How to Become a Florist

Are you wondering how to become a florist?

From weddings to funerals, flowers are there to celebrate every important milestone in one’s life. For those looking for a hands-on career that provides freedom and financial rewards one option to consider is becoming a florist.

Florists use their creativity to create everything from vase arrangements to fruit baskets that customers use to commemorate the special moments of their lives. Despite the lackadaisical economy, the flower industry continues to boom as flowers are used at weddings, births, funerals, anniversaries, birthdays, hospitals, etc.

No formal schooling is necessary to become a florist and many learn through on the job training or are self taught. There are specialized design schools that can elevate a florists skills and design ability, but they are not necessary for those just starting out. There are many books and web-tutorials that can be utilized to develop the craft. Many florists begin arranging flowers as a hobby and progress to work for another florist or for a chain or grocery store with a floral section before deciding to branch out and open their own business.

When deciding to open a floral shop, there are numerous factors to consider. The location of the business is vital to the businesses success. The wealth of the surrounding area impacts the amount that can realistically be earned and successful marketing techniques are necessary to lure in customers. Establishing a client base and keeping the business clean and attractive to potential clients is a requirement for managing a successful flower shop.

Resources

How to Become a Wedding Planner
How to Become an Interior Decorator
How to Get a Top Degree in Horticultural Science

Establishing relationships with growers, owning the tools and equipment necessary, and having keen business skills are also necessary skills. A florist must not only use their creativity to produce quality and exclusive flower designs that are color coordinated, but must also have a pleasant personality and be approachable to potential customers. A successful florist must be able to manage the store as well as be the lead floral designer. Managing a flower shop includes setting prices, hiring employees, taking orders, tracking shipments and deliveries, as well as marketing to draw customers into the store.

The median salary for a florist is $23,530. While this is not especially high, many florists feel that the trade off of earning less is worth the ability to be their own boss and to use their floral designs to touch people’s emotions. Many florists have very creative personalities and find much joy in creating original designs and meeting the needs of their customers.

Florists must also understand that there will be busy and slow periods within their work. Valentine’s Day is a particularly busy day for florists, as is Mother’s Day and Prom season. Clients will oftentimes call or email with an order that needs to be filled immediately. Understanding the client’s urgency and meeting the demands of the order in a timely fashion is another necessary skill.
Becoming a florist is not for everyone. However, those with an interest in flowers, a creative mind, a flair for design, and a firm understanding of the challenges of running a business are well suited for this career.

With this information about how to become a florist, you’re well on your way to the career you’ve envisioned.