Working with flowers is the perfect way to earn a reasonable income while using your creativity to create beautiful arrangements. A career as a florist is ideal for anyone who wishes to be his or her own boss and do something different and exciting every day. Read more to find out if a career in floristry is right for you.
What do florists do?Floral designers have a number of responsibilities. They must choose selections of flowers based on customer needs and what is currently in seasons. Then, they have to trim the flowers and arrange them in a manner that is visually pleasing. Florists must also help customers choose the floral arrangements and plan larger arrangements for events such as weddings and funerals.
Where do florists work?Most florists work in independent floral shops, although some work at grocery stores or through internet floral chains such as 1-800 Flowers. Their floral arrangements are used at a variety of events, including formal and semi formal high school dances, weddings, wedding anniversaries, funerals, religious holidays, and all kinds of other special occasions.
Education and TrainingHigher education is not always necessary for a career in floral design, although it certainly can help those who intend to open their own businesses. In general, most florists hold high school diplomas and learn the rest of the skills on the job or through an apprenticeship. Those who are serious about having a successful career in floral design should consider getting certified in professional floral arranging through the American Institute of Floral Designers. This is the best way for cashiers and delivery workers at floral shops to ensure an advancement, and can help grocery store florists transition to a better paying job at an independent floral shop.
SalarySalaries vary greatly for floral workers, depending on their level of experience and the type of floral shops in which they work. Cashiers rarely earn significantly more than a minimum wage salary, but senior floral designers can earn a respectable income. The average annual salary for floral designers is $45,000.