Interested in learning how to become a florist? I've worked my way up from floral delivery to owning my own shop. I've tried it all, worked every job in the flower shop, and hired dozens of wannabe florists over the years.
Here are the three most common ways that people use when they learn how to become a florist. Each has its ups and downs, its problems and its advantages.
1. Attending a Private Floral Design School
Pros: The best floral design training out there, Accelerated learning
Cons: Cost, Difficult to find
Do some searching for a private floral design school in your area and you may be disappointed with the results. Most people have to move away to attend these schools, and they're already expensive enough without being able to crash at your parent's house. Still, the hands-on, one-on-one training you get is second to none. This is well worth the cash if you have it lying around.
2. Earning an Associate's Degree
Pros: Inexpensive, Looks good on an application
Cons: No personalized training, Long training period, Have to eat crappy cafeteria food
Junior colleges offer two-year degrees in "applied science" with an emphasis in floral design. The biggest downside is that it often takes four semesters (about two years) worth of school. On the upside, you can get financial aid without much work, and you can work a part-time job while you take classes.
3. Taking a Certification Test
Pros: No training necessary, Inexpensive
Cons: No guarantee you'll earn the certification, No training
This is really only a good option for people who have a background in floral design, like people who worked in family flower shops or took a few courses in floral design but dropped out. Call your state's certification granting agency for information on where to take the tests.
