Arkansas has one of the largest floral conventions and trade markets in the south.  The 2006 convention was very exciting with the addition of the first annual Mid America Invitational Cup Competition.  This invitation was extended to state cup winners from ten states.  Seven states accepted the invitation to compete in this historic event.  Seven states were represented in 2007 and six in 2008.

Attendance to the Arkansas convention has always been exceptional when compared to other floral conventions and 2008 was no different.  The Mid America Invitational drew people from surrounding states.  

For the 2008 convention the First Annual Arkansas Florists Association Bokay Bash Golf Tournament was introduced  to kick off the week-end festivities.  It was held on Thursday at the Hot Springs Country Club.  
A luncheon preceded the golf tournament.   Everyone is invited to participate.  Entry forms are available under the "Forms Section".

The 2009 convention will be held at the Hot Springs Convention Center and Austin Hotel in Hot Springs, Arkansas on August 13-16. If you are considering being a vendor there are many things you will like about the facility.  You can drive to the building entrance with easy access to load and unload.  There are eight loading docks – bob truck level.  The booths are 10’ X 10’ and the cost is only $300.00 per booth.  A table and two chairs are included as part of your booth rental.  A sign with your company name is also provided.   The sign is black ink on white cardstock approximately 4” high and 12” in length depending on the length of the name of your company.  Concessions are on the trade market floor.   Several vendors have told us that Arkansas has the best market they have ever attended - clean, upscale and organized.

Our vendors are encouraged to attend the Friday and/or Saturday programs.  The cost for the Friday night program which includes a buffet dinner and design program is $40.  The Saturday night President's Banquet  is $50.  Please indicate on your Name Badge Form if you plan to attend either of these functions.  This does not obligate you to attend, but helps us plan.  Tickets can be purchased at the guest registration in the Lobby of Hall A outside the Trade Market entrance.

If you are interested in being a first time or returning exhibitor at the 56th Annual Arkansas Florists Association Convention and Trade Market you may download the Vendor Reigistration Form from the "Forms Section" of this website.  Please fill it out and return it with your fee.   Registration fees are non-refundable.   You will receive a confirmation letter & information packet upon receipt of your registration form and payment.

There are a lot of interesting things to do in Hot Springs.   Visit the website at www.hotsprings.org.  You will find your visit to be a real treat.

Looking forward to seeing you in Hot Springs in August.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call 501-690-4819 or e-mail at jtedlewis@ARFlorists.org