Meet the Stem Wars Contestants!

The floral world is about to witness another fantastic showdown as 16 talented floral designers step into the ring for Stem Wars—a high-stakes, bracket-style floral design competition where creativity, innovation, and passion will take center stage.

These top 16 contenders bring years (even decades!) of experience, unique artistic visions, and a shared love for flowers that transcends borders and styles. From seasoned educators and industry advocates to boutique studio owners and trendsetters, this lineup promises a dazzling display of talent. Here is a look at the Top 16 Contestants and their design submissions!

The Top 16

Andrea Sword-Chasse began her floral career in 2020 as a floral clerk in a local supermarket before finding her footing at Beach Plum Flower Shop under the mentorship of owner Lisa Greene, a Sylvia Cup winner and accomplished competitor. Inspired by Lisa’s expertise and passion, Andrea quickly fell in love with the artistry and emotion of floral design.

Since 2022, Andrea has managed Exeter Flower Shop—Lisa’s second location and sister store to Beach Plum—where she has continued to refine her technical skills, expand her creativity, and lead with a strong commitment to thoughtful, elevated design.

An active member of the floral community, Andrea has attended multiple SAF Next-Gen conferences, building meaningful connections and learning from industry leaders. Following the 2024 conference, she was featured in the Talent column of the May/June issue of Floral Management magazine.

Her design style leans toward garden-inspired, romantic tones, with a strong emphasis on texture, while also embracing opportunities to explore moodier, more dramatic palettes.

For this competition, her piece Stone & Current: A Violet Cascade draws inspiration from both technique and intuition. Influenced by a method she discovered at Profit Blast, Andrea incorporated shaved Midnight Oasis Foam to create spherical, rock-like forms. As the structure evolved, a natural landscape emerged—eventually taking on the movement of a cascading waterfall. With flowing elements like didiscus and curly willow, and a base of ageratum and hydrangea, the design captures a sense of whimsical motion, as if water is spilling over stone and pooling below.

Anna Dementieva AIFD, CFD, FSMD is an award-winning floral artist, creative director, and entrepreneur with over a decade of international experience in luxury floral design and large-scale installations. As the founder of Luxury Flowers Miami, her work is recognized for transforming botanical materials into immersive artistic environments that blend European tradition with contemporary design.

Her accolades include Florida State Designer of the Year (2023 and 2025), along with top placements in national and international competitions. She has also represented Ukraine in the Gateway to the Americas Cup (2024, 2026), further establishing her presence on the global stage.

Anna’s artistic approach centers on the relationship between nature, architecture, and human experience. Through sculptural compositions and installations, she elevates floral design beyond decoration—creating immersive, emotionally expressive works that invite reflection and connection.

For this competition, her piece Dancing Between Gravity explores the tension between structure and movement. A framework of dark stems creates a bold architectural base, while airy blooms of ageratum cascade downward in a soft, cloud-like flow. Delicate didiscus rises above, adding height and lightness. The asymmetrical composition allows natural movement to guide the eye, resulting in a contemporary floral sculpture that feels both dynamic and balanced.

Becky Memmo, AIFD, is an accredited floral designer with over 20 years of experience in the floral industry, specializing in wedding design. Originally from the Midwest, she owned and led a highly sought-after wedding floral boutique in the St. Louis area, completing more than 600 weddings featured in major publications.

She later expanded her work to destination weddings in Naples, Florida, before relocating to the Philadelphia suburbs. Over the past eight years, Becky has contributed to high-profile events, including the Philadelphia Flower Show and the First Lady’s Luncheon in Washington, D.C., while continuing to have her work recognized in leading wedding publications.

Today, Becky serves as the Senior Floral Strategy & Consultation Lead at FiftyFlowers, where she helps couples bring their wedding visions to life and contributes to product development. Her career has taken her across the U.S. and internationally, with design work in locations such as Costa Rica and Spain. Her style is versatile and client-focused, with a personal affinity for garden party aesthetics and blooms like poppies, butterfly ranunculus, zinnias, dahlias, and marigolds.

For this competition, her piece Sweet Serenity draws inspiration from the soft hues of ageratum and didiscus. Designed to feel calm and whimsical, the arrangement features a natural base of equisetum, moss, and grasses, layered with airy sanguisorba for texture and movement. The blooms add a dreamy pop of color, while subtle details—like tucked-away dragonflies—offer a gentle nod to a peaceful garden moment.

