Floristry

A florist may work in one of several sectors, in a shop, within an event company or for a variety of retail organisations. A successful florist understands the principles of design, aesthetics, composition and colour to capture the mood of the customer. Florists must also be able to source, purchase and store floral materials which by their nature are fragile and short-lived. A florist is aware of which flowers are available in which seasons of the year and which flowers work well in combination with each other and offer advice and translate a client’s vision into displays that are beautiful and captivating.

Competitors will be expected to be able to interpret a brief and design floral displays interpreting a theme, using dominance, contrasts and combinations of colour effectively to create harmony in design. They will also be able to apply the principles and elements of floral design and ensure dominance of botanical materials feature in the designs.

Competitors will need to understand how to condition these floral materials and plants, taking into account irritant or poisonous materials, the variety of stem types and show appropriate cutting, watering and feeding methods. They will need to work in a way that minimises damage to the environment and maintain health and safety codes of practice.