best with her future activities.
The photograph below shows Mary O’Brien, Chairperson of AOIFA congratulating Nancy on her long commitment to The Flower Arranger on the occasion of the AOIFA Sapphire Celebrations.
Chairperson's Newsletter
As we leave 2020 behind there seems to be a mood of cautious optimism in the air with the positive news of vaccines coming on stream. Despite the disruption to our lives, created by the pandemic, we must acknowledge that all wasn’t negative. Volunteerism came to the fore with people quietly doing good deeds. A sense of community and neighbourliness flourished. Simple pleasures, such as family walks and picnics in the countryside, grew in popularity and our gardens became our sanctuaries and our Floral Art activities a source of inspiration and comfort.
AOIFA adapted to the limitations and discovered the value of modern technology. It became evident how great an organisation AOIFA is with so many members volunteering to keep the show on the road. Virtual flower demonstrations and shows were provided. The Judges’ course was embarked upon. The winter newsletter was published and now we have more to look forward to with the Teachers’ Committee providing teaching demonstrations in the spring. These will commence in mid January. I want to thank most sincerely all of you, too numerous to name individually, who helped in any way throughout the year.
Passing the date of the mid Winter Solstice is a reason for hope with days beginning to lengthen and nights shortening. The green shoots of the bulbs peeking up are a source of joy and a reminder that spring is on the way.
Let us keep our spirits up as we approach 2021 with hope and optimism as we look forward to a gradual return to normality. Let’s ponder this quote and take inspiration from it: “ Plant seeds of happiness, hope, success and love: it will come back to you in abundance.” (Steve Maraboli)
Let’s take care of each other, our communities and our fragile world.
All good wishes,
Mary
Our Winter Programme on AOIFA Facebook Page
The Christmas demonstrations commenced on Tuesday, 3rd November.
Seasonal gardening advice by Denise Gill, RHSI and South Dublin Flower Club
Favourites through the Gardening Year by Bríd Kelleher, Sutton Floral Art Group
Remedies for the Winter season by Mary Frahill, Cobh Flower and Horticulture Club
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Covid -19
A meeting of the AOIFA Executive was held via Zoom on 18th June with a view to regulate for the Association, in these unprecedented and unpredictable times. It was unanimously decided that, due to Covid - 19, AOIFA gatherings should cease until the AGM in March 2021, when the new Executive will take over. It is envisaged that such activities will return to normal in 2021.
This decision was made in order to secure the health and safety of our members and to bring some degree of clarity to the current uncertainty. In the interim, the current Executive will remain in place and manage the Association’s affairs with the help of the incoming Executive.
As each club is autonomous, it may make its own decisions regarding its activities and is advised to do so based on HSE and Government Guidelines. Please refer to https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/protect-yourself-and-others.html as how to protect yourself and others.
A revised schedule of events will be issued in the autumn.
Congratulations to Rosemary Smyth who was awarded Silver at Canada Blooms 2020
Canada Blooms had to close early due to Covid-19. The competitors had just enough time to stage their exhibits and have them judged before they had to take it down again.