Brandy Ferrer AIFD, CFD, TMF is an award-winning floral designer and owner of Simply Beautiful Floral Company in Gilmer, Texas, where she has led a successful business for over a decade. Her accolades include Texas Designer of the Year (2024), winner of the Frankie Shelton Cup (2023), and 2nd Place in the Mid-America Cup (2024).

With a background in Elementary Education and Educational Leadership, Brandy brings a strong passion for teaching into the floral industry. She serves as Retail Director for the Texas State Florists’ Association, is a Board Member for the South Central Chapter of AIFD, and contributes to the AIFD Foundation Board of Trustees. She is also a designer for the New York Botanical Garden’s Orchid Dinner at The Plaza Hotel and a featured presenter at AIFD Symposium events, including an upcoming Main Stage presentation in 2026.

Brandy is dedicated to mentoring fellow florists and advancing innovation within the industry, regularly contributing to Texas in Bloom magazine.

For this competition, her piece Violet Cascade is a sculptural arrangement inspired by the natural movement of water. Flowing from a tall bronze vessel, the design creates the impression of a botanical waterfall. Vibrant clusters of ageratum form rich currents of color, while delicate didiscus weaves throughout, adding height, softness, and an ethereal quality. Hydrangea provides a strong foundation, supporting the cascading form and enhancing the seamless flow. The harmonious palette of violet, lavender, and soft blue tones brings balance to the composition, capturing both structure and movement in a dynamic, expressive design.

Brian DeLong-Weismiller is the florist behind Bud Weismiller Flowers, a Las Vegas–area shop built on the belief that flowers have the power to say what words sometimes cannot. Guided by the idea that life is hard—and flowers help—his work centers on creating meaningful, joy-filled moments through design.

Drawing inspiration from garden-grown blooms, the raw beauty of the Las Vegas desert, vintage vessels, and local makers, Brian’s designs reflect both nature and the deeply human reasons people send flowers. From celebrations to quiet, everyday gestures, his work embraces the full emotional spectrum of floral giving. Known for lush, expressive, and slightly unexpected designs, his shop serves the Las Vegas Valley 24/7—because meaningful moments don’t follow a schedule.

For this competition, his piece Out of Frame explores the idea of nature refusing to be contained. A simple wooden frame suggests the structure of a traditional painting, while the flowers break beyond its boundaries, transforming into a living meadow. Soft clouds of blue ageratum and airy didiscus rise above the frame, creating movement and expansion, while a grounded base of greenery and ranunculus adds warmth and depth.

Blurring the line between art and nature, the design becomes a reflection on growth, freedom, and the beauty of flowers in their most natural state—reminding us that the most meaningful arrangements are the ones shared in real life, not just captured in a frame.

Carol Valderrama is a Venezuelan floral designer and owner of The Blooming Floral Café in Tampa’s Seminole Heights. With over 25 years of experience, she has created a unique space that blends a professional floral studio with a Parisian-inspired coffee house. Designed as a Victorian-style sanctuary, her shop offers a welcoming environment where community and beauty come together—inviting guests to enjoy fresh blooms alongside specialty lattes.

Carol’s work reflects her passion for creating spaces and designs that feel both elegant and inviting, rooted in her love for florals and connection.

For this competition, her piece Amethyst Whispers is an abstract expression inspired by the soft, delicate nature of the blooms themselves. Through gentle movement, subtle texture, and a refined color story, the design evokes a quiet, calming presence—capturing the essence of floral beauty in its most graceful and understated form.

Casey Sims began her career in art history and distribution before transitioning into interior design, eventually discovering floral design as a natural extension of her passion for visual art. After selling her art business, she fully committed to floristry— a decision that led her to work with and manage flower companies across the country.

She is now based in Nashville, Tennessee, where she has spent the past five years designing at Rose Hill Flowers—one of the city’s most celebrated shops, frequently named “Best Florist” by Nashville Scene. There, she creates upscale designs for a diverse range of clients across private, corporate, event, and music industries.

During her time at Rose Hill, Casey has continued to grow as both a designer and artist. The team recently earned “Best in Show” and the “People’s Choice Award” at the Fleurs de Ville competition at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens, with their installation also recognized among the top two in the show’s history. She also placed third in the “Best in Blooms” design competition.

For this competition, her piece Sentiments of Spring celebrates the beauty of the season’s return. Inspired by the textures, colors, and natural movement of spring blooms, the design reflects themes of rebirth, renewal, and rejuvenation—capturing the uplifting energy that comes with warmer days and new beginnings.

