Education · 1 of 5

The path

There is no required qualification. You learn by doing, in a shop.

  1. 1

    High school

    Grades 11 and 12

    Take art and business classes. Get a weekend or holiday job in a flower shop or a garden center now.

  2. 2

    Work in a shop

    6 months to 2 years

    Processing flowers, cooler work, deliveries, then simple bouquets. This is the real training and most florists never do anything else.

  3. 3

    Take a design course, if you want one

    A few weeks to a year

    A community college or vocational certificate in floral design, usually a few months, teaching mechanics, color, shape and pricing.

  4. 4

    Build a portfolio

    Photograph everything you make. In this field the pictures get you hired, and they get you weddings.

  5. 5

    Certify or specialize

    Optional

    Earn the Certified Floral Designer credential from the American Institute of Floral Designers, or move into wedding and event work on your own.