You can combine your love of flowers, art, and people by becoming a florist.You will be able to interact with all types of people as a floral designer.There are many options to become a florist.The more hands-on experience you have, the better you will be.
Step 1: A graduate from high school.
A high school or GED is required to be a florist.If you take classes at your school, you will be prepared to work as a florist.A photography course will help you see shapes, forms and patterns, which is useful for a floral designer.You should read as many books as you can about flowers, plants, and gardening.
Step 2: Get some formal training.
It is more difficult to enter and to be competitive in this field without some kind of formal training.The skills you need to become a florist can come from post-secondary education.Vocational schools and community colleges offer certificates and diplomas.Topics covered in your training include greenhouse maintenance, wedding design, decorating, business skills, event planning, and crop care.Look for programs approved by the American Institute of Floral Designers.If the school will give you flowers, containers, and supplies while you are in the program, you should check with them.It's important that you take home every floral design you make in the program to make sure you get the best value.A four year degree in floral design is also an option.
Step 3: Have a hands-on experience.
One of the best ways to improve your skills is to work with an experienced florist.You can see what it would be like to work as a florist.A cashier or delivery person at a florist shop is where many florists begin.There are opportunities at grocery stores, general merchandise stores and flower shops.Consider a formal apprenticeship.This gives hands-on experience without the cost of school.While you are working under someone else, learn as much as you can.Customer service and the business side should be paid attention to.Let the florist shop know that you're interested in becoming a florist by calling or visiting.There are opportunities for you to work, volunteer, or both.
Step 4: Become a floral designer.
A certified floral designer is offered by the American Institute of Floral Designers.A certification will show that you are serious about your craft and have the ability to do it.A hands-on design evaluation is required for certification.If you have formal florist education, you will score better on the exam.Being certified will help you stand out.
Step 5: Your portfolio should be prepared.
Take quality pictures of the arrangements you make and put them in a professional portfolio.Potential employers and clients can view your portfolio.Show the full range of your skills and highlight your best work.bouquets, funeral tributes, centerpieces, wedding designs, etc.Your portfolio should be organized in sections.There are weddings, funerals, bridal shower, etc.The price and description of the arrangement should be included in each picture.
Step 6: You should market your skills.
It is important to market your floral design skills if you are going to be self-employed.You can use social media to promote your work.If your friends or family need flowers for an event, ask them.Instead of buying gifts, give small arrangements to other people.Word-of-mouth will start to come in if people like your work.
Step 7: Contact potential employers.
If you want to work for someone else, contact the shop or store where you are interested in working.If it's a large company that has a lot of florists, apply online and check the website for job openings.If you want to find a florists job, it is best to call the shop or visit in person.
Step 8: Become a member of a professional association.
Many states have a florist association.You can find job opportunities on your state's website.Membership in the association will allow you to access the job board.Let your teachers and former classmates know that you are looking for a job in the field, if you received formal education.They might know of some opportunities.The websites have a list of florists who are members of the association.You can get in touch with the florists about employment as well.
Step 9: Prepare for the interview.
Bring your portfolio with you to the interview.Understand the floral industry.Customer service skills are very important for a florist, so make eye contact and communicate well during your interview.Business casual attire for women includes tailored shirts, sweaters, pants, skirts and dresses that are not too tight.It is recommended that skirts and dresses be knee length or longer.It should not be seen.Conservative closed toe shoes are black, brown, navy, and taupe.Business casual for men includes nice slacks or khakis and a button down shirt.Wear leather dress shoes as well.It's possible that you don't have to put together an arrangement for your interview.If you need to bring your own tools, ask.
Step 10: Look for inspiration.
Like the fashion and art world, the floral industry is always evolving.You need to look for inspiration in books, magazines, and everyday life.You can use the inspiration to inform your designs.A notebook of inspiration will help you keep track of new ideas.Inspiration can come from anywhere.Your next arrangement could be inspired by a walk in the park, the architecture of a building or a painting.
Step 11: You should practice as much as you can.
Design and create new arrangements.You should keep a sketchbook for your designs.The materials and techniques that you would like to use to create the design should be included.
Step 12: You can cultivate your own style.
A creative field is floral design.Florists recommend different designs, arrange displays, and execute vision for customers.You will set a part if you have your own point of view.What colors are you drawn to?Do you like paring flowers together?Are you a fan of delicate arrangements?How about monochromatic arrangements?
Step 13: Borrow from different styles.
As you study floral design, you will discover that there are some basic techniques that all florists learn.By merging different styles, you can come up with your own.You can identify elements that you like by looking at designs created by other florists.You can combine those elements into something that reflects your personality.Don't be afraid to try something new.You can play with different materials.