Courtney Champagne is an agricultural science and floral design instructor at Silsbee High School in Southeast Texas, where she leads Tiger Lily, a student-run floral shop. With over 15 years in education, she has developed a hands-on program that blends creative design, real-world business experience, and FFA leadership.

She is also the founder of Cultivated Blooms, a platform dedicated to supporting floral educators through curriculum development, retreats, and online resources. Courtney is passionate about helping both teachers and students grow with confidence, creativity, and practical skills.

For this competition, her piece Wild Elegance is inspired by the natural movement and airy texture of ageratum and didiscus. Designed to feel organic yet intentional, the arrangement balances soft lavender tones with vibrant accents of yellow achillea and cymbidium orchid. Flowing bear grass adds graceful lines and movement, enhancing the design’s sense of energy. The result is a fresh, garden-inspired composition that feels playful, dynamic, and refined.

Elizabeth and Ruth of Kati Mac Floral Design bring a collaborative spirit and a shared passion for meaningful work to everything they create. With a combined 17 years of experience in the floral industry, the duo works side by side on weddings and events, approaching each design as a true team.

Based in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Kati Mac Floral Design is a nonprofit florist with a mission to employ and train individuals with intellectual disabilities, providing opportunities for meaningful work in a supportive and inclusive environment. More than half of the shop’s team members have special needs, and Elizabeth and Ruth are proud to design in a space where creativity, growth, and purpose go hand in hand. While they are the named designers for this competition, their work represents the entire Kati Mac community.

For this competition, their piece Joyful Inclusion reflects the heart of their mission. Inspired by the idea of finding joy through inclusivity, the design plays with complementary color while thoughtfully allowing ageratum and didiscus to remain the focal point. A vibrant squash is incorporated as a non-floral element, adding a bold pop of color without overpowering the blooms. The result is a playful, artful composition that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and the beauty of creating with purpose.

Jolene Powell AIFD discovered her passion for flowers at just 17 years old, beginning a journey rooted in curiosity, education, and creative growth. After earning her floral design certification and continuing her education through classes and industry events, she achieved her AIFD accreditation and went on to own and operate a full-service flower shop for over nine years.

Today, Jolene shares her love of floral design by teaching at her local career and technical center, as well as leading hands-on classes at events. A dedicated competitor, she embraces every opportunity to grow and push her creativity. Her accolades include North Carolina Floral Designer of the Year (2025), NCSFA Bridal Bouquet Winner (2024), and multiple competition placements across categories such as miniature bouquet, tablescape, and more.

Known for incorporating unique techniques and bold ideas into her work, Jolene approaches each design with a spirit of exploration—always ready to learn, evolve, and bloom.

For this competition, her piece Plume Peacock Crazy is a celebration of fearless creativity. Inspired by the idea that artistry cannot be contained, the design takes on the form of a peacock in full display. Airy didiscus bursts outward like extravagant feathers, while rich ageratum forms the vibrant core. The result is a joyful, expressive composition that reflects Jolene’s belief that floral design is an art form where color, curiosity, and imagination are meant to shine.

Kat Castagnoli AIFD, CFD, CCF is a seasoned freelance floral designer, instructor, and judge with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Based in Orange County, California, she has worked with several high-end retail florists while also designing hundreds of weddings, events, and large-scale installations.

Kat received her floral design certificate from the Golden West College School of Floral Design and holds multiple professional accreditations, including California Certified Florist (CCF), CFD, and AIFD. Throughout her career, she has participated in notable events such as Art Alive at the San Diego Museum of Art and Fleurs de Villes at South Coast Plaza. She has also studied under and been mentored by renowned designers including Phil Rulloda, Jenny Thomasson, Per Benjamin, Hitomi Gilliam, and Max Van de Sluis.

A returning participant, Kat brings both experience and enthusiasm to the competition, continuing to explore creative and unexpected approaches in her work.

For this competition, her piece "Brassica Bloom" is inspired by the rich purple-blue hues of ageratum and didiscus. To enhance and contrast these tones, Kat incorporates unexpected elements—purple vegetables—creating a distinctive and playful composition that highlights color in a bold, unconventional way.

Martha Aaron AIFD is a passionate floral artist with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Her journey began with a high school floral design class, sparking a lifelong dedication to the craft. Over the years, she has earned numerous accolades, including induction into the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), Certified Evaluator/Judge (CEJ) certification, and Texas Master Florist designation.

Martha is an accomplished competitor, having won Arizona Designer of the Year three times and most recently earning Best in the West (2026). She is the owner of Mountain High Flowers in Sedona, now in its ninth year, and has served as past president of the Arizona State Florists Association. Known for continually pushing creative boundaries, her work reflects both technical expertise and artistic exploration.

For this competition, her piece Meadow Unbound captures the feeling of nature breaking free from restraint. Plum branches create a structural foundation, while airy didiscus rises above like wildflowers in motion. Soft clusters of ageratum form textured clouds of color, complemented by helleborus, dianthus, and layered botanical elements. Thoughtful details—such as woven lily and bear grass, sheet moss, and reaching lepidium—add depth and craftsmanship, evoking a natural landscape where cultivated design gives way to the untamed beauty of a meadow.

Nelson Enrique González Prieto is a floral designer, Creative Director of Evolution Eventos, and founder of Evolution Academy, bringing more than 23 years of experience in the event and floral design industry. His work is recognized for its structural elegance, masterful use of color, and the creation of high-impact floral experiences. Over the course of his career, he has contributed to more than 2,400 social and corporate events across Venezuela and the United States.

In addition to his design work, Nelson is deeply committed to education, training new floral professionals within the Latino community in the U.S. Through his teaching, he shares practical methodologies centered on excellence and profitability, helping others build sustainable careers in the industry.

His approach reflects a forward-thinking vision of floral design, blending contemporary techniques with a strong emphasis on proper flower care and hydration. By combining technical precision, sustainability, and creative freedom, Nelson produces designs that preserve the integrity of botanical materials while elevating their artistic expression.

For this competition, his design titled Peace explores a return to the origin of everything. Inspired by the simplicity of a sunny spring day and the universal experience of gathering flowers in the countryside, the piece reflects a deeply human connection to nature.

In a world often overwhelmed by negativity, Nelson’s work invites a moment of stillness. Through painting and sculpting with flowers, he seeks to offer a sense of calm—reminding viewers of the quiet beauty and peace that nature can provide.

Shayai Lucero (Pueblo of Acoma/Pueblo of Laguna) is an international award-winning floral designer, entrepreneur, and advocate. As the owner and matriarch of Earth & Sky Floral Designs and Gallery, her work blends floral artistry with Pueblo traditions, creating designs rooted in cultural storytelling and connection to the land.

A graduate of the University of New Mexico with a degree in Biology and a minor in Chemistry, Shayai’s path has been shaped by leadership, resilience, and service. Since purchasing her floral shop in 2008, she has become a recognized voice for rural and Native American entrepreneurs, with her work featured by platforms such as Google, New Mexico Magazine, and Fleurvana. In addition to her design career, she is a knowledge keeper of traditional Pueblo healing practices and an active advocate for Indigenous rights, education, and women’s entrepreneurship.

For this competition, her piece Tumbleweed Spring reflects the spirit of the New Mexico landscape and the cultural significance of wind within Pueblo tradition. Inspired by the movement of spring winds carrying change, pollen, and renewal, the design features a tumbleweed armature that embodies motion and journey. As it moves across the desert, blooms of ageratum and didiscus emerge within the form like treasures carried by the wind—symbolizing discovery, transition, and the connection between nature and heritage.

Tanna Victory AIFD, CFD, CF of Grand Rapids, Michigan is an accomplished freelance floral designer with over 40 years of experience in the industry. Throughout her career, she has developed a distinctive approach rooted in drawing inspiration from everyday objects, translating the ordinary into expressive and thoughtful floral designs.

In addition to her creative work, Tanna is deeply committed to mentoring and education. She is passionate about supporting the next generation of floral designers, sharing her knowledge and encouraging others to explore their own artistic voice within the industry.

For this competition, her piece Wild Within explores the idea that no matter how refined or structured a setting may appear, creativity and nature cannot be contained. Through intentional design choices and natural movement, the piece reflects the balance between control and freedom—where instinct and organic growth push beyond boundaries, allowing the wild beauty of florals to emerge.

The Grand Prize

Each week, the designs with the most votes will compete in a March Madness-style competition. The winner will be announced on April 10th and will receive a $500 Credit to Ball SB, a Free One-Year Subscription to Details Flowers Software, a Free One-Year Subscription to Floral Management Magazine, and a complimentary ticket to the 2026 SAF Conference at Amelia Island. 

Thank you to Ball SB, Society of American Florists, and Allure Farms for their valued partnership and prize contributions throughout this competition.