Beyond the Bio: Jody McLeod AIFD, CFD, PFCI, NPPCF
It’s always fun to know a little more about the Texas State Florists' Association's amazing presenters than what their bios reveal. In this new series of feature articles, TSFA takes you beyond the bio and shares just a little bit more about each of those who will add to your layers of learning throughout the year!
Meet Jody McLeod AIFD, CFD, PFCI, NCCPF
Jody McLeod is a seasoned floral industry veteran with over 30 years of experience. He is a Teleflora Education Specialist, won the North Carolina Florist of the Year competition and was inducted into the Jim Treadaway Cup Hall of Fame. McLeod is known for his high-energy, engaging and inspiring floral design programs and leadership seminars. He is also the Mayor of Clayton, North Carolina.
What is your first memory of flowers?
My first memory of flowers is going outside and making a budvase with any flowers found in my grandmother’s yard. She loved them and said, “These are the prettiest dandelions anyone has ever given me!” I had no idea!
What experiences led to your interest in the floral Industry?
While in college, I worked on the weekends and summers at Annie V’s Flower Shop in Clayton, NC. I delivered, processed flowers and watered plants. I was tasked with removing dead flowers off graves, and I progressed to waiting on local customers and answering the phone. One slow summer, I was placed in the design room to make fall designs, and the rest is history.
What contributed most to your design education?
The North Carolina State Florist Association contributed the most to my education with the NC Certified Professional Florist School. It was there that I learned why we do what we do on a daily basis. Winning scholarships to Teleflora Education Center also had a tremendous impact on me. Without a doubt, attending AIFD Symposiums continues to impact my floral education in a profound way.
What has been your favorite job in the floral industry?
My favorite job has been the delivery driver. Experiencing the look of joy on people’s faces and sometimes the shock of receiving flowers from a special friend or secret admirer — has always felt so rewarding.
Your career has taken you on quite the journey. Was there a one or more moments that changed your path to lead you to where you are today?
The moment that changed everything was my AIFD main stage program in 2018 — Discovering the Art of Leadership. This program combined my love for leadership and interpretive design.
You have served your community as Mayor for years. How does this experience relate to your experiences within our industry?
They are both all about building relationships, growing community and promoting our passion.
What do you predict to be the greatest constant and the greatest change in floral design as our industry moves forward?
Education will always be a constant to support our success. What is changing is the way participants will receive education. Convenience, accessibility and affordability will be essential.
What role do you see yourself playing in the future of floral design education?
My future role in the floral industry will continue to be as an educator and leadership professional development advisor.
Is there anything else readers should know about you?
I love working with people who want to be the very best version of themselves and who surround themselves with like-minded visionary floral designers, presenters and leaders. As a leader, I will always be the lead learner, consistently seeking opportunities for myself to grow and develop.
Texas Floral Expo
Registration is open for the Texas Floral Expo! Join your floral family at the Embassy Suites San Marcos on June 19-21. At this conference, industry-leading presenters will share the latest tips and trends in multiple demonstrations, business sessions and hands-on workshops.
Don't miss these sessions presented by Jody McLeod  AIFD, CFD, PFCI, NCCPF!
Saturday, June 20, 3:15-4:15 p.m. — The Leadership Perspective, an Interactive Presentation
Join Jody McLeod for an interactive session designed just for you! This practical and engaging leadership training was created specifically for florists. We’ll explore how focus can transform the way you lead your team and business, how success and failure shape stronger leaders and why leadership begins with leading yourself. Through a mix of short talks, reflection and conversation, you’ll leave with a fresh perspective, renewed confidence and at least one clear leadership shift you can take back to your shop right away.
Underwritten by Texas State Florists' Association
Sunday, June 21, 12-3 p.m. — Hanashi, a Presentation With Lunch ProvidedÂ
Hanashi (Hana-shi) is the Japanese word for story. Flowers speak what words alone cannot express, and every floral tells a unique story. As designers, we must ensure that the story is well-told by being clear, clean and concise. Floral artists frequently focus on line, movement, mechanics and structure, but how often do we consider what the design represents? Learn to explore ways to formulate each element with intention. By incorporating Hanashi into the design process, we can elevate our florals to another level. For centuries, a story has been told through art, fashion, music and literature. Now, in the 21st century, we’re sharing Hanashi in floral design.
Underwritten by Teleflora.
