Florist

As a florist, you would:

• handle enquiries and orders in-person, by phone and online
•  talk to customers about what they want and help them choose flowers
•  prepare and set out displays for weddings, celebrations and funerals
•  make sure flowers and plants reach display condition at the right time
•  design floral arrangements for events, shows and competitions
•  build good relationships with wholesalers and suppliers
•  keep up to date with new floristry techniques and trends

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• design skills and knowledge
• the ability to work well with your hands
• customer service skills
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• the ability to sell products and services
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You may need a driving licence if the job involves picking up stock and making deliveries.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

With experience, you could become a senior florist or start your own business.

You might also work as a freelance events floral designer, doing exhibition work, demonstrations and workshops.