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Becoming a florist requires a handful of skills, including creativity, patience, and a hard-working ethic.
In Oregon, florists work year-round to accommodate special events and holidays.
If you’re interested in learning floral design, there are certain steps you need to take before becoming a florist in Oregon.
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Steps to Become a Floral Designer in Oregon
Just like any other job, you will need to meet certain criteria if you want to be a florist in Oregon.
This includes meeting educational requirements and gaining experience in the field.
Below, we’ll walk you through everything you’d need to know to become a qualified floral designer in Oregon.
Step 1: Obtaining a High School Diploma or GED
While getting your high school diploma working as a florist is unnecessary, it would still be advantageous.
If you want to pursue a deeper understanding of techniques and take classes, the schools will require you to have a high school degree or equivalent.
Additionally, most employers will also want to see a diploma or GED.
Step 2: Gain Knowledge & Experience
Before you can become a florist on your own, you will need to gain experience in the trade.
As a floral designer, you need to master the basics and be able to master the principles and techniques.
This can either be from self-study, taking classes, or interning.
Step 3: Enroll in Schooling
Enrolling in schooling can help you hone your crafts and gain a certificate.
Multiple floral design programs are available in Oregon, including trade schools, online courses, etc.
These programs can be used to work towards a certificate, but they are not required.
Step 4: Complete an Apprenticeship
Next, you’ll want to complete an apprenticeship with someone skilled in the field.
You can do this by volunteering or taking a paid internship.
Many floral shops will offer apprenticeships for those who want to gain experience in the trade.
Taking advantage of these opportunities gives you experience and lets you see how the business is operated.
Step 5: Obtain A License
The last step of becoming a florist is to get licensed.
While it’s not required in Oregon to work as a florist, it’s still recommended because it will allow you to operate a floral business.
Obtaining a license will require you to pass an exam and learn three core basics, including floral design, business management, and customer service.
Floral Designer Programs/Classes
Oregon has several floral design programs in the state, which can be convenient if you live in the area.
These programs are designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills you will need to become a florist.
Here are the schools and programs:
Floral Design Institute
Located in Portland, FDI offers hands-on training and online courses.
Register for their certification online, and they will provide you with a course calendar.
The certificate costs approximately $2,250, which is reasonable for what they cover.
Each class is approximately 120 hours but can be more or less depending on the class.
Color Theory Design Co
You can take floral design classes online here.
They offer a wide array of classes, from beginner to seasoned florist classes.
You will also gain access to forums, monthly zoom meetups, and new classes.
Portland Community College
Preston Bailey’s Fundamentals of Floral Design is offered at Portland Community College and takes 6 months.
They also offer intermediate courses for seasoned florists if they are looking to improve their crafts.
Floral Designer Schools in Oregon – Summary Table
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Floral Design Institute | Between Marshall and Northrup, 1138 NW 17th Ave, Portland, OR 97209, USA |
| Color Theory Design Co | 2642 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland |
| Portland Community College | 705 N. Killingsworth St. Portland, OR 97217 |
Salary
A florist in Oregon will make a salary depending on a few factors.
Their experience, location, and business size are just a few factors that can impact their salary.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a florist with a median salary in Oregon makes $33,920.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Portland | $56,680 |
| Eugene | $53,546 |
| Salem | $53,735 |
| Gresham | $56,608 |
| Beaverton | $56,680 |
| Hillsboro | $56,499 |
| Medford | $53,057 |
| Springfield | $53,427 |
| Bend | $52,943 |
| Corvallis | $53,107 |
Regional Salary in Oregon
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bend-Redmond, OR | 30 | $37,370 | $17.97 | $45,850 | $30,950 |
| Eugene, OR | 70 | $35,890 | $17.25 | $45,700 | $30,040 |
| Medford, OR | 30 | $34,510 | $16.59 | $43,530 | $30,160 |
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | 350 | $39,140 | $18.82 | $47,840 | $34,260 |
| Salem, OR | 40 | $37,650 | $18.1 | $45,930 | $30,920 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a degree to become a floral designer in Oregon?
No, a degree or certificate is not required if you want to become a florist in Oregon.
You can get a certificate, take classes, or do an internship to help you gain experience and knowledge in the field.
However, it’s not necessary but is recommended because you learn about business and trade.
How long does it take to become a floral designer in Oregon?
There is no minimum requirement to become a floral designer in Oregon.
However, to gain experience, you can intern for a year or join a certificate program.
Lengths will vary, but they can last anywhere from a semester to a year.
Do I need a florist license to operate a floral business in Oregon?
You can operate as a florist without a license, but you can’t own a business without the required permits.
In Oregon, you must obtain a license, pass an exam, and get the required permits through your city.
Permits allow you to operate your business and shop.
What are the average salary and job outlook for florists in Oregon?
The average salary in Oregon is $33,500, depending on experience and expertise.
Aside from that, the job outlook for floral designers is expected to remain the same in Oregon.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Floral Designer
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