How to become a retail florist

How to become a Retail Florist

Becoming a retail florist involves a combination of education, practical experience, and a passion for flowers and design. Here is a snapshot of the pathway to the career:

High School Diploma or Equivalent
Most entry-level retail florist positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. High school education provides a foundation in basic communication and math and organizational skills, and it lays the groundwork for further learning. Seek out courses in art, design, horticulture, and business.

Floral Design Education
While formal education may not be mandatory, consider enrolling in floral design courses or programs offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or private floral schools. These courses teach essential skills in floral arranging, design principles, color theory, and flower care.

The following are just a few of the many excellent floral design programs available in the US. All are taught by experienced professionals in the industry and include a practical, hands-on training component. When choosing a program, it's important to research each one to determine which 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.
• Longwood Gardens – Located in Pennsylvania, Longwood Gardens offers a Professional Floral Design Certificate Program, which covers topics such as design principles, wedding and event design, and business management.
• Floral Design Institute – Based in Portland, Oregon, the Floral Design Institute 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.
• Minneapolis Community and Technical College – This Floral Design Program covers topics such as design principles, flower arranging, event design, and more.
• City College of San Francisco – This college offers a Floral Design and Shop Management Program, which includes courses in floral design, business management, and marketing.

Apprenticeship or Entry-Level Position
Seek an apprenticeship or entry level position at a flower shop or floral studio. Working under experienced florists will give you practical, hands-on experience and insights into the industry. It will help you develop customer interaction and service skills, which are essential for retail florists.

Develop Design Skills
Continue to practise floral designs on your own and experiment with different flower combinations, color schemes, and styles to enhance your creativity and skills.

Build a Portfolio
Create a portfolio showcasing your best floral designs. This can be an online portfolio or a physical collection of photographs to showcase your skills to potential employers or clients.

Certifications and Professional Organizations
While not always required, obtaining certifications from reputable floral organizations demonstrates expertise and dedication to the field, providing an added layer of credibility and trust for clients.

• American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) offers the Certified Floral Designer (CFD) designation, which is recognized worldwide. To earn this certification, candidates must pass a rigorous exam that assesses their knowledge and skills in various aspects of floral design, including floral arrangements, techniques, and industry standards. AIFD is a highly esteemed organization within the floral community and hosts various educational symposiums.
• Society of American Florists (SAF) confers the Professional Floral Communicators - International (PFCI) designation. This certification is geared towards retail florists, educators, and industry professionals who excel in floral design and possess excellent communication and presentation skills. SAF provides educational programs, marketing resources, industry data, advocacy efforts, and networking opportunities for its members.
• Floral Design Institute (FDI) offers a Certified Floral Designer (CFD) program, which is structured to provide a comprehensive education in floral design. To become certified, candidates must complete a series of courses and pass a final exam.
• Various regional and state floral associations offer certifications or recognition for retail florists. These certifications may vary depending on the specific requirements and offerings of each association.
• Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers (ASCFG) can be beneficial for retail florists who are interested in sourcing locally grown, specialty flowers for their arrangements.
• American Floral Endowment (AFE) is a charitable organization dedicated to funding research and educational initiatives that benefit the floral industry.

Understanding Business Management
If you plan to open your own flower shop, it is crucial that you understand basic business principles, such as inventory management, budgeting, and traditional and social media marketing. While some knowledge in these areas can be gained through apprenticeships and/or entry-level roles, aspiring retail florist entrepreneurs may wish to take courses in these and related business subjects.

Stay Updated
Keep abreast of current floral trends, industry innovations, and the availability of seasonal flowers. Staying updated ensures you can offer fresh and relevant designs to your customers.

Network and Build Relationships
Attend industry events, workshops, and seminars to network with other florists and suppliers. Building connections can lead to potential job opportunities or collaborations.

Continuous Learning
The world of floral design is constantly evolving, so continue learning and seeking opportunities for professional development to enhance your skills and knowledge.