Beyond the Bio: Cassie Sanders

What is your first memory of flowers?

My first memory of flowers is my mom receiving a dozen roses from my dad every Valentine’s Day — a tradition he’s kept since she was 16, through more than 40 years of marriage.

What experiences led to your interest in the floral Industry?

I entered the floral industry by accident. I went to college to become an ag teacher and selected my student-teaching program for its strong ag mechanics focus, expecting to teach welding. On my first day, floral design was added to the schedule. I’ve been learning, growing and blooming in the industry ever since.

What contributed most to your design education?

Education and classes through TSFA played a major role in my floral training. In my first full year of teaching, I enrolled in the TSFA Fundamental Elements and Principles course to gain more hands-on experience. After several years of teaching and learning at TSFA events, I earned my TMF, then went on to pursue my CFD and AIFD as I sought new professional challenges.

What has been your favorite job in the floral industry?

Teaching high school students about the floral industry will always hold a special place in my heart — it’s where I fell in love with flowers. I now channel that passion into supporting the industry through my work with TSFA.

Your career has taken you on quite a journey. Was there one or more moments that changed your path to lead you to where you are today?

My career has balanced two passions: teaching and floral design. Seeking to challenge myself, I pursued my AIFD designation to deepen my design expertise, followed by National Board Teaching Certification to refine my teaching practice. Both experiences fundamentally changed how I approach each field.

What led you to the idea for the spotlight that you will share during the Texas Floral Expo?

Working in both education and the floral industry has revealed a disconnect between the two. I’ve seen firsthand how impactful well-structured internships can be for both students and flower shops. I want to encourage more shops to take a chance on a student and provide them with an opportunity that can be impactful for both stakeholders.

What are the key takeaways that you hope will be gleaned from this class?

A key takeaway from this class is understanding appropriate skill levels and realistic expectations for student interns, as well as how to partner effectively with local floral design programs for mutual benefit.

What do you love about working at TSFA?

I love supporting florists and floral educators while advocating for an industry I’m passionate about.

What do you predict to be the greatest constant and the greatest change in floral design as our industry moves forward?

The constant in our industry is that people love flowers — they will always be part of life’s most meaningful moments. The greatest change ahead is the industry’s shift toward sustainability.

What role do you see yourself playing in the future of floral design education?

I see my future in floral education as supporting TSFA instructors and the education committee with a solid, hands-on curriculum, teaching courses and workshops, and advocating for the floral industry with the Texas Education Agency, Texas Department of Agriculture and other entities.

Please share additional information that will offer a glimpse Beyond the Bio.

I’m a mom of two girls, married to my wonderful husband and fueled by creativity and fresh air. When I’m not watercolor painting or crafting, you’ll find me camping, reading or enjoying life on our six-acre property southwest of Lubbock.