Beyond the Bio: Susan Piland

What is your first memory of flowers?

One of my flower memories was picking roses through Mrs. Garrett’s chain link fence, running to hide under the canopy of the large branches of our magnolia tree, then hearing the phone ring and my mother yelling, “Susan!” I was caught … again.

What experiences led to your interest in the floral Industry?

Attending Skyline High School in Dallas was the perfect pathway for my career. I found my true passion in floral design and embraced every opportunity that was offered. I met my husband working at an area florist during my senior year, where he was the delivery driver! The rest is history!!

What industry education made a difference in your life?

The summer I graduated high school brought my introduction to the Texas State Florists’ Association at the TSFA Convention in San Antonio. I was absolutely in awe. I began the Texas Master Florist classes at this convention, which took two years to complete back in the day. I was pinned TMF by Willard Scott (yes, the NBC weather guy) at the 1986 convention in Houston!!

What has been your favorite job in the floral industry?

Teaching floral design for the TSFA School of Floral Design is a passion. I love to guide students in discovering their own artistic abilities and see them transform their ideals into beautiful arrangements.

What industry employment led you to where you are today?

During my floral career, I have worked for several florists in the Dallas area and even went back as a teacher’s aide under the instruction of my horticulture teacher at Skyline High School, Mr. Skinner. I was co-owner of Windsor Florist in downtown Mesquite until 2016.

What have been the highlights of your life in the floral industry?

Achieving Texas Master Florist in 1986 was the first of many highlights! Early in my career, I won the Dallas Cup Competition in 1989 and 1992 and went on to compete in the Texas Cup Competition, placing in the top 5 in 1993 and 1994. My lifetime goal was to be inducted into the American Institute of Floral Designers. That goal was reached in Chicago in 2023.

Where do you see the industry in 10 years?

I was reading a recent statistical overview, and the global market of flower and plant sales is expected to grow over 6% in the next five years so the potential is promising. Plus, all the students who have gone through TSFA’s high school floral certification program will be the next generation of faithful consumers for years to come.