Is Floral Design School Worth the Investment? A Case for Learning on the Job
I see it all the time in various floral design groups on social media: aspiring florists asking, "Which design course should I take?" or "Are these classes actually worth the money?"
The answer isn’t quite as simple as a "yes" or "no." On one hand, formal classes and courses are excellent for teaching the fundamentals. You learn the mechanics, the specific names of flowers, and the theories behind different styles and techniques. However, they are often quite pricey, and typically, the curriculum is strictly limited to the act of designing itself. The floral industry, however, is about much more than just arranging blooms.
I wanted to share my personal journey into the flower world—an alternative path to the classroom—and why I am so grateful it happened the way it did.
My Unconventional Entry into Floristry
My career didn't start in a classroom; it started in a busy flower shop in Miami. At the time, I was working part-time as a concierge and dating a designer at the shop. On my days off, I would often stop by just to say hello.
The shop owner had a strict but effective rule: if you were there socializing, you had better be prepared to help. Whether it was sweeping floors, breaking down boxes, or assisting a designer, there was no standing around. I happily jumped in, and eventually, a night shift position opened up.
They needed a clerk to assist customers with orders and wrap loose flowers—nothing that technically involved "designing." However, the shop was always filled with inspiration. They had a beautiful window display and kept at least five or six fresh arrangements for sale at all times.
The Power of Observation and Practice
The more time I spent in the shop, the more I paid attention. I watched how the lead designers constructed their pieces, observing their mechanics and color choices. During the quieter moments of the night shift, I began to play around with the flowers myself, putting small things together and experimenting with what I had seen during the day.
After a while, something incredible happened: my practice arrangements started selling right alongside the professional designers' work. In fact, many times, customers would pick my arrangements first.
After about six months of watching, learning, and practicing in real-time, I was offered a full-time designer position. The rest, as they say, is history.
Why You Should Consider the "Apprenticeship" Route
If you are debating paying for an expensive course, my advice is to pause and look for a local flower shop first.
Instead of a classroom, try to find a shop where you can offer your time. Be willing to help with the "grunt work"—sweeping, processing flowers, and assisting designers. It might not look glamorous at first, but this is where the real education happens. You will gain invaluable experience learning the rhythm of a shop, different design styles, and proper care techniques, all without paying tuition.
If you stick with it and show genuine passion, the payoff can be huge. By the time you are ready to design professionally, that shop won't just see a resume; they will see your dedication, your progress, and your work ethic. There is a very strong chance you will end up working for that same shop down the road because they already know you as a person and a worker.
I hope this perspective helps answer some of those burning questions about design school. sometimes, the best teacher is simply getting your hands dirty!
