Floral design is a career that combines creativity and technical skill, making it a perfect fit for those who want to work in an industry that’s growing in popularity.
Washington is one of the most exciting places to become a floral designer because of the diversity of its population and economy.
If you want to pursue this career, here’s what you need to know.
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Steps to Become a Floral Designer in Washington
In Washington, you do not need any formal education to become a floral designer.
However, having a degree or certificate in floral design can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
If you want to become a floral designer in Washington, you can do so by following these steps:
Step 1: Research Floral Designer Programs or Classes
The first step to becoming a floral designer in Washington is to research the available programs and classes.
Floral design education can provide a foundation for building skills, and many programs offer certification that can increase job prospects.
Start by looking into schools, colleges, or universities that offer courses in floral design.
While there are no AIFD-approved educational programs in Washington, many reputable schools still offer programs or classes in floral design.
You can also search for workshops and classes at local floral shops or studios.
Step 2: Select a Program or Class
After researching the options, the next step is to choose the floral design course or program in Washington that best suits your needs and objectives.
To choose a course or program that will give you the knowledge and abilities needed to succeed as a floral designer, you must consider several factors.
First, consider the program or class format.
Some programs are full-time and can take up to a year to complete, while others are part-time or offered as workshops.
Choose a program that fits your schedule and time commitment.
Next, consider the location of the program or class.
Some programs may be offered online, while others may require in-person attendance.
If you choose an in-person program or class, ensure that it is located conveniently and is easy to commute to.
Step 3: Enroll in the Program or Class
Once you have selected a floral design program or class that fits your needs and goals, the next step is to enroll.
This involves completing the necessary paperwork and paying any fees associated with the program or class.
Before enrolling, ensure you have met any prerequisites or requirements for the program or class.
Some programs may require previous experience or knowledge in floral design or related fields.
Meanwhile, others may have specific application deadlines or portfolio requirements.
Step 4: Gain Experience
Once you have completed your floral design program or class, the next step is gaining practical field experience.
This involves working in a flower shop or floral design studio to build your skills, expand your knowledge, and create a portfolio of your work.
Consider applying for an internship or apprenticeship with a local flower shop or floral design studio.
This can provide hands-on experience working with customers, creating floral arrangements, and managing a business.
You can also learn from experienced floral designers and build your professional network.
Floral Designer Programs/Classes
While there are no AIFD-approved educational programs in Washington, several schools and studios still offer floral design programs and classes.
Here are a few schools that provide floral design education in Washington, along with their course offerings and details:
Fiori Floral Design – Seattle, WA
Fiori Floral Design offers practical classes and workshops for beginners and experienced floral designers.
The classes cover various topics, from basic techniques to advanced methods. Some of the classes offered at Fiori Floral Design include:
- Pavé Floral Design – This class teaches participants how to create a stunning floral arrangement using the pavé technique. Participants will learn how to build the foundation of the arrangement, add finishing touches, and make the flowers last longer.
- Texture Box – In this class, participants learn how to create a beautiful and unique floral design using a variety of textures and elements.
- Holiday Wreath Decorating – Participants learn how to create a festive and personalized holiday wreath.
Registration for classes at Fiori Floral Design ranges from $125 to $185.
Flirty Fleurs Flower School – Seattle, WA
Flirty Fleurs Flower School offers a range of floral design classes and workshops, including hands-on classes and business development workshops.
Some of the classes offered at Flirty Fleurs Flower School include:
- Bridal Bouquet Designing & Pricing – In this class, participants learn how to create beautiful, hand-tied bridal bouquets and price them appropriately.
- Dutch Inspired Floral Design – Participants will take inspiration from still-life paintings from the Dutch “Golden Age” and create a design with painterly qualities.
- Photograph Your Flowers – (A Floral Design and Photography Workshop) – This class teaches participants how to create stunning floral designs and photograph them in a way that highlights their beauty.
Flirty Fleurs Flower School classes range from $250 to $350 per person.
Spokane Community College – Spokane, WA
Spokane Community College offers a 10-week intensive lecture/lab certificate program for beginning floral design.
This program covers design principles and how to apply them to floral arrangements.
The program is ideal for budding florists, floral hobbyists, and enthusiasts.
All flowers and reading materials are included in the price of the class.
The cost for the certificate program is approximately $900.
Floral Designer Schools in Washington – Summary Table
School Name | Address |
---|---|
Fiori Floral Design | 1126 N 84th St, Seattle, WA 98103, United States |
Flirty Fleurs Flower School | Seattle, Washington |
Spokane Community College | 1810 N Greene St, Spokane, WA 99217, USA |
Salary
According to salary.com, the average salary for a floral designer in Washington is $38,588 per year.
However, this can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of employer.
Annual Salary Range:Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
---|---|
Spokane | $53,557 |
Seattle | $60,031 |
Tacoma | $58,509 |
Vancouver | $56,536 |
Bellevue | $60,031 |
Everett | $58,954 |
Federal Way | $58,509 |
Kent | $58,393 |
Yakima | $54,895 |
Bellingham | $55,918 |
Regional Salary in Washington
Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bremerton-Silverdale, WA | 60 | $37,200 | $17.88 | $44,840 | $32,740 |
Kennewick-Richland, WA | 40 | $37,900 | $18.22 | $42,390 | $35,280 |
Olympia-Tumwater, WA | 40 | $39,150 | $18.82 | $46,780 | $32,740 |
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | 470 | $42,120 | $20.25 | $47,940 | $36,720 |
Spokane-Spokane Valley, WA | 70 | $37,370 | $17.97 | $43,810 | $32,740 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skills are necessary to become a successful floral designer in Washington?
To become a successful floral designer in Washington, you must have a creative eye for design, a love for flowers, and a good sense of color and texture.
You should also have excellent customer service skills and communicate effectively with clients and colleagues.
What types of employers hire floral designers in Washington?
Floral designers in Washington can work for various employers, including florist shops, garden centers, event planners, and hotels.
Some floral designers also work as freelancers and provide floral design services for weddings, parties, and other events.
Is there a demand for floral designers in Washington?
Yes, there is a demand for floral designers in Washington.
Floral designers are needed for various events and occasions, including weddings, corporate events, and special occasions such as Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day.
Additionally, many people in Washington enjoy having fresh flowers in their homes and offices, which creates a demand for floral designers in the retail market.
What are some popular floral design trends in Washington?
Some popular floral design trends in Washington include using locally sourced and sustainable flowers, incorporating natural elements such as branches and foliage into arrangements, and creating asymmetrical and organic arrangements.
Many floral designers in Washington also use social media platforms like Instagram to showcase their work and connect with clients.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Floral Designer