Offered at Langley

Start date: September

Description

Students will complete two 15 - week terms which include work experience in the industry. The program provides in-depth hands-on training in all aspects of floral design and commercial floristry.

Upon mastering correct mechanics and basic shapes of design, the program moves into advanced and high style techniques. The floral designer must be up-to-date in science and technology related to the handling and prolonging the life of flowers and plants. Training is complete and comprehensive in all-important 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.

Students will develop skills using fresh materials as well as treated and dried floral products and gain knowledge in plant care and plant presentation. The program provides students with an understanding of the business aspects of the 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, and interactions with wire services, customers, and clients.

Career Opportunities

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:

The fundamental expertise, knowledge, skills, and attitudes to work in the commercial floristry industry.

Hands-on experience in the commercial floristry industry prior to graduation.

Student Profile

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 specific 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.

Admission Requirements

General Kwantlen admission requirements apply. Students should have completed Grade 11 English with a C or better or equivalent course. (See English or Applied Communication course descriptions for prerequisites.)

Content

Semester - fall

CMNS 1105 Introduction to Interactive Communication

FLOR 1111 Design Fundamentals I

FLOR 1112 Design Laboratory I

FLOR 1113 Flower Shop Operations I

FLOR 1114 Plant Identification and Product Knowledge I

FLOR 1115 Work Experience I

Semester - spring

BUSI 1204 Supervisory Skills for Horticulture Technicians and Florists

FLOR 1211 Design Fundamentals II

FLOR 1212 Design Laboratory II

FLOR 1213 Flower Shop Operations II

FLOR 1214 Plant Identification & Product Knowledge II

FLOR 1215 Work Experience II

Graduation

Upon successful completion of this program, students are awarded a Certificate in Commercial Floristry.

More Information

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.