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Floral designing takes more skill and organization than many people think.
It’s so much more than simply sticking flowers in a vase.
Not only must you be creative and have an eye for design in general, but you must also be a people person, a great customer service representative, be able to multitask, have nimble fingers, and so much more.
The job can be extremely rewarding, but also quite stressful and fast-paced at times.
Honestly, who’s busier than a florist on Valentine’s Day?
In Louisiana, there are tons of great things a floral designer can do.
It’s a big wedding and honeymoon destination, there’s a parade somewhere, practically every week, family celebrations, and let’s not forget Mardi Gras.
If you’re thinking of becoming a floral designer in Louisiana, read on for some helpful information.
Article Table of Contents
Steps To Becoming A Floral Designer In Louisiana
Up until a few years ago, a person was actually required to take and pass a licensing exam to be a florist in Louisiana.
That is no longer the case.
Like most other states, Louisiana does not require any special license or certificate to become a floral designer.
It does help, however, to follow these steps if you’d like to be successful:
- Though not technically necessary, it’s a good idea to have your high school diploma or GED. This way, if you want to take degree programs in floral design, you’ll be ready.
- Find a job in the industry. Many places offer on-the-job training. Check out local floral shops, event planners, garden centers, markets, and even farms.
- Take some classes or enroll in a certificate or degree program at a local college. You’ll learn some great skills and a certificate or degree will really help you stand out in the competition.
- You can choose to become a certified floral designer by taking a 4-hour exam that costs $1700.00. This will put you above the competition and is an envious credential to have.
- Later on, you can opt to take some business and retail management courses. This will be helpful when going for management positions or if you want to open a business of your own.
Schools/Programs For Floral Design In Louisiana
1. Fat Cat Flowers
About The Program
Fat Cat Flowers is a premier, upscale shop that specializes in weddings of all sizes.
The owner, Diane, is an experienced floral designer who offers private classes.
Course Offerings
You are invited to sign up for a single class or several at once.
The class size is usually 8 people.
You’ll learn how to make vase and basket arrangements, wreaths, and hand-tied bouquets.
Address: 3914 Howard Ave. New Orleans, LA 70125
Phone: (504) 486-8580
Website: https://fatcatflowers.com
2. Baton Rouge Community College
About The School
Baton Rouge Community College is a 2-year degree and technical school.
They are accredited by the Louisiana Community and Technical College System.
Course offerings include automotive, culinary arts, criminal justice, and liberal arts.
Course Offering
The floral design program is a 6-month non-degree course.
Students will learn the fundamentals of floral design, as well as the business end.
Topics include the use of tools and equipment, care of flowers and plants, hand-tied arrangements, and large and small-scale creations for special occasions like proms and weddings.
Other topics covered are customer service, communication techniques, and inventory.
The price of the course is $1,695.
Address; 201 Community College Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Phone: (225) 308-6651
Website: https://mybrcc.edu
3. University Of Louisiana
About The School
Founded in 1901, the University of Louisiana is rated as one of the top Universities in the United States by The Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report.
Course Offering
Students in this course will learn about materials and equipment used in floral design.
They will also learn how to make various arrangements like corsages, bouquets, and vase arrangements.
Proper care and storage of organic materials are also discussed.
Please contact the school about the exact cost of tuition.
Address: 104 University Ave. Lafayette, LA 70594
Phone: (337) 482-1000
Website: https://louisiana.edu
Floral Designer Schools in Louisiana – Summary Table
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Fat Cat Flowers | 3914 Howard Ave. New Orleans, LA 70125 |
| Baton Rouge Community College | 201 Community College Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70806 |
| University Of Louisiana | 104 University Ave. Lafayette, LA 70594 |
Salary For Floral Designers In Louisiana
The average salary for a floral designer in Louisiana is $32,398.
Some floral designers in the state have reported incomes as high as $61,000 in larger cities.
Many factors must be considered when determining a floral designer’s salary, like location, type of business, experience, and education.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| New Orleans | $53,265 |
| Baton Rouge | $51,131 |
| Shreveport | $50,021 |
| Lafayette | $49,606 |
| Lake Charles | $49,303 |
| Kenner | $53,236 |
| Bossier City | $50,021 |
| Monroe | $48,998 |
| Alexandria | $48,204 |
| New Iberia | $49,316 |
Regional Salary in Louisiana
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge, LA | 140 | $34,420 | $16.55 | $47,120 | $23,420 |
| Lafayette, LA | 90 | $31,150 | $14.98 | $43,600 | $21,520 |
| Lake Charles, LA | 40 | $34,070 | $16.38 | $45,730 | $23,280 |
| Monroe, LA | 30 | $29,100 | $13.99 | $35,930 | $22,910 |
| New Orleans-Metairie, LA | 170 | $36,180 | $17.4 | $47,900 | $22,880 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City, LA | 60 | $33,140 | $15.93 | $44,400 | $23,170 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Louisiana require a license for floral designers?
Louisiana no longer requires a license for floral designers.
But up until 2019, they were the only state in the nation to require florists to pass a written and practical exam.
What cities in Louisiana have the highest rate of pay?
New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport are the highest-paying cities for floral designers.
What if I cannot find anywhere to take classes in Louisiana?
Many flower shops offer classes, so pop in or call around.
You may also look for online courses.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Floral Designer
Floral Design by State