Local retail florists had the opportunity to attend an informative event about upcoming trends in floral design.

BW Wholesale Florists, located at 223 Fluvanna Ave. in Jamestown, held an educational event Wednesday for area florists, featuring lessons by a representative from Teleflora. The event included information about the latest techniques and trends in floral design.

Josette Vest, president of the Upstate New York Teleflora unit, said that this was the first time in many years that Teleflora has done an event in Jamestown.

According to Kevin Ylvisaker, education specialist for Teleflora, there are 43 Teleflora units throughout the country that each present two or three events per year.

“Tonight is a two-hour program where we will discuss new design styles and current products and materials,” Ylvisaker said.

Ylvisaker has been involved in the floral industry for more than 38 years. Although he began his journey to becoming a florist by driving a flower delivery truck, Ylvisaker now travels internationally to present design programs and teach classes.

According to Vest, floral products auctioned during the event will benefit the Teleflora Education Center in Oklahoma City.

BW Wholesale Florists provided ribbon, baskets and other materials available for purchase during the event.

Mike Ulrich, owner of BW Wholesale Florists, said that the company has been in his family since 1940.

“It began with my dad and uncle picking ferns and selling them wholesale,” Ulrich said. “My son also has a BW location in Pittsburgh.”

The Jamestown BW Wholesale Florists location serves retail flower shops within a 100 mile radius. It does not sell retail products.

According to Ulrich, the business has flowers delivered from Miami, California and Canada weekly.

Teleflora is a national company focused on connecting customers with florists.