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Feature Designer, Featured Floral School, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

Matthew Landers Academy – Matthew Landers

From the day Joseph Massie introduced Matthew Lander and Floral.today to each other, we have been enjoying every second! Matthew has a wonderful passion for design along with a fun infectious personality. The Matthew Landers Academy may be young, being only established in July 2012, but it is one of the most on-trend and industry advancing academy’s offering courses to the industry today. Matthew Landers Academy is the largest Private Training Provider in Western Australia and has courses available for Hobbyist, Beginners, along with Industry and Advanced training courses.

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

YOU CAN FIND ALL THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR MAtthew Landers and Matthew LAnders Academy AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE
Where have you found the greatest impact when teaching floral design, demonstrations or workshops?

The greatest impact for myself would be teaching techniques. There have been many occasions where intermediate or senior floral designers have come to us to further their skills and in fact have been poorly taught or self-taught. I believe our greatest impact is teaching thoroughly the correct use of the sundries and supplies that are designed and engineered for botanical product and our industry. I also feel we have impacted many Beginners who thought it would be ‘easy’. Teaching them that there is indeed training, skills and education that is required to become a Floral Designer.

What struggles have you found with teaching floral education to the public compared to professional designers?

To be honest, the public are generally better students. They’re keen to learn and listen to what you have to say. Floral Designers tend to have already made up their own mind and ‘know better’. The only real struggle for teaching the general public is the diversity in the classes. Our classes are open to anyone above the age of 16. You can imagine what it can be like to have 16 students all of different ages, cultural backgrounds and life experiences. Sometimes the banter between students needs to be stopped and the class is bought back to attention and the task at hand.

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

In your personal opinion what are some of the shortcomings in floral education that the industry should strive towards working on?

In Australia, this would definitely be the training package that is taught in Registered Training Organizations (RTO). If you wish to become a RTO, you must deliver the training package exactly as it is stated. 40-50% of what is in the Certificate III Training package is obsolete and would never be used in a 2015 commercial florist. I think the Training Package and the manner in which is is marked upon to deem someone ‘competent’ needs to be addressed in the future. We have chosen thus far, not to become an RTO because of not agreeing on what is to be taught. Our Industry Course has been developed to cover the crucial learning needed to enter the Industry, whether it be straight from school or later in life. There is also a strong oversight by commercial Florists when hiring, to look only at candidates who posses a Certificate. Some of the worlds best florists are not ‘qualified’, however their designs, speed and presentation far surpass the industry Standard. I know that more progressive business people, do indeed hire on the skills and standards of the candidate, not the piece of paper in a file. Again, with the current training package, even if the student is terrible, and RTO must pass them if they have ‘tried to complete the task’.

What do you do to keep your self-educated and on trend?

I do my best to attend all major worldwide competitions, conferences and summits each year. I also actively look weekly to what is trending on Social Media and in Fashion Blogs and Magazines to try and pre-empt the classes that will be required for my school on a particular technique. An example is, when Kokedama made a comeback in Harpers Bazaar in 2013 (then trickling to Blogs, Social Media etc.), I immediately scheduled a Kokedama workshop within the coming months. I also work closely with other educators, particular Joseph Massie of the UK School of Floristry. We often ‘compare notes’ as to the content of what we’re teaching and how it is being taught.

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

How would you say floral education differs in Australia than floral education in the rest of the world?

The Floristry Industry is unregulated in Australia. Therefore you do not ‘need’ to have a Certificate III, IV or Diploma to obtain work or run your own business. Therefore anyone can offer training, open a school or conduct workshops. This is good and bad. I feel it would be great if the was somewhat of a governing body, but not exactly ‘regulated’. For example, someone who completes a class at my school, it would be nice if they were able to sit exams and get ‘rated’ by a governing body for their skills (similar to AIFD). Australia follows multiple trends. European, Asian and American. This does make it a little more diverse with setting training plans. In the past, Australia has been heavily influenced by very traditional English Floral Design. Hence why this has become somewhat obsolete, as the younger generation (or what we call ‘our current customer’) wants products that are a lot more stylish and modern. The only thing that is really the same worldwide are the Principles and Elements of Design.

What floral topics do you feel in your personal opinion are either over taught or need to be focused on more?

I personally think the number one topic should be ‘How to maintain our Industry’. This is a luxury product in a climate with a future that is unknown. It’s all very well to teach techniques, designs and how to cost and market them effectively. But do those designs have a place in the future of our industry or are we focusing too much on a trend that will only last months? There is also a decline in the knowledge of Botanical names and Variety knowledge. There are too many people referring to things in our industry with little or no knowledge of their history or how they grow and should be cared for post-harvest. We should be referring to something like a Red Rose as a ‘Grand Prix Rose’ or an ‘Adrenaline Rose’ not just a ‘Long stemmed Red’. It is like the difference of seeing a Doctor. You pay more to see a specialist than you do to see a General Practitioner. Each Floral Designer should be striving to have the product knowledge of a ‘Specialist’ and charge accordingly.

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

How would you like to see floral education evolve over the next 5 years?

I would love to see a little more of a commitment in education moving forward. There is a difference in simply ‘delivering a course’ and ‘teaching a student’. To be honest, I think the dead wood that needs to be weeded out of the teachers in Australian Floristry Schools, will reach natural attrition within these years. Younger, more progressive teachers like myself are now seen to be far more successful than older generation, with perhaps more traditional teaching methods.

What do you hope your students take away from your training?

A little piece of my passion. I am incredibly dedicated and passionate about this Industry and also our craft. I try to go above and beyond with my students and always give them my 100%. I hope my students not only take away the skills we’re teaching them, but also some dedication and commitment to advance their skills and be more successful personally or professionally.

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

Photo Property of Matthew Landers

What do you think are some of the top floral educational advancements that have helped progress the industry?

