Getting ahead...

What is the best training for becoming a hirable floral designer? What types of ongoing training or certifications are necessary to be an effective floral designer?

What do non-traditional career paths look like?

The good designers I encounter usually gained their skills in a shop where they were nursed along and improved over time. Currently, I think shops are impatient, and don't want to commit to having someone develop over time, but they want people who acquired their skills from other teachers or programs.
Advanced designers who love floral work will usually take time, if asked, to help someone improve. The insecure designers who are afraid someone else will get their job try to intimidate newcomers to the industry.

Sue in Ellicott City, Maryland said: The good designers I encounter usually gained their skills in a shop where they were nursed along and improved over time. Currently, I think shops are impatient, and don't want to commit to having someone develop over time, but they want people who acquired their skills from other teachers or programs.
Advanced designers who love floral work will usually take time, if asked, to help someone improve. The insecure designers who are afraid someone else will get their job try to intimidate newcomers to the industry.

I completed two floral design courses, within the last three years, and have not gotten a job in this field. Most of the shop I go to are not hiring, if they do
it is only for the holiday. Any advice? Thank You, CL

Cassandra in Atlanta, Georgia said: I completed two floral design courses, within the last three years, and have not gotten a job in this field. Most of the shop I go to are not hiring, if they do
it is only for the holiday. Any advice? Thank You, CL

Start working there over the holidays...they can see how great you are, then you have an "in"...you can also offer to work some days/half days for no pay. They can always use an extra hand and you'll learn a lot and then when a slot comes open, you will hopefully be hired.