How to Become a Floral Designer in Montana

If you have ever spotted a floral arrangement set up in a visually appealing way, you should understand that this was done by the hands of someone who clearly knew what they were doing.

They have the training, skills, and know-how to create the kind of floral arrangement that makes the most sense for their customers and the occasion they require them for.

Therefore, you might take an interest in becoming a floral designer yourself.

Let’s take a look at what it takes to become a floral designer in Montana right now.

Steps to Become a Floral Designer in Montana

Obtaining a job in floral design in Montana does not necessarily require extensive formal training as far as the heights that one goes to in the academic world.

It is possible to obtain a job in the industry with just a high school diploma or GED.

However, it might be necessary to look for certain certifications to be taken more seriously in the industry.

After all, you want something that can help set you apart in an industry where everyone can start to look like they provide the same services.

Determine Your Career Journey

The first thing to do to become a floral designer in Montana is to make a roadmap for yourself about where you would like for your career to go.

Laying out your objectives before you begin pursuing a career in floral design is a great way to ensure that you stay on the right track as you accomplish all of your goals.

Some people set up their own businesses around their skills as floral designers.

However, others take a traditional job from a service that already exists in the area.

Either way, you must know what you aim for before beginning the journey.

Seek Out Classes and Courses

You must make sure you get enrolled in the classes and courses that you need to take to provide yourself with the knowledge and information that you require.

These courses are extremely helpful from an educational point of view.

On top of that, you need to take these courses before you take a standardized test that will make it possible for you to receive certification.

Therefore, you should try your best to get enrolled in these courses right off the bat.

Take the PFDE Test

When you take the PFDE test, you are taking a stab at getting the certification that you need from an officially recognized organization.

To pass, it is necessary to score at least an 80 on the test.

Once you do, then you will be added to the list of certified florists by the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD).

This is something that adds credibility to the work that you do, and it might make it easier to obtain work in the future.

Customers tend to appreciate working with someone who appears to have the credibility that comes with a certification genuinely.

Floral Design Classes and Programs

There is no state or federal requirement that a floral designer has a certain level of academic education to be eligible to take a job in the industry.

That said, taking the courses that are offered by some colleges, universities, and other organizations, is a great way for one to prepare themselves for the PFDE test and learn a lot more about the industry at the same time.

Many states, including Montana, do not have official programs offered by colleges and universities within the state.

Don’t despair though!

There are still a number of places in Montana where one can take floral design classes and programs.

A few of the places where one can capitalize on this type of program include:

Floral Design Academy

Certified floral designer (CFD) Leisa Cook teaches courses at the Floral Design Academy for those who want to learn the tricks of the trade.

There is a collaboration between the Floral Design Academy and Montana State University as well as Bozeman Community College.

When taking courses at the Floral Design Academy, one can take one-on-one classes that start at the beginning level and escalate to the advanced level later on.

The cost per class varies depending on the length of the class and how far up the chain one goes.

My Viola Floral Studio

There are many one-time classes in floral design that a pupil can take at My Viola Floral Studio.

This is an excellent way to gain some solid information about the process of floral design today. The classes cost between $50 to $60 per lesson.

There are different options for people interested in floral design in Montana.

Sharpening your skills before taking a PFDE test is something advisable to anyone and everyone that wants to make a better life for themselves.

Floral Designer Schools in Montana – Summary Table

Salary

The salary that one might expect in Montana varies based on the parts of the state that one serves in.

Some of the median salaries for floral designers in Montana are as follows: 

• Belgrade, MT – $45,946
• Billings, MT – $52,338
• Great Falls, MT – $47,915

These are just the averages, and there can be a significant amount of variation in what one might earn from their job as a floral designer in Montana.

Set your expectations at a realistic level and you should end up with a satisfying outcome for yourself based on the salaries that you are offered when searching for a job in the Montana market for floral designers.

Regional Salary in Montana

Floral Design by State