Flowers are hailed the world over for their subtle and expressive properties. In the modern world, floral design is mostly associated with floristry found in flower shops, to be displayed at major events, or used on holiday celebrations. Today, the art of flower arranging is evolving movement and is gaining new adherents from several countries.

The story of WAFA begins in the United Kingdom, where the members of the "National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies" (NAFAS) of Great Britain decided to create an international federation representing all floral arrangement societies in the world. NAFAS created the position of "International Affiliates Chairman" in 1972, which was since held by a few members who would eventually become some of the initial WAFA Committee members.

In 1978, NAFAS contacts with the overseas affiliates were strengthened through an International Course held at West Dean College in Sussex. The following year, a letter was sent out to members outlining proposals for a World Association, and these were approved at a meeting held in London on April 1980. Delegates and observers from ten countries, some of whom became founding members, were present. WAFA was officially formed during a second meeting in June 1981 with twice as many delegates and observers in attendance this time, from Australia, Belgium, Bermuda, Canada, Cyprus, France, Hong Kong, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Kenya, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, North Ireland, Spain, South Africa, United States of America and Zimbabwe. All of them, with the exception of Cyprus, Monaco and Spain became member countries, while Jamaica, Japan, South Africa and South Korea officially joined WAFA later on.

The "World Association of Flower Arrangers" (WAFA) is an international governing body coordinating floral art events and standards in 29 member countries around the world. It celebrates the diversity of this art-form, bringing together fresh ideas, as well as helping to cement trade and friendships between nations, to hold flower arranging competitions and exhibitions, to set international standards and re-enforce the ties between countries through exchange visits and International Seminars. It creates beautiful and artistic exhibits using natural plant materials.

The Management of WAFA is conferred upon a host country for a mandate of three years. A World Flower Show precedes an International Seminar, where Competitions, International Demonstrations, Honorary International Exhibitions, National Demonstration, General Assembly, Trade Fair and Associated events are held to encourage the members throughout the world to join this worthwhile activity and benefit from the traditions, customs and skills of the host country. The membership worldwide engenders friendship and has the common bond of the love of flowers and through this medium strengthens the link of international relations. Since its inception, the membership has increased steadily with new countries applying each term. WAFA is now recognised internationally as a highly respected association.