Additional Information
There are a number of different ways to become a florist. Formal training
may not be necessary if you can find a florist willing to teach you.
"Many young people get into florist work this way. They'd probably have
to start out doing deliveries, but if they showed enough interest and insight,
they could probably work up to doing the designs in a few years," says florist
Richard Rousse.
Try applying for entry-level positions in flower shops or job shadowing
with an experienced florist.
Higher education is increasingly required, however. "Most shops are looking
for graduates of a floral design college level program, but some shops take
on new employees who are looking to learn from the bottom up," says Gaynor
Hardy. He works with a floral organization. "There is more emphasis today
on earning accreditation or some kind of certification that demonstrates that
an individual has a standard level of knowledge."
One of the most common ways to get your foot in the door is to complete
a commercial florist's certificate. This program teaches students the basics
of floral design and floriculture (the science of flowers), as well as the
tricks of the trade for running a florist business.
Another way to embark on a career as a florist is to take a floriculture
degree through a university horticultural studies program. While most courses
don't focus on floral design, they do provide an excellent scientific background
on flowers and experts say most employers appreciate this knowledge in an
employee.
"When looking into a program, check out the placement rates of that program,"
says Gary Watson of one florists' group. "Make sure your program meets the
national standards when you graduate."
Programs to consider include those in floriculture, floral design, horticulture
and ornamental horticulture.
Some florists go on to become certified with the exclusive American Institute
of Floral Designers. It has 1,000 members worldwide who have fulfilled its
rigid qualifications and are able to demonstrate advanced professional ability.