Norristown florist, Chris Drummond, was recognized last month at the annual Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner of the Society of American Florists (SAF) for his recent induction into the Professional Floral Communicators International. Mr. Drummond currently serves as President-Elect of SAF and speaks frequently on a wide variety of industry topics. PFCI is the service mark of the top speakers in the floral industry.

Mr. Drummond reflected on the meaning of this award. “After thirty years of sharing my experiences and knowledge with florists and consumers, it is humbling to be recognized by such an elite group of presenters. I have learned much more from these fine educators than I can ever give back through my programs. This is quite an honor.”

Dozens of florists, breeders, growers, importers, wholesalers, marketers, and educators were recognized with many different awards at Westin Mission Hills Resort. As you would expect, the gala included lavish floral centerpieces and stage décor.

Professional Floral Communicators International
Awards Chairman, D. Damon Samuel, AAF, AIFD, NAFD, NMF, PFCI of the Bill Doran Company and Lori Wheat, AAF of Lafayette Florist present the award.

The chairperson, D. Damon Samuel, AAF, AIFD, NAFD, NMF, PFCI of the Bill Doran Company, presented the award to Mr. Drummond as the members of the Awards Committee handed him flowers, a plaque and a pin to commemorate the induction. A champagne toast followed to celebrate all thirteen new members of PFCI. Prior to the event, Mr. Samuel said “Chris commands a room with his stage presence and voice, but his ability to engage the audience is most remarkable.”

On Friday at SAF’s Annual Convention, Mr. Drummond presented a panel-style educational session titled “The Future of the Retail Florist.” It was extremely popular and the audience completely filled the room. One florist remarked, “It was standing room only. I will have to get the slides online, because I couldn’t squeeze into the back of the room.”

Society of American Florists Chris Drummond Award
Chris Drummond accepts the PFCI designation from Paul Fowle, Vice President of DVFlora, and other members of SAF’s Awards Committee.

Mr. Drummond has chaired SAF’s Technology Task Force and served on the Consumer Marketing Committee and Retail Council. He has presented educational programs to many organizations including the Family and Consumer Sciences Association of Philadelphia, The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, Comcast Corporation, the Penn State University and the University of Delaware.

Penny’s Flowers of Glenside and Plaza Flowers of Norristown are headed by Mr. Drummond who has grown up in the family business and now serves as President. His team of 40 talented artisans and gift consultants provide complete florist services throughout the Philadelphia region.

Photos courtesy of SAF.