About

A career as a Florist

Florists design and assemble displays with flowers, which they sell to businesses, event organisers and the general public through their homes, shops and market stalls.

Floral displays are created for many occasions including christenings, weddings, other special occasions, funerals and corporate events.

Also known as: Floral Designer

Skills/Knowledge

You'll need:

  • a good understanding of plant and flower care

  • to be artistic and have a good eye for colour, shape and design

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail

  • excellent verbal communication and customer service skills

  • to be patient, careful and sensitive to customers' needs

  • to work quickly, carefully and to tight deadlines

  • to sell products and services

  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

A driving licence is often necessary to drop off floral displays to customers or at venues.

Salary

NB These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary depending on the employer and the skills and experience of the employee.

£18,000
Typical salaries
range from
£28,000
Typical Hours

35-40 hours per week, between 9am and 5pm Monday to Saturday if working in a florist shop. There may sometimes be early starts to deliver flowers for celebrations or events and overtime may be required at busy periods such as Valentine's Day. Self-employed florists may work flexible hours, according to customers' needs. There may be part-time opportunities.

Day to Day
  • Visit flower markets early in the morning to buy flowers or order stock from a supplier

  • Arrange displays of plants and flowers in shop windows to attract customers

  • Talk to customers about their needs and help them choose flowers and plants

  • Advise customers on choosing flowers suitable for an occasion and plant care advice

  • Take orders in person, on the phone and online

  • Handle payments and keep order records

  • Prepare arrangements for weddings, celebrations and funerals

  • Arrange delivery to customers or set up flower displays at events

  • Keep up to date on new floristry techniques and trends

Working Environment

Most Florists work indoors, mainly in a workroom or the sales area of a shop - the workplace is usually cool to keep the flowers fresh. There will be a lot of standing at a shop counter or workbench.

There may be some travelling, delivering flowers or collecting arrangements and containers after events. Market stallholders will spend a great deal of time outdoors.

Training Available

Training is an essential part of any job, giving you the skills and knowledge you need to do your job safely and correctly. It also helps to strengthen your current skill set and prepares you for the next stage in your career.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships help you build the experience and skills that employers want to see. No matter what stage you’re at, they’ll help set you up for a bright future. There are lots of ways to get involved.

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