I think the shining star in this would be Social Media. Instagram, Facebook, Blogs, Pinterest etc. This has enabled a product to go viral and become a worldwide phenomenon in the touch of a finger. If Beyoncé is wearing a Flower Crown, suddenly, everyone wants to wear a flower crown. Floral Designers are quick to criticise people working from home and also offering DIY on Blogs and Video Tutorial. I think the point here is missed. They’re promoting Flowers. People are engaged and loving flowers and Floral Design. Rather than being insecure, they should be proactive in their business and realizing there is perhaps another market they could tap into. Social Media has also allowed us to tap into what is trending in other parts of the world without having to wait day, weeks or months for a new book or magazine. You can monitor the success of what you’re producing and also the engagement with the audience. People aren’t shy to tell you what they think. There are many blogs that have wonderful, educational tips for florists and general public that will enable them to either make more informed buying choices, use different or learn new techniques and also forecast upcoming trends.

Of the floral educators around the world, who are your top 3 and why?

In no particular order.

Gregor Lersch – Germany : Gregor is like the Yves Saint Laurent of the Floristry Industry. He broke the rules, then re-wrote them. He did what everyone else was too scared to do. He educates with a level of passion and dedication that oozes out of every fibre of his being. A legend in our industry and a true inspiration.

Gregory Milner – Australia : Greg’s mother Marjorie Milner was a pioneer of education in Australia, starting Marjorie Milner College in Melbourne. Greg has taken this college from strength to strength. Greg is responsible for Australia having a lot of the education it does today. Along with a range of videos and books his passion is visible in each and every interaction.

Joseph Massie – England : Joe, similarly to myself started young and has achieved a lot. Joe is also what I consider the ‘new generation’. After his recent acquisition of the UK School of Floristry, I invited him to come to Australia to be a guest demonstrator and workshop tutor for my school in 4 Australian cities. Joe excelled on delivering ‘current’ and relevant information about the industry and its trends.

ML_ACADEMY_RGB

Website: www.matthewlanders.com
Email: sales@matthewlanders.com
Phone: +61 8 9355 5369

Social Media

Facebook
Instagram

As a fresh breath into Floral Education, Floral.today looks forward to the day that we get to personally work with Matthew Landers and his forward thinking Matthew Landers Academy. Thank you to Matthew for taking the time to share with us an Australian perspective on the state of Floral Education and we look forward to the inspiring floral future he is working towards. Check out all the links above to stay in the know with all things Matthew Landers .

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Feature Designer, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI – From Educator to Advisor

Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI is one of those unique floral educators that put not only time into educating the future of our industry but also her time into building her successful floral business Meadowscent! Throughout all of it though Theresa has faced the saddening decline of collegiate floral design programs going from teaching floral design at the State University of N.Y. At Cobleskill and at the NY botanical gardens to becoming the SAIFD Advisor to the rural Upstate, New York school. As a SAIFD Advisor, Theresa still inspires future floral designers and growth in the industry.

Photo Protperty of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

Photo Property of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

YOU CAN FIND ALL THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE
What advantages do feel SAIFD chapters provide that normal college programs do not?

Having the support of AIFD provides us with many educational and industry opportunities. We host guest AIFD designers to work with students for our Artist in Residence program, our students attend National symposium to compete with other SAIFD colleges and take advantage of our educational shows. This symposium also provides the students the opportunity to work side by side with world renown designers on designs for their programs.

What struggles have you found university and college programs have faced in recent years?

The number of students interested in floral design has declined, therefore making it difficult for the colleges to continue their programs.

Photo Protperty of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

Photo Property of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

In your personal opinion what are some of the shortcomings in floral education that the industry should strive towards working on?

I think the industry needs to support floral education programs as best they can. There is a lapse in age of people taking on floral design careers. We need to invest in our college students as well as current florists furthering their careers, in order to keep our industry alive. Education is the best way to help floral design flourish.

What has been one of the most interesting floral topics you have taught so far in your career?

Because working with flowers is appealing to many, we often see people opening flower shops that have no real design skills or business skills for the floral industry. I find it most interesting to teach industry business skills to this group. If the desire to design is there, you won’t stay in business very long if you can’t turn a profit. Teaching these skills are a vital part of keeping our retail florists in business and creating opportunities for floral entrepreneurs.

Photo Protperty of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

Photo Property of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

As a past instructor of State University of N.Y. At Cobleskill, what did you find to be the most challenging part of running a floral program?

It’s difficult to run a program with a very tight budget. In order to keep floral design relevant, you need to show the students new products in our market. These can be costly and often impossible for most programs to afford. This would be an area that the industry could lend support to. Manufacturers, growers and wholesalers would benefit to have their products being used by students who are the future of our industry.

Do you have a philosophy when it comes to floral education?

Exposure to the floral industry globally. Whenever I have the chance I let the student see how large our industry is and that it goes beyond a mom and pop shop in your hometown. Exploring all facets of the floral industry worldwide creates an excitement and possibilities for them to find careers.

Photo Protperty of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

Photo Property of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

With our ever-changing industry, where have you seen the floral industry change the most over the past 5-10 years?

Sadly, I think consumers have lost a lot of faith in Florists. Order gatherers and wire services have promised the consumers more than the retail florist can deliver and as a result our consumers have been dissatisfied. Retail florists need to do everything they can to provide quality customer service with excellent product in order to regain the consumers trust. It may not be an easy task, but it needs to be done on every order and every customer that chooses to do business with you.

What advice do you have for designers looking to become floral educators or presenters?

Continually educating yourself should be your priority. Advance your career to AIFD, and PFCI. Become a member of the Society of American Florists. Take classes from other designers. Travel to other countries to experience cultural differences with flowers.. The educational opportunities are endless. Experience them and share them with others!

Photo Protperty of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

Photo Protperty of Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

What do you think are some of the top floral educational advancements that have helped progress the industry?

