For the first time in its history, Bucks County Community College’s (BCCC) Floral Design Program will showcase an exhibit at the renowned Philadelphia Flower Show. The exhibition, titled Florists of the Future, aligns with this year’s theme, Gardens of Tomorrow, offering a bold, futuristic interpretation of floral design that merges creativity, sustainability, and innovation. This marks a significant milestone for the program and its students, as it is the first-ever floral education exhibit featured at the show, a distinction that previously belonged exclusively to landscaping education exhibits.

With approximately 40 students and alumni collaborating alongside their four instructors, Florists of the Future transports visitors to the year 3025, where floral design has evolved beyond traditional boundaries. The exhibit incorporates fresh flowers, handmade floral sculptures, and innovative materials, including metal and plastic elements, to reflect how floristry may adapt in a world with limited natural resources.

Amy and Susan, two students from the program, shared their excitement about contributing to the exhibit. “We wanted to create a retro-futuristic design using both fresh and handmade flowers,” Susan explained. “My sister, who works in a metal shop in Brooklyn, even made welded metal flowers for the display.” The exhibit also features beaded floral structures and exotic blooms, including protea, orchids, and tropical ginger.

Beyond aesthetics, the project was a true labor of love. Students constructed and painted the exhibit structure themselves, demonstrating the hands-on experience and teamwork that BCCC’s program fosters. “The first two days were just painting and making sure the structure could hold the weight of our designs,” Amy added. “It’s been an incredible learning opportunity.”

The exhibit’s inclusion in the Flower Show was made possible through the strong relationship between BCCC’s program director, Renee Tucci, and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS). After PHS representatives judged BCCC’s local floral show at the college, they were so impressed that they extended an invitation to participate in the Flower Show. Tucci, who is also the president-elect of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), credits the program’s growing reputation and the talent of its students for this landmark opportunity.

“This is a dream come true for our students. The Flower Show is an iconic event, and having our program featured speaks volumes about the quality of education and creativity coming out of BCCC.”

– Renee Tucci, AIFD, Floral Design Instructor, Floral Design Certificate Program at Bucks County Community College

For many students, the program is a gateway to a new career. Several participants joined after leaving careers in corporate settings, hospitality, or retail. Melanie and Els, a mother-daughter duo who recently graduated from BCCC’s floral program, first discovered their passion for floristry through a Mother’s Day gift. “We fell in love with floral design and decided to pursue it professionally,” Melanie shared. They now run their own floral business, Au Petit Garden.

Maria, a current student, secured a job at a flower shop while still completing her coursework, proving that the program offers not only education but also real-world career opportunities. “It’s amazing to be part of something this big while still being a student,” she said. “This experience has solidified my decision to build a career in floral design.”

Visitors to the Philadelphia Flower Show, held from March 1–9 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, will have the opportunity to explore Florists of the Future and witness firsthand how BCCC’s talented students are redefining floral artistry. The exhibit will also be featured in a special segment on FYI Philly on March 1, offering an inside look at the creative process behind its production.

With its hands-on training and connections to industry leaders, BCCC’s Floral Design Program is shaping the next generation of floral professionals. For those interested in learning more or pursuing a career in floral design, the program offers both certificate and degree options, as well as opportunities for certification through AIFD.

For more information about the BCCC Floral Design Program, visit bucks.edu/floraldesign.