How to become a florist

Is becoming a florist right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do florists do?
Career Satisfaction
Are florists happy with their careers?
Personality
What are florists like?

Still unsure if becoming a florist is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a florist or another similar career!

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How to become a Florist

Becoming a florist requires a combination of education, experience, and passion for the profession. Here is a detailed description of the steps you can take:

  • Research the profession: Before you begin any formal training or education, it's important to research the profession to get a better understanding of what it entails. You can do this by talking to local florists, reading books and articles, and attending industry events.
  • Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent: Most florist positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain a General Education Development (GED) certificate.
  • Gain experience: To gain experience in the field, consider working in a flower shop or taking a part-time job in a floral department of a supermarket. This will help you gain hands-on experience and learn basic skills, such as creating bouquets and arrangements, caring for flowers and plants, and customer service.
  • Complete formal education: Formal education is not always required, but it can be helpful in gaining skills and knowledge to become a successful florist. Consider enrolling in a certificate or diploma program in floral design or horticulture at a vocational school, community college, or university.
  • Obtain certification: Certification can help you stand out from other applicants when seeking employment or starting your own business (see below).
  • Develop your skills: Continue to hone your skills by attending workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses. This will help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques in the industry.
  • Consider apprenticeships: Apprenticeships can provide you with valuable experience and networking opportunities. Contact local florists to inquire about apprenticeship programs.
  • Start your own business: If you have enough experience and knowledge, consider starting your own floral business. This will require additional skills such as business management, marketing, and accounting.

Floral Design Programs
The following are just a few of the many excellent floral design programs available in the US. When choosing a program, it's important to research each one to determine which one is the best fit for your needs and career goals.

  • New York Botanical Garden: The NYBG offers a Floral Design Certificate Program, which includes courses in design principles, flower arranging, event design, and more. The program is taught by industry professionals and is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in the floral industry.
  • Longwood Gardens: Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania offers a Professional Floral Design Certificate Program, which covers topics such as design principles, wedding and event design, and business management. The program is taught by experienced professionals in the industry and includes hands-on training.
  • Floral Design Institute: The Floral Design Institute in Portland, Oregon offers a variety of courses and programs for floral designers, including a Professional Florist Program, which includes courses in floral design, business management, and marketing. The program is taught by experienced professionals and is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the industry.
  • Minneapolis Community and Technical College: The Minneapolis Community and Technical College in Minnesota offers a Floral Design Program, which covers topics such as design principles, flower arranging, event design, and more. The program is taught by experienced professionals in the industry and includes hands-on training.
  • City College of San Francisco: The City College of San Francisco in California offers a Floral Design and Shop Management Program, which includes courses in floral design, business management, and marketing. The program is taught by experienced professionals in the industry and is designed to prepare students for careers in the floral industry.

Certifications
Certification for florists is not always required, but it can be helpful in demonstrating your skills and knowledge to potential employers or clients. Here are some of the most well-known certification programs for florists:

  • American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD): The AIFD offers the Certified Floral Designer (CFD) designation, which is recognized worldwide as a symbol of excellence in the floral industry. To become certified, you must complete an application process, including passing an online test and a design evaluation.
  • Society of American Florists (SAF): The SAF offers the Professional Floral Designer (PFD) certification, which is designed to demonstrate a florist's commitment to professionalism and skill. To become certified, you must complete an online course and pass a test.
  • Floral Design Institute (FDI): The FDI offers a Certified Floral Designer (CFD) program, which is designed to provide a comprehensive education in floral design. To become certified, you must complete a series of courses and pass a final exam.