I truly believe in The American Institute of Floral Designers. They are dedicated to the advancement of floral education to the individual, the student, the public and the industry. I believe the standards they uphold continually cause designers to strive to be some of the best designers in the world.

With your extensive floral education knowledge, along with your AIFD and PFCI accreditations, where would you like to take your experience and skill to further educate the industry?

Flowers and nature should be a part of everyone’s lives. We, as florist’s know it. Dozens of studies have documented the benefits of flowers in our lives. European and Asian cultures understand it. I want the United States to grasp it. I hope that by educating with my enthusiasm for the industry, it will trickle down from growers to retail florists and students to the consumer and we will become a nation of flower buyers!


Theresa Colucci AIFD, PFCI

Website: meadowscent.com
Email: theresa@meadowscent.com
Phone: 845-255-3866
845-255-3910

Facebook

 

Thank you to Theresa for sharing with us her passion and thoughts on Floral Education. Best of luck to her and her SAIFD Chapter with it’s endeavors this year and in the future.

As we finish up Floral Education Month, make sure to share with Floral.today what you enjoyed the most!

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Feature Designer, Featured Floral School, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

College of Southern Nevada – Chieko Fukushima AIFD, CFD

Chieko Fukushima AIFD, CFD is the SAIFD Advisor and educator at the College of Southern Nevada and is striving to grow industry awareness for not just the public but also future floral design generations. Through contests, industry involvement and awareness, Chieko gives the full experience to her students for them to confidently go into floral industry careers.

Dustin 2

YOU CAN FIND ALL THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE college of Southern nevada AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE
As a SAIFD Advisor, do think schools show enough support to SAIFD Chapters?

Our school has been gracious in financial support for travel expenses for those that participate in Student Design Competitions. I have took over CSN Floral Design Technology program in 2009 and advised the team of SAIFD that won the “Best of the Best” highest score of the school at Student Design Competition. Ever since, our SAIFD has won many awards and two of member were inducted into AIFD at Chicago and two were awarded CFD in 2014. I am showing actual proof to school administration that through demonstrating the methods and cultivate student skills, creating a mind set for their achievement.

Dustin 1

What advice do you have for professional floral designers looking to be advisors or floral educators?

As professional floral designers you need to advance consistently and reach out for new trends and upgrade your skills. Do not contend who you are, share your new knowledge with your students.

Dustin 6

With university level floral education, where do see most students focusing their future career goals?

They should not just be a professional floral designer employed by someone, students should focus to have and own established business ventures as florists, event companies, wedding consultant/planner and instructors.

What has been one of the most interesting floral topics you have taught so far in your career?

Every two years I  teach the subject “Creativity & Competition”, which I am very interested to bring out individual hidden talents from each students. I have deep satisfaction when I find one in students which gives them confident and strive toward their goals. I enjoy bringing out each students quality and develop their individual skills.

IMG_3983
Do you have a philosophy when it comes to floral education

My advice to all my student is to have “CREATIVE MINDS AND CHALLENGING SPIRITS”

IMG_3984

What major differences have you found when educating professional designers verses student designers?

I found so called professional designers show their arrogance and highly over confident that they know everything but they don’t. Some professional designer doesn’t share their knowledge. Their mentalities are so selfish, since they paid large sum of fee to learn, why should they have to share information to non-paying people. One of my old colleague was afraid to share anything due to lack of self-security. Student designer are so curious and wants to know everything to obtain new information and techniques.

With our ever-changing industry, how have you seen floral education change in the past 5-10 years?

I have owned a full service florist in California for 8 years and have attend all classes offered by FTD and Teleflora educational programs. I have noticed some trade shows just have a few professional’s showing off designs not sellable for florist. Some education requires you to scale down to encourage florist to make a profit. It’s nice to educate three different designs for upgrading for sale price.

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In your personal opinion what are some of the shortcomings in floral education that the industry should strive towards working on?

Local wholesalers and schools should get together to have more education for the general public and young students to introduce our Floral Industry. One of our Wholesaler sponsors the event “Art in Bloom”, allowing professionals, and students to design their inspiration from Paintings. Then the public judges for the People Choice Award.

When advising SAIFD students, what do you personally think are the most important ways to keep their interest for future careers in the industry?

I feel it’s the best idea to focus on the Floral Industry. Also, I believe that if the students are interested in this floral industry, I would encourage other subjects like business (Accounting), English (Public Speaking), Math ( business math), Information System ( Office, Excel, Power point), and photography.

Dustin 4

What do you think are some of the top floral educational advancements that have helped progress the industry?

PFDE is the best floral education advancement and all the AIFD National Symposium programs.

Each district chapter of FTD and Teleflora should have more educational programs.

IMG_3876


College of Southern Nevada

Website: www.csn.edu
Email: chieko.fukushima@csn.edu
Phone: (702) 651-4207

Course Detail

 

Good luck to Chieko and her students this year in their SAIFD contests and thank you again for sharing with us. Make sure to go support the Student American Institute of Floral Design Chapters in your area, as you will be supporting the future of our industry. You can find all the information about SAIFD HERE!

Till Next Time,

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Feature Designer, Featured Floral School, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

Joseph Delarge -Seneca College / eco|stems

 One of the great hidden gems of Canadian floral education is hidden right in the heart of Toronto and that gems name is Joseph Delarge! Joseph is the owner of Toronto’s only environmentally and socially sustainable flower shop where you can find only local, organic and/or fair-trade flowers and plants. Along with his successful business Joseph is the Botany Instructor in the Floral Design Program at Seneca College also located in Toronto, Canada. 

Me making a handmade Red Dogwood wreath.

Me making a handmade Red Dogwood wreath.

YOU CAN FIND ALL THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE FLORAL DESIGN INSTITUTE AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE
What major differences do you find when presenting floral education at a university level verses doing workshops at your shop, eco|stems?

