Designer of Distinction: Jackie Lacey

Jackie Lacey, director of education and industry relations at Floriology Education Center in Jacksonville, Florida, gave an in-depth presentation and demonstration on April 27 of the floral trends of 2023. His humor and ability to communicate unique techniques of floral arrangement were a hit with attendees.

Jackie constructed several arrangements including a circular driftwood piece, tall arrangements of branches and roses, and a beautiful arrangement that included woven leaves. All of his pieces innately guided the eye through the design. He shared his thoughts on how trends evolve, his daring attempts at discovery and how they paid off, and some unique ways to add structure to a floral arrangement.

Jackie Lacey brought his more than 35 years of experience in the retail floral design and education to the 2023 Designer of Distinction. His portfolio includes an extensive background in the retail floral market and wedding/event design. Jackie now utilizes his experience to provide education and instructional design programs, market showroom set-up, private retail consulting, product development, as well as design and event planning. His current position as director of education and industry relations with Floriology, BloomNet, and Napco, and as senior design team specialist and senior editor of Floriology Magazine keep him on top of market trends, current design trends, industry education, and retail marketing.

Jackie has won numerous awards in floral design competitions in both multi-state, national, and local floral associations. His work has been published in Floriology Magazine, SAF, Flowers &, Modern Bride, Inside Weddings, and many others. National television exposure includes designing for WE TV programs “Platinum Weddings” and “I Do Over.” He has created designs for major motion pictures starring Drew Barrymore, Sandra Bullock, Meryl Streep, Diane Lane, Cheryl Ladd, Cindy Crawford, Richard Gere, Matthew McConaughey, and Leonardo DiCaprio.

He has done stage presentations and continuing education for multi–state associations and national industry leaders such as SAF, AFE, Virgin Farms Direct, Smithers-Oasis, BloomNet, FTD, Fitz Design Team, Floral Strategies, and John Henry Company. His designs have appeared in Tournament of Roses Parade floats, and he worked on the product development team for the world’s largest import/export show.

Jackie has served as a leader in numerous industry associations, including his current position as president of FSFA International, AFE trustee and board member, 2019-2021 AIFD National President, AIFD National Membership Committee Chair, CFD Committee, International Committee, and previous Southern AIFD board member.

His awards include the 2021 FSFA Lifetime Achievement Award, AIFD 2021 Special Award of Dedication, AIFD 2022 Special Award of Recognition, and 2022 GLFA National Service Award. Through his travel across the United States, Hong Kong, China, and Europe, Jackie has interacted with designers of all levels and shared this extensive background and experience with florists everywhere.

The Designer of Distinction is an annual fundraising event that presents an expert in the field of floral design demonstrating and discussing their work. Jackie’s presentation was followed by a raffle of the arrangements he created and a three-course catered lunch from Catering by Chriss and served by All About You Staffing.

Many thanks to sponsor Daniel B. Nunn Jr., Honorary Chair Gloria Nunn, and the Decorating Committee of the Rose Garden Circle.