How to Become a Floral Designer in Colorado

If you want to learn about the art of floral design, you’ve come to the right place.

We’re sure your artistic soul and creative mind will fit right into the process of creating art out of flowers.

But if you’re still unsure whether this could be a full-time job for you or just a hobby and a part-time hustle, let’s explore.

By the end of this article, you will know if diving into this fragrant industry is for you and your future.

How To Become a Floral Designer in Colorado

There are a few things to consider before you decide to go any further:

Step 1: Learn the basics

The internet is not just to waste time.

You can find the basics and start practicing at home before you ask for professional help.

This can help you find your first job in the business as well

Step 2: Contact experienced florists

Ask how business is going, show interest, and you will get information.

This can help you decide if it’s worth investing time and money into floristry in your area.

Step 3: Get a job in a flower shop

After you learn the basics, try out working in a shop

This way, you will see if you fit in and enjoy the job.

You will also be in contact with clients and will learn the ups and downs of working the job.

Step 4: Get a formal education

This is not a requirement for florists, especially if you have the talent for it.

However, most places require at least a high school diploma or GED.

Thankfully, there are plenty of classes, courses, schools, and universities in Colorado that can provide you with a proper education.

The field is diverse, so you can even specialize in one thing.

Step 5: Form a portfolio

After you get the hang of the basics, open up an Instagram profile or a website.

Share your work.

After all, it’s more likely that people see your work on the Internet rather than in real life in this day and age.

Floral Design Schools in Colorado

Mr. K’s Floral Design School in Denver

This is a school for beginners and those who want to further their education in the field.

The school provides classes in a course that lasts six weeks and costs $ 1,950.

It also provides 3-day workshops that cost $500.

Front Range Community College

This program is designed for students wanting to complete a three-semester Certificate in Floral Design.

Students may enter the workforce during the third semester of the program.

Students explore floral design concepts, techniques, and identification, usage, and culture of plants.

This program prepares the student for a career to work in or own a floral business.

In addition to learning about floral design and arrangements, students will learn about flower shop management and flower care for tropical and indoor plants.

The fees depend on if the classes are in person($260.40) or online($367.20).

Arapahoe Community College

They offer a 4-class course.

They focus on fresh flower arranging.

The instructor will submit documentation for certification once you’ve completed all four of the required courses.

Certificates are issued by the Arapahoe Community College.

Salary

The average Floral Designer salary in Colorado is $55,664.

The minimum is around $45,189, and the maximum is around $67,273.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Denver	$55,995
Colorado Springs	$54,838
Aurora	$55,958
Jefferson	$56,094
Fort Collins	$54,039
Arvada	$55,994
Pueblo	$51,703
Westminster	$55,995
Boulder	$56,496
Castle Rock	$55,026

Regional Salary in Colorado

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Floral Designers, OCC Code 27-1023, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a florist need to know?

You’ll need to understand how to create floral arrangements, how to extend the life of cut flowers, the basic florist supplies you’ll need to create arrangements, where to source flowers and hard goods, and so much more.

What challenges do florists face?

There are a few challenges that come with this line of work.

Pricing depends on demand, and both of those can be problematic and negotiable.

Flexibility becomes harder once you have more clients.

Me-time is not available as much.

Care for the stock is crucial.

You’re working with live matter, and it needs to stay that way.

There is always the problem of demand for seasonal flowers as well.

What is most important in flower arrangements?

This is why one of the flower-arranging basics is rhythm.

Just as with music, having rhythm in floral arrangements creates a pleasing overall piece.

Floral Designer Info by State