In the workshops we hold at the shop our focus is more on the practical and allowing people to make something pretty to take home with them. We cover a bit of the theory specific to the design they’ve made, whether it’s a floral or plant design. The people coming to our in-store workshops are typically doing it for the experience often with a friend or family member.

I would encourage anyone looking to make a career of it to enroll at Seneca or similar. At the college it’s a bit more involved for the student. For 8 months the students have a full-time college schedule of design theory and practical, botany, art, sketching, customer service classes etc. that have different theory/practical ratios. My Botany class is 3 hours every week for 4 months. Each class is about 2/3 theory and 1/3 practical but the amount of theory covered ensures they are spending many hours outside of class studying. They’re there to learn for their future career. The education is intense and thorough!

Joseph Teaching a Workshop at The Toronto Botanical Garden

Joseph Teaching a Workshop at The Toronto Botanical Garden

What advice do you have for designers looking to become a floral educator or presenter?

I’d say it takes a diverse knowledge, experience and a certain level of expertise. I have a varied horticultural background. I grew up on a farm always in the forests, fields, veggie gardens and flower beds. Went to school for greenhouse horticulture at Niagara College and floral design at Seneca. I’ve worked in greenhouses, landscaping and in many flower shops. I’m always learning! To be a teacher you have to always be building on your knowledge and skills. And I’m always taking every opportunity I can get to be up in-front of a crowd talking about flowers and plants.

Rose-hip armature vase arrangement. No foam.

Rose-hip armature vase arrangement. No foam.

With our ever-changing industry, where do you hope see floral education heading in the next 5-10 years?

I see a glut of floral education programs that don’t even come close to preparing the students for a life in this industry. A lot of people in this industry don’t have a complete grasp of the basic skills it takes to be a well rounded florist. I hope to see a better and more intense focus on the basics. If we train people to be experts in this industry we’ll all be better off.

Photo Property of eco | stems

Photo Property of eco | stems

What do you think are some of the top floral educational advancements that have helped progress the industry?

The internet and all it brings has proven to be a great tool to connect people and learn from each other. It would have to be the top educational advancement.

Photo Property of eco | stems

Photo Property of eco | stems

As a floral designer and educator that values using local, organic and fair trade products, do ever find the industry lacking in the area of more natural and clean practices and the educational opportunities presenting them?

Sustainability within the floral industry is lacking to say the least! Although I think things are definitely improving, it’s so wasteful and harmful to people and the planet in a lot of areas. I started eco|stems to show that there are ways to do things differently. And I’ve proven that it can be done! I am always finding ways to inject a little sustainability into my lessons. It’s a challenge. Saying that, it’s our responsibility as an industry to do our part to lesson or even eliminate any negative impact we may have on the planet and the people we live with on it! You have to be the change you want to see in the world.

Veriflora and Rainforest Alliance fair-trade certifications.

Veriflora and Rainforest Alliance fair-trade certifications.

What has been one of the most interesting floral topics you have taught so far in your career?

Kokedama – a very cool form of Japanese Bonsai has been the most interesting thing to teach so far. Google it. I think you’ll see it become a big thing in plant design in the near future!

In your personal opinion what are some of the shortcomings in floral education that the industry should strive towards working on?

Nomenclature, wiring and taping, hand-tied bouquets, armatures, potted plants are a few specific areas of floristry that I feel a lot of florists have trouble with. There’s definitely room for improvement.

A nest like armature bouquet made for Canadian Florist Magazine in 2014

A nest like armature bouquet made for Canadian Florist Magazine in 2014

Do you have a philosophy when it comes to floral education?

No philosophy I live by. I just try to be a source of information and inspiration for my students. I hope that inspires them to do great things with flowers and plants!

eco | stem Everyday Design

eco | stem Everyday Design

If you could teach or educate the floral industry on any topic, what would your dream topic be?

My dream topic would have to be armatures! How to build them and how to work them into your designs. I have taught this subject a couple of times, it was fantastic! I’ve never been able to explore it in the detail that I would like to with a class.

Floral Art installation From Canada Blooms 2014 To The Theme "Wild".

Floral Art installation From Canada Blooms 2014 To The Theme “Wild”.

How do you think floral educators could advance the presence of the floral industry to the public through education?

Floral educators need to live and breathe flowers and plants! If you have a passion for it people will see and it will be infectious! It can be as simple as having workshops. It allows the public to see all of the work and skill that goes into the beauty we create. That works wonders! Make sure the information you are providing is accurate and up to date! Providing incomplete or inaccurate information is one of the easiest ways to turn people off of the floral industry. You need to always be learning especially if you are going to teach.


eco|stems

Website: ecostems.ca
Email: info@ecostems.ca
Phone: 416-214-6479
Workshops

Social Media
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Seneca College

Website: www.senecacollege.ca
Floral Program Website: www.senecacollege.ca/fulltime/FDN
Email: admissions@senecacollege.ca
Phone: (416) 491-5050 Ext. 22840

 

Thank you to Joseph for bringing a clean industry perspective to floral education, Floral.today looks forward to the next time we get to enjoy Joseph’s designs and industry perspectives. Make sure to follow Joseph with the links above for some truly beautiful design and to see if the 2 Semester Floral Program is for you.

Enjoy the Rest of Your Floral Education Month,

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Feature Designer, Featured Floral School, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

Kathy Freeman-Hastings FDI – Floral Design Institute

With 12 years of floral education under her belt at the Floral Design Institute and a degree in fine arts, you can bet the Kathy Freeman-Hastings FDI is going to treat you to an amazing design course. You can expect a fun class atmosphere and a high level of expertise when taking her courses. Check out all the courses Kathy will be instructing this year and sign up today!

Floral Design Institute Director – Kathy Freeman-Hastings FDI

Floral Design Institute Director – Kathy Freeman-Hastings FDI

YOU CAN FIND ALL THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE FLORAL DESIGN INSTITUTE AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE
What defines a Floral Design Institute educator?

