This program provides students with in-depth, hands-on training in all aspects of floral design and commercial floristry. Training is complete and comprehensive in floristry skills such as corsage making and sympathy work. Styling of bridal bouquets and church and reception decorations for weddings are thoroughly covered, including holiday decor. Study of colour harmonies and an overview of interior design enable students to construct floral appointments for commercial and residential interiors. Upon mastering correct mechanics and basic shapes of design, the program moves into advanced and high style techniques.

Students are provided with an understanding of the business aspects of the floral industry. Receiving, storing, stocking, ticketing, packing and shipping of floral products is included. Profitable pricing and marketing of floral products is covered, along with information regarding start-up of a business, supervisory skills, day-to-day operations, internet sales and interactions with wire services, customers and clients. The floral designer must be up-to-date in science and technology related to the care, handling and prolonging the life of flowers and plants. Common, botanical names, availability, and colour of cut flowers, greens, flowering and green plants are studied. Students will complete two 15-week terms that include practical work experience in the industry.

Students in this program represent a mixture of recent high school graduates and mature students with a variety of work experiences.

Students should have a strong desire for hands-on work. Learning by doing is an important part of the program and many hours will be spent in the Floristry lab where standing, cutting, cleaning, and designing under pressure are considered normal working conditions. Students are required to work with certain sprays, preservatives and cleaning products. Individuals with allergies to dust, pollen or plant products or specifc chemicals should be aware of the potential impact on their health. Physical fitness and a healthy back are generally required for a successful career in this horticulture discipline. Students who may encounter difficulties with the physical, intellectual, or emotional demands of this program should contact the coordinator of the Floristry program to discuss the required skills and competencies.

Employment opportunities exist within conventional flower shops, wholesalers, custom design studios, and outlets as wedding consultants, special event decorators and management trainees or shop owners. This Certificate Program is designed to train florists who have:

Students must meet either the regular student admission category or the mature student admission category (note exception to the English Proficiency requirement that follows). Students must complete Grade 11 English with a C or better or equivalent course.

Upon successful completion of this program, including the Co-op work component, students are awarded a Certifcate in Commercial Floristry.

The Flowers Canada Accreditation Exam in Basic Florist Skills and Floral Design I will be taken by all students of the Commercial Floristry Program prior to graduation.