FLOAT 2017

“Oh, Canada…..”

Members of the Canadian design team pose with their plaque after taking Second Place in the Large Sculpture Competition at FLOAT 2017.

“OMG…They’re InstaFamous!”

One of FLOAT's biggest draws is their strong academic line up each and every year. Here, social media darlings Tommy and Scott DeLorenzo of Balloons by Tommy delight a class using neon balloons.

“To Have and to Hold….”

In 2015, two of our delegates, Peter Schmaus and Magda Calvo, met and fell and in love. So it was only fitting that they held their wedding ceremony two years later at FLOAT!

“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers….”

Dawn Girtman, one of our many Bonus Class instructors, demonstrates the basics of floral design. The great thing about FLOAT's Bonus Class program is that it allows general delegates the chance to gain exposure as an instructor while sharing a special skill set he or she might have that can help others.

A Job Well Done

The Designer Awards Gala isn't just about giving away design prizes...it's also about recognizing those who have worked so hard to make FLOAT possible. Here, Alexa Rivera stands for a round of applause for her role as producer of the 2017 convention.

All Hands on Deck!

Students work to create their own elegant creations in Tope Abulude's Hands-On Centerpiece Workshop. This class had an additional lab fee for materials needed, but many students shared that the experience they gained could not have a price tag placed on it.

Class has Begun

The delegates have spoken! Their single most important desire of FLOAT is to have strong, quality classes aimed at working professionals, and we do our best to accommodate them.

Do It Yourself!

FLOAT's Master Classes and Workshops really give students a chance to learn by doing. Here, a packed house attends the custom vinyl cutting master class at FLOAT 2017.

Easy Rider

FLOAT's Opening Night Welcome Party always includes lots of colorful thematic attire. Here, Phil Whitehead asks "Orange You Glad FLOAT is Back?"

Get Your Hands Dirty

There are always lots of hands-on opportunities at FLOAT. Here, delegates help prepare design elements for the Designer Awards Gala.

Just clownin’

One of the best parts about FLOAT is the lasting friendships that are developed. Making friends from all over the world means a happier life for you as well as strong business connections that will help grow your company in ways you hadn't realized.

On the Road to Greatness!

Dante Longhi, CBA, and his team of hard-working designers took top honors in the Large Sculpture Competition with this fun design.

One last kiss

As the lights dimmed on FLOAT 2017, let's toast the happy couple once again!

Persistence of Time

Robin Veach took Top Honors in both the Photo Op and Entrance Decor competitions with her unique style and design. In fact, she would have been almost a lock for Designer of the Year had she chosen not to withdraw from the Live Table Centerpiece Competition.

Standing at the Ready

Tope Abulude prepares for the 50 students he's about to guide through his Hands-On Centerpiece Workshop. Later that week, Tope would go on to win the Don Cheeseman Career Achievement Award for his amazing design work and industry leadership skills.

The Designer Awards Gala

The grand finale of FLOAT, the Designer Awards Gala is the chance for our competitors to be recognized for their efforts. And at the 2017 event, FLOAT's DAG featured design work by Qualatex, Betallic AND Anagram, all in the same room!

We Be Jammin’…

One of the more popular and signature events of FLOAT is the "Foil Jam" where designers get to play with all kinds of foil balloons. Here, Sam Cremeens shows off his impromptu foil balloon motorcycle.

Welcome to FLOAT!

The Opening Night event at FLOAT is always filled with fun and excitement. Here delegates are greeted by the FLOAT Faculty and Production Crew as they enter the room.