A passion for floral design and the desire to share that passion!

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

What has been one of the most interesting floral topics you have taught so far in your career?

Foliage manipulation techniques and the importance of line in design.

What floral topics do you think are over taught or not taught enough in the floral industry?

Clear vase design and hand tied bouquets

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

What advice do you have for designers looking to become a floral educator or presenter?

Try to learn to talk about what you are doing and why as your hands are working – be clear and concise. It is also important to be able to connect with your audience/students: humor and eye contact.

In your personal opinion what are some of the shortcomings in floral education that the industry should strive towards working on?

Working on speed in designing.

Floral Design Institute Instructors

Floral Design Institute Instructors


Floral Design Institute

Website: www.floraldesigninstitute.com
Phone: 1-800-819-8089
        1-503-223-8089
Email: info@floraldesigninstitute.com

Social Media
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Youtube

Course Schedule

 

Floral.today is thankful to Kathy and all the Floral Design Institute Instructors that were able to find the time for our viewers and to take part in Floral Education Month. Check out all that Floral Design Institute has to offer with the links above and show your support for one of the industries top floral industry schools.

Feature Designer, Featured Floral School, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

Beth Lane FDI – Floral Design Institute

 

Like many great designers Beth Lane FDI started out as a a delivery driver and has worked very hard to get where she is today, a Floral Design Institute Instructor. With over 35 years of experience throughout the industry Beth has gained experience and knowledge that has prepared her to be a great floral educator.

What defines a Floral Design Institute educator?

A person with a good work ethic. A team player – someone who not only has many years of floral knowledge and skill but someone who can be encouraging and is able to meet students where they’re at.

What has been one of the most interesting floral topics you have taught so far in your career?

I actually enjoy teaching about sympathy design. Some people are uncomfortable about this subject. It is a fact of life my perspective is that it is an “honor” to be part of the final tribute.

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

Do you have a philosophy when it comes to floral education?

For me, it is a privilege to be able to come along side our students. Many have dreamt of floral school for a very long time and we get to be part of that dream. Philosophy: Be kind and encourage.

What floral topics do you think are over taught or not taught enough in the floral industry?

Well… that’s top secret.

What difficulties do floral institutes face that floral shops and companies don’t face?

Floral schools have an ever changing population. We have students from literally all over the world. Communication is key in terms of speaking clearly, slowly and in understanding the students response.

What advice do you have for designers looking to become a floral educator or presenter?

You better like people! We ALL bring something to the table. Teachers must embrace the differences.

What do you think are some of the top floral educational advancements that have helped progress the industry?

Internet and specifically social media is huge in terms of networking with other designers in and outside of the country. The awareness and sharing of new things and techniques is but a click away.

How do you believe the US could increase it’s industry awareness to attract younger designers?

I want to see flowers at the Oscars, Golden Globes, Emmy, and SAG. At the ceremonies, not just the parties…more visibility overall.

Floral Design Institute Instructors

Floral Design Institute Instructors

Floral Design Institute

Website: www.floraldesigninstitute.com
Phone: 1-800-819-8089
        1-503-223-8089
Email: info@floraldesigninstitute.com

Social Media
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Youtube

Course Schedule

 

Thank you to Beth for taking dome time for Floral Education Month. You can contact the Floral Design Institute for all Beth’s course details.

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Feature Designer, Featured Floral School, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

Callie DeWolf AIFD, CFD, FDI – Floral Design Institute

Floral Design Institute Instrutor – Callie DeWolf AIFD, CFD, FDI

Floral Design Institute Instrutor – Callie DeWolf AIFD, CFD, FDI

Callie DeWolf AIFD, CFD, FDI went from a student in 2006 then transitioned and moved to portland to work for the Floral Design Institute. Callie instructs a wide variety of courses ranging from basic, advance and specialty courses, being a well round educator and designer. Make sure to visit the link below to sign up for one of Callie’s fun filled classes.

 

YOU CAN FIND ALL THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE FLORAL DESIGN INSTITUTE AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE
What defines a Floral Design Institute educator?

Floral Design Institute instructors are professional, caring, and passionate people, who bring their extensive knowledge and understanding of the industry to their students in and fun and approachable way.

What has been one of the most interesting floral topics you have taught so far in your career?

This is a tough one for me as each class brings new challenges and excitement. I would have to say that Large Scale is the most fun and interesting in the fact that there are so many ways to create a mechanically correct structure that supports a grad and awe inspiring design. Then I would have to say designing for completion and evaluation as this is such a different way of designing, it forces not only the designers to think differently, but also pushes us as teachers to teach in a different manor as the outcome of these designs is much different than for a customer.

Second would have to be basic floral design. When I first began to teach this subject it pushed me to find words for why I do what I do. Yes, I can make a beautiful hand tie bouquet, but how do you begin to verbalize that to a student who is in the virtual classroom. This was a wonderful challenge in the fact that it not only brought (and continues to bring) understanding to my students but also helped me to form a deeper understanding of the design process.

Do you have a philosophy when it comes to floral education?

Going to school can be stressful, especially when working through a distance learning program as so many FDI students are. In moments of stress or self-doubt I tell my students “Breathe deep and enjoy the flowers”.

Because really, the flowers are why we do what we do. The rest will fall into place in time; one just has to enjoy the process. J

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

With our ever-changing industry, where do you see floral education heading in the next 10-15 years?

With flowers becoming a more and more popular art form, finding new and innovative ways to educate will be essential. I foresee a greater demand for supplemental education, focused classes that discuss a certain aspect of design or the industry; a kind of build your own education if you will. Of course I think there will be a greater push towards online education. Which we are already seeing, and with that comes some unique challenges. How will we ensure quality education without a classroom? Technology will certainly be a large player in this shift. This is and will be an exciting time; the future of floral education is very bright.

 What floral topics do you think are over taught or not taught enough in the floral industry?

It is difficult to say what is over taught or under taught. If we look at just the design aspect, a strong foundation is needed to succeed with any medium, so this cannot be taught enough. Having a firm understanding of the elements and principles of design is essential. Our industry is always changing, and having that strong foundation to build upon will allow designers to evolve and stay current.

What difficulties do floral institutes face that floral shops and companies don’t face?

The challenges that institutions face is really in the classroom; whether it is in person or through distance learning, making sure that each and every students needs are being met and all learning styles are addressed with each lesson. Teachers must be able to change and adapt to the abilities and needs of each student, ensuring comprehension and long term understanding, making sure that the students have all the necessary tools and knowledge for success in a floral career.

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

Photo Property of Floral Design Institute

What advice do you have for designers looking to become a floral educator or presenter?

Get to know yourself and your style. Have fun with this, because having a solid understanding of who you are is very important in maintaining a strong consistent educational voice.

What do you think are some of the top floral educational advancements that have helped progress the industry?

The first one would have to be Floral Design Institute’s Distance Learning program—giggle; my bias had to come out somewhere. We have given students another option for their floral studies, while still maintaining all of the hands on training and feedback that they need in order to learn and grow as a designer. Graduates from our distance learning programs go on to very successful careers, which can only help to strengthen the floral industry as a whole. Besides that, we as floral designers have wonderful jobs, in the fact that there are always new products to play with, containers, ribbons, jewels, and of curse flowers, each of these is an advancement—maybe not a big one—but one that contributes and as a whole pushes us forward.

How do you believe the US could increase it’s industry awareness to attract younger designers?

Being a floral designer is glamorous; flowers are sexy; but how do we sell that to students or even potential students? I firmly believe that selling the art and the luxury of flowers is where we should begin. This comes down to strategic marketing of ones skills and artistic talents. How? A strong web presents is vital; not only with social media, but with blogs, and a well-designed user friendly website because this is where that younger demographic lives. By embracing technology and utilizing this to our fullest extent, we can capture the attention of younger designers and create a strong awareness for ourselves and the industry.

In your personal opinion what are some of the shortcomings in floral education that the industry should strive towards working on?

Floral institutions are not just for beginning education, they are your creative resource with endless possibilities and opportunities for every aspect of the floral industry. Creating strong working relationships between everyone is what will maintain our industry and keep us growing.

Floral Design Institute Instructors

Floral Design Institute Instructors

Floral Design Institute

Website: www.floraldesigninstitute.com
Phone: 1-800-819-8089
        1-503-223-8089
Email: info@floraldesigninstitute.com

Social Media
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Youtube

Course Schedule

 

Thanks to Callie for give us her point of view on floral education! Floral.today enjoys watching Callie’s personal Instagram as she fills up the world with beautiful floral pictures and design.

Stay Tuned,

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Feature Designer, Featured Floral School, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

David Kesler AIFD, PFCI, FDI – Floral Design Institute

From business to design David Kesler AIFD, PFCI, FDI of the Floral Design Institute is here for you! Some of the topics David is known for at the Floral Design Institute range from marketing and business to advance design skills and techniques. Just like his wife, Leanne Kesler AIFD, PFCI, FDI, David hosts a large variety of knowledge and extensive experience from years of involvement in our industry, so you know your in for a one of a kind learning adventure.

YOU CAN FIND ALL THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE FLORAL DESIGN INSTITUTE AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE
Floral Design Institute Director – David Kesler AIFD, PFCI, FDI

Floral Design Institute Director – David Kesler AIFD, PFCI, FDI

 

What defines a Floral Design Institute educator?

Floral Design Institute Instructors are talented and experienced in Floral Design. They are skilled in teaching methods and understanding of differing learning styles. Most importantly they are humble in their abilities, compassionate and able to encourage students to achieve the highest level of their abilities.

What has been one of the most interesting floral topics you have taught so far in your career?

The Floral Entrepreneurs’ Weekend; sixteen hours of the business of flowers, strategy, planning, site location, marketing, and finance, covering everything from cash flow spreadsheets to website design. It is such a joy to see the excitement, the entrepreneurial energy and the amazing new business ideas. We are going to see wonderful new floral businesses in the coming decade.

Do you have a philosophy when it comes to floral education?

You do not have to be a great designer to be a great teacher, but you must be a great teacher, “good-enough” is a disservice to the student. The ability to teach is both a gift and a burden of responsibility. Those who teach must first be insatiable students.

With our ever-changing industry, where do you see floral education heading in the next 10-15 years?

I see an increased importance placed on a strong foundation of floral design education. There will be an intensified value and demand for Floral Design Certification from premier schools offering substantive training. Training will remain hands-on, but will be primarily online / digital and much faster paced.

What floral topics do you think are over taught or not taught enough in the floral industry?

Over-taught; cookie-cutter, formulaic, design demonstrations

Under-taught; floral design basics, theory, mechanics & engineering, techniques, care & handling.

What difficulties do floral institutes face that floral shops and companies don’t face?

The easy answer is “governmental regulations”. However, I also believe that schools need to be licensed and regulated. There needs to be guidelines and accountability. But, less paperwork would be nice.

What advice do you have for designers looking to become a floral educator or presenter?

You must love to teach more than you love to design. You must want to share more than you want to create. You must learn to design and speak at the same time, and you must be humble.

What do you think are some of the top floral educational advancements that have helped progress the industry?

No question, technology. The ability to instantly create, share and critique anywhere in the world.

How do you believe the US could increase its industry awareness to attract younger designers?

Be nice to new designers; encourage, promote and celebrate them. And yes, a living wage is important.

In your personal opinion what are some of the shortcomings in floral education that the industry should strive towards working on?

Too many in the industry are clinging to the status quo. We must seek out, welcome and embrace change.

Floral Design Institute Instructors

Floral Design Institute Instructors


Floral Design Institute

Website: www.floraldesigninstitute.com
Phone: 1-800-819-8089
        1-503-223-8089
Email: info@floraldesigninstitute.com

Social Media
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Youtube

Course Schedule

 

Thank you to David for taking the time for Floral.today and Education Month! We look forward to seeing David and the Floral Design Institute at this years AIFD Symposium Partners Expo, July 1st!

Join us tomorrow for the rest of the amazing Floral Design Institute Team,

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Feature Designer, Featured Floral School, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

Leanne Kesler AIFD, PFCI, FDI – Floral Design Institute

 

For the whole weekend we are bringing you one of the most recognized and loved floral school in the United States, the Floral Design Institute! Floral.today is starting off the weekend with the directors, Leanne Kesler AIFD, PFCI, FDI and David Kesler AIFD, PFCI, FDI and then featuring all their amazing educators throughout Sunday. So sit back and enjoy the passion these wonderful educators have to share with you for Floral Education Month!

YOU CAN FIND ALL THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE FLORAL DESIGN INSTITUTE AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE
Floral Design Institute Director - Leann Kessler AIFD, PFCI, FDI

Floral Design Institute Director – Leanne Kesler AIFD, PFCI, FDI

What defines a Floral Design Institute educator?

A Floral Design Institute educator is a talented designer with the ability to verbalize articulately the techniques, mechanics, elements and principles of design. They also have a deep understanding of learning styles and how to teach to each successfully.

What has been one of the most interesting floral topics you have taught so far in your career?

I would have to say the Wedding Floral Specialist Course is a favorite but, the Designing for Evaluation and Competition has been the most interesting by far. Designed for skilled floral artists, this class brings an amazing creative energy to the Learning Center. Every time I have taught this class I have come away with a new thought, concept or technique to add to my own skill library and pass on to future students.

Do you have a philosophy when it comes to floral education?

I believe floral education must be presented in three ways – students must hear the lesson, read the lesson and see the lesson demonstrated. Understanding and mastery of the skill is achieved when the student is able to finish the cycle by presenting the material to the instructor in all three formats – explaining the concept verbally, writing out the information and creating the design.

On a deeper note: I believe floral education begins at an early age with the first blooming weed pulled from the garden and continues through life. Floral education ends when the soul begins to die.

With our ever-changing industry, where do you see floral education heading in the next 10-15 years?

I see the need for focused, intense instruction on a precise need. It may be simply hand tied bouquets mastered by the street corner or grocery store florist or focused instruction on the hand work of corsages and boutonnieres. As with all things, specialization has become the key to success.

I also see the need for on-demand, specialized, on-line education. We have addressed this with our Flower Lovers Club. These members have 24-7 access to five private educational libraries and streamlined access to a Floral Design Institute floral specialist when they have a question.

What floral topics do you think are over taught or not taught enough in the floral industry?

I don’t think anything is over-taught in our industry. There really can’t be too much education. Under-taught would have to be the basics – it breaks my heart to see fabulous creative designs fail due to poor mechanics and/or poor care and handling practices.

What difficulties do floral institutes face that floral shops and companies don’t face?

That would have to be government regulations. Meeting the requirements of the Department of Education within the realm of servicing the needs of our floral industry can be quite challenging and an exercise in patience.

What advice do you have for designers looking to become a floral educator or presenter?

Attend every seminar and school you possibly can. Determine what is missing and what you can do better… then do it! When preparing to be a school owner, I visited European schools, studied with many floral artists and read every book I could get my hands on. Then, when I saw what areas were not being fully provided for, that is where we focused. I can confidently say, our Basic and Advanced programs to become a Certified Floral Designer are the best in the world.

On a side note, as you prepare to teach, it helps to verbalize what you are doing as you create an arrangement. Your co-workers may think you are a little weird but…oh, well!

What do you think are some of the top floral educational advancements that have helped progress the industry?

Technology is king. We now have access to information from anywhere in the world at anytime. Second would be the ease of transportation. Flowers come to you from anywhere and you can go to flowers anywhere. That means you can go study anywhere – How cool is that?!?!?!

How do you believe the US could increase it’s industry awareness to attract younger designers?

Go to them. Don’t wait for them to come to you. Reach out in both the physical and virtual worlds. Visit their studios and celebrate their successes. Join them in the social world and see what has them excited.

In your personal opinion what are some of the shortcomings in floral education that the industry should strive towards working on?

The biggest shortcoming in our industry is not just education but the industry as a whole. We’ve forgotten how fun it is to be a florist. We’ve forgotten to focus on what we can do. We’ve forgotten we are in charge of our business. We’ve forgotten to put ourselves first. We have become an industry of reaction rather than taking proactive steps forward.

Open your eyes to all there is. Choose to set your boundaries and enjoy the privilege of working with fresh cut flowers every day.

Floral Design Institute Instructors

Floral Design Institute Instructors

Floral Design Institute

Website: www.floraldesigninstitute.com
Phone: 1-800-819-8089
        1-503-223-8089
Email: info@floraldesigninstitute.com

Social Media
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Youtube

Course Schedule

Huge thanks to Leanne for taking the time to share her passion for floral education with us and all the Floral Design Institute educators that have yet to come. Make sure to stop by the Floral Design Institute both at this years AIFD Symposium Partners Expo and to check out all the fantastic floral courses they offer.

Till Next Time,

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Featured Floral School, Floral Companies, Floral Education Month, Industry Events

Mississippi State University – Dr. James M. DelPrince, Ph.D., AIFD, PFCI

Mississippi State University and Dr. James M. DelPrince, Ph.D., AIFD, PFCI are not just staples of a strong history of degree level floral education but one of the last major American Universities offering floral education programs. With the onsite flower shop, The University Florist, and 20 Floral Management concentrated majors offered by MSU and Dr. DelPrince, students are guaranteed to be prepared to go into floral careers throughout the industry ranging from retail, wholesale to media and product development.

 Assistant Professor of FLoral Design Opening Click Here for more information!

Floral Management is a concentration in the Horticulture major, Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Mississippi State University is a Land-Grant Institution of Higher learning located in Starkville, Mississippi.

YOU CAN FIND ALL THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR Mississippi state university and Dr. delprince AT THE END OF THE ARTICLE
Members of MSU's Student Chapter of the American Institute of Floral Designers offer football game attendees corsages in the school colors of maroon and white, celebrating and continuing a football tradition.

Members of MSU’s Student Chapter of the American Institute of Floral Designers offer football game attendees corsages in the school colors of maroon and white, celebrating and continuing a football tradition.

What advice do you have for designers looking to become a university floral educator or advisor?

Universities generally require a terminal degree in the applicant’s area of expertise. To become a university professor, a doctorate may be required in the area of expertise or related area. Some university faculty hold positions with master of arts or master of sciences degrees if the job allows. Generally, the parent department of the program of study sets employment guidelines. Floral design teaching is usually situated in departments where horticulture science is taught; hence a dominant environment of science may surround teaching and presentation of floral design for the faculty member.

Another strong consideration is whether or not the job is tenure track. Tenure is a career long contract with the university and can only be obtained through regular, rigorous evaluation based upon the faculty member’s performance in the tripartite mission of the U.S. Land Grant system. This involves high levels of performance in teaching, research and service. Not all floral design teaching positions in higher education are tenure track.

Not all Land Grant institutions have floral design programs or even singular courses. Departments, colleges and the university itself must realize a need for such study, develop proposals from faculty within, review and approve the proposals. Such proposals require a demonstrated need for the courses, faculty and administrator support, and much time, measured in years, for development. Being a university faculty member at a Land Grant Institution entails understanding and skills in floral design along with commitments to scholarship, teaching and service.

Beyond teaching floral design theory and practice, floral design faculty must develop scholarship through academic writing, juried exhibitions and/or other creative outputs on par with peer reviewed journal articles. Interaction with members of the community and beyond such as community workshops, floral industry organization leadership, trade journal writing and garden club demonstrations illustrate some of the types of service that constitute university outreach. Teaching may involve formal courses in floral design, from foundational, survey-type courses for horticulture majors and others, to advanced courses in wedding floral, permanent botanical and others.

A floral design instructor/professor may have other teaching assignments such as to oversee the operations of an on-campus retail floral shop, horticulture courses (for example, introduction to gardening, interior plantscaping), student advising and more. A faculty position at a college or university is dynamic and challenging every day. It requires a sincere effort to continually build the program through better teaching, scholarship and outreach.

Ty Leslie, AIFD, of Charleston, South Carolina has been an AIFD Artist in Residence.  Dried floral materials courtesy Knud Nielsen Co., Evergreen, Alabama.

Ty Leslie, AIFD, of Charleston, South Carolina has been an AIFD Artist in Residence. Dried floral materials courtesy Knud Nielsen Co., Evergreen, Alabama.

Who have been some of the most influential floral industry guest speakers that Mississippi State University has hosted?

Over the years, MSU has hosted dozens of high-profile, creative floral designers to demonstrate construction and offer educational business advice to our students and beyond.


A brief list includes:
Coble, Kevin
Dennis, Roger
Gilliam, Hitomi
Lemanski, Carl
Leslie, Ty
McGukin, Sharon
Null, Ralph
Poeltler, Julie
Pollitz, Rocky
Proctor, Tracy
Raulerson, Brooke
Schwanke, J
Shelton, Frankie
Smith, Joseph
Vetter, Brian
Wood, Matt
Yanos, Emil
Gary Wells

As an active Student Chapter of the American Institute of Floral Designers, MSU is required to host at least one Artist in Residence program per year. Mississippi State University held the first ever AIR Program with Dan Upchurch AIFD in 1988.

Brooke Raulerson, AIFD of Fernandina Beach, Florida instructs students on the finer points of competition in her Artist in Residence visit.

Brooke Raulerson, AIFD of Fernandina Beach, Florida instructs students on the finer points of competition in her Artist in Residence visit.

Do you have a philosophy when it comes to floral education?

Several years ago, one of our university presidents Dr. Donald Zacharias gave the commencement exercise speech as one of the last things he did prior to his retirement. I remember his message to the graduates because it was pure and clear, “always tell the truth”. I believe to be a good teacher, you must be a good student, and continue to be a student. Seeking out the truth and keeping on its pathway allows one to be creative and not mired in problems. As a technique in the classroom, unless a student truly needs help, I find it is best to leave them alone when they design. I am not stating that the teacher leave the facility, but simply allow the student to finish their work. As a young teacher, I dove in too early to rescue what I thought was a bad placement or perhaps a meandering line. It bothers me to see students, no matter their age or level, interfered with while designing. One of the things I would like to do is to teach floral design slowly, spending an hour to demonstrate a design, and then offer students 90 or more minutes to replicate it, then take another hour for critiques, whether one by one or as a group. A slower approach sounds so good in these days of frenzied speed and need for practice.

Kailie Dunlap and Madeline Hawes, former MSU-SAIFD Presidents, help to promote the Student Competition at the AIFD National Symposium.

Kailie Dunlap and Madeline Hawes, former MSU-SAIFD Presidents, help to promote the Student Competition at the AIFD National Symposium.

Who do you find are the most influential designers or outlets for young designers?

I think some of the best designers are hidden within the industry. They are well known by their clientele, but not necessarily by other florists. They may or may not interact with professional organizations. I think it is not best to worship at the altar of celebrity, but to gain knowledge from many sources. I notice altogether too often, the designs made by celebrity designers, using boxes of Hydrangea and Phalaenopsis in their event designs, are essentially creating hemispherical mound arrangements. This is the same design form we teach and learn as a foundation in floral design. In other