Job Description

A Florist is a professional who arranges and sells flowers and ornamental plants. They combine creativity and knowledge of plants to design floral displays for various occasions.

Typical Preparation

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: Moderate-term

Outlook

Projected Growth: -18.0% (negative growth)

Annual job openings: 5 100

Direct AI exposure: 10% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 43% of tasks

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Artisans and Craftspersons. According to the wage tables, average income is $42K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$32K
per year
$35K
per year
$42K
per year
$50K
per year
$58K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $23K below the national average.

What does a Florist do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Arranges fresh, dried, or artificial flowers and foliage.
  • Advises customers on floral design and plant care.
  • Manages flower inventory, including ordering and care.
  • Sets up displays for weddings, funerals, and other events.
  • Maintains cleanliness and appearance of the shop or work area.

Work environment

Florists typically work in flower shops, greenhouses, or floral departments within larger stores. The environment can be fragrant and aesthetically pleasing but may also require long hours of standing and exposure to allergens like pollen. Work hours can vary, with increased demand during holidays and special events.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Wedding Floristry: Specializing in creating floral arrangements specifically for weddings.
  • Sympathy Floristry: Focusing on arrangements for funerals and memorials.
  • Event Floristry: Designing and setting up floral displays for various events.
  • Retail Floristry: Working in a shop setting and providing a wide range of floral services.
  • Corporate Floristry: Creating arrangements for businesses and regular clients.

Description

Florists blend artistic ability with knowledge of flowers and plants to create appealing arrangements. They must understand elements of color, design, and texture, and be knowledgeable about different types of flowers and their care. Florists often consult with clients to understand their needs and preferences, making customer service skills essential.

This occupation requires creativity, as well as practical skills like cutting, trimming, and arranging flowers. Florists must also manage business-related tasks such as ordering supplies, pricing arrangements, and managing inventory. During busy periods, such as holidays or wedding seasons, florists often work long hours to meet customer demand.

A career as a florist can be highly rewarding for those with a passion for flowers and design. It offers an opportunity to brighten people's lives with beautiful creations and to work in a visually pleasing and fragrant environment.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Florist if you are...

Pros:

  • Creative and fulfilling work.
  • Opportunities for self-employment and entrepreneurial ventures.
  • Interaction with a variety of customers and occasions.

Cons:

  • Potentially long hours, especially around holidays and event seasons.
  • Physical work that may include standing for long periods and handling heavy containers.
  • Allergen exposure and working in various temperature conditions.

How to become a Florist

Typical education

Formal education is not strictly required; most skills are learned on the job. However, some florists pursue formal training through vocational courses or a college diploma in floral design or horticulture.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Art and design classes to develop a sense of aesthetics.
  • Business studies to understand the basics of running a small business.
  • Biology or horticulture to learn about plant care.
  • Home economics for skills in crafting and working with different materials.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Join gardening clubs or participate in horticulture projects.
  • Volunteer at local flower shops or botanical gardens.
  • Develop a personal portfolio of designs and arrangements.

Preparation after high school

  • Enroll in a floral design program or vocational training.
  • Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in flower shops.
  • Consider professional floristry certification, such as from the Canadian Professional Florists Association (CPFA)
  • Build a network with suppliers and learn about various types of flowers and plants.
  • Stay updated with trends in floral design and event planning.

More resources

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