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Since the time human civilization has taken birth, flowers have always held an important place in our society. Special events like weddings, festivals, birth occasions and even funerals witnessed use of flowers of different shapes and sizes. Flowers have also been extensively used for decorative purposes. No wonder, we are still fascinated with flowers and in recent times, flower business has grown by leaps and bounds. A florist is someone who works with flowers, plants and hand crafted flower arrangements. He sells these flowers to the general public. Some people say, this is an evergreen business because people will always require floral arrangements for a variety of reasons. These floral arrangements are needed to be handled by creative professionals. Florists are also defined as flower experts that assist general public in selecting the perfect floral arrangement.
A florist is a highly trained professional with perfect understanding of properties of different variety of flowers. Florist business is quite huge in western countries. According to one estimate, this business is worth £1.5 billion in UK and that by no means, is a small amount. That statistics show the potential of the business. Many international florists have established their bases in countries with extensive production of flowers and from there; they continue the business of import-export of flowers.
A florist arranges different types of fascinating flowers into a variety of displays. It is their role to choose the correct size, shape and style of the flowers. These flowers can be arranged into wreaths, centerpieces, bouquets and corsages etc. The assortment of flowers by the florists is done for different occasions. To further beautify the arrangements, florists also use balloons, bows, containers, baskets and ribbons etc.
Florists work in accordance with the needs and requirements of the clients. They take into consideration the importance of the occasion and preference of the customer and accordingly offer their services. If you want to become a florist in USA, you will need at least a high school diploma and floral design certifications through community colleges, vocational schools, or private floral schools. One gets to learn about different types of flowers, their arrangements, color and texture, pricing, cutting and taping methods and typing ribbons etc in these courses. Many florists continue their study by acquiring associate or bachelor degrees in floral design, horticulture, or floriculture etc. American Institute of Floral Designers certifies the florists once they clear the examination.
In UK, one needs to clear Level 2 and 3 in Floristry from a reputed college or university. To become a truly professional florist, one will require no less than five years to thoroughly master this interesting course. A florist can also go for City and Guilds National Certificate in the floristry industry. Level 5 is the highest professional qualification awarded to a florist.
In India, an aspiring florist will need to join a professional course in floriculture or horticulture. Most of the florists are self-employed. The demand for floral services is expected to grow significantly in coming times.
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