How to Become a Floral Designer in Maryland

There are many opportunities in this small state on the East Coast.

Despite being known for its blue crab population and fishing, Maryland’s nature has the potential beyond that.

So, if you’re an artistic soul, why not connect those two into something as beautiful as a bouquet?

Let’s learn how you can become a floral designer in Maryland!

How to Become a Floral Designer in Maryland

Step 1: Learn the basics

Whenever you start learning something new, you shouldn’t go and try the hardest thing first.

That ensures failure, and you’ll lose your motivation.

Try out the simple things, look up some videos, and go step by step.

You will be slow at first, and your work may not be flowing as you pictured it in your head, but practice makes perfect, so don’t give up!

Step 2: Gain Hands-On Experience

To refine your skills and gain practical experience, seek opportunities to work as an intern, apprentice, or part-time employee at florist shops, event planning companies, or garden centers in Maryland.

Learning from experienced professionals is invaluable.

Step 3: Build a portfolio

If you’re still sticking to your decision, you’ll need to build your business.

After you’ve gotten the basics down and you’ve started creating more complicated projects, take pictures and make sure to upload them on social media platforms.

You can also make a web page where you promote your services.

In due time, people will find your work, or rather, your work will find them.

This can bring in your first clients.

Working with people is hard, so you have to get used to talking to your clients about every detail and make suggestions and corrections so that their idea looks the best in real life.

One client grows into two, two into four.

You’ll have multiple clients in no time!

Step 4: Education

Although floral design does not require any formal education, if you’re planning to work in a floral shop, you’ll need at least a high school diploma or a GED.

There are also classes, courses, and workshops that can help you on your journey.

Most of them give out certificates as well!

Floral Design Schools in Maryland

1. Washington DC School of Flower Design

This school has also been active for a long time as well.

They offer many classes all over the USA as well.

They teach every level of students, and the fee varies from the beginner classes to the master classes, ranging from $195 to $1,850.

This depends on your level and how long the course itself lasts.

2. Washington Flower School

This flower school offers certificate courses for those who are considering a career as a florist, as well as those wanting a comprehensive overview of floral design.

The founder is an award-winning florist and is also the instructor of the course.

They have small class sizes, so you’ll receive individual attention as needed so you can further the skills that are necessary to become a successful floral designer.

They also offer workshops with seasonal themes and presentations with private groups.

Salary 

The average floral designer salary in Maryland is $56,808.

The minimum is around $46,117, and the maximum is around $68,655.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Baltimore	$56,640
Frederick	$59,181
Gaithersburg	$61,169
Bowie	$61,205
Rockville	$61,260
Hagerstown	$56,000
Annapolis	$58,382
College Park	$61,334
Salisbury	$58,574
Cumberland	$50,557

Regional Salary in Maryland

* 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

How much does a florist make in Maryland?

As of September 16, 2023, the average hourly pay for a Florist in Maryland is $16.82 an hour.

Do you need a license to sell flowers in Maryland?

Unless you are a grower or manufacturer, you may not offer for sale or sell any goods within Maryland.

You will first need a trader’s license from the Clerk of the Circuit Court and open a sales tax account.

Is it good to start a business in Maryland?

Most of the businesses in Maryland are small, meaning that they’re individually owned or owned by two partners.

Based on this, it can be good for you and profitable to open a shop yourself.

Floral Designer Info by State