"Besides the umbrella of buzzing energy contained within the Gateway Cup, I really love the creative diversity amongst all my fellow competitors - the inspiration stays with me!"

"I enjoyed the whole experience… meeting colleagues from other countries, bonding friendships and having a wonderful time! I enjoyed the surprise package just as much as the gala dinner:) Wonderful experience! Thank you again for the opportunity and invitation."

"The whole experience was so memorable and beautiful that it is hard to choose, but I would have to say my favorite part of the competition was the fashion category. There was a moment, where I was sure it wasn't going to get finished (I'm sure I could have worked on it for several more hours). But I just kept at it and was able to complete it. It was lovely to stand back and appreciate that I had accomplished what I had hoped to. This was also the last category, so there was a general sense of relief that the work was done. It was also great fun at the end of every design session to walk around and appreciate the amazing amount of creativity all in one room. Such a great group of talented designers and wonderful people!"

"LOVED the encouragement from coordinators and judges. Made the competition feel less like a competition and more like a race against time. It created a more fun relaxed vibe. More about friends gathering to create art but with a time limit. Because it was an international meet..I appreciated the friendships that were fostered."

"My favorite memory from the competition is how supportive everyone was. From the competitors to the judges to the sponsors, everyone is just rooting each other on and supporting each other. It truly was an atmosphere of individuals coming together and bonding over their shared love of floral design and artistry."