Expo Speakers and Presenter Bios

Tony Medlock AIFD, CFD, PFCI, AAF, AzMF Speaking at- Panel of Accredited Florists, Pathway to Accreditation 

Tony entered the floral industry in 1996 is the owner of PJs Flowers in Phoenix Arizona. Tony’s  has designed for the Tournament of Roses Parade, The Philadelphia International Flower Show, and designed several events across the country. He was on the SAF Design team for six years, and the team leader for two years. Tony was ASFA Designer of the year as well as The SAF Summer Vase off Challenge Winner. His work has appeared in Architectural Digest, Phoenix Home & Garden, as well as multiple National and International floral publications. 

Tony was accepted into The American Institute of Floral Designers in 2000 and is a Past President of the South West region. Also he was accepted into the Professional Floral Communicators International in 20025 and was inducted into AAF in 2006. Tony is also an Arizona Master Florist, and a past president of ASFA. Tony spends his free time with his wife Kim, their three hounds, and several amazing grandkids. 

Brian Vetter AAF AIFD PFCI Speaking at- Panel of Accredited Florists, Pathway to Accreditation 

Having spent 50 years in retail floral, Brian is now a freelance designer specializing in merchandising, design & education. He is an active member of the American Institute of Floral Designers, the American Academy of Floriculture, Professional Floral Communicators International, as well as past Director of the Arizona Master Florist Certification Program. Teaching AIFD education programs both on-line and in person, he works to help develop future industry professionals.

 Brian has been on the board of the Arizona State Florists Association for 35 years, being a 5 time past president. He is a member of the design team for the Society of American Florists,is active in his cities Community Outreach Program, and received the Arizona Federation of Garden Clubs Public Service Award, as well as the Honorary Lifetime Member, Crystal Crescent Award, and Hall of Fame for outstanding contributions to the floral industry by the Arizona State Florists Association.

Renee’ Potter AIFD, AzMF -  Speaking at- Panel of Accredited Florists, Pathway to Accreditation 

Renee' Potter is a fourth generation, award winning florist. She has been the owner of Fred's Flowers in Tempe since 2005. The future of the floral industry is her passion, especially when it comes to continuing education. Renee’ is the Education Director for the Arizona State Florists Association, instructing the state certification course, Arizona Master Florist. She was accredited by the American Institute of Floral Designers in 2016, along with Certified Evaluator and Judge in 2024. AIFD is important to her for personal growth, networking, inspiration and floral comradery. Renee's competitive spirit helped her place in design competitions such as Arizona Designer of the Year, California Top 10 and Mid-America Cup. This led her to represent the United States in Panama at the Gateway to America's Cup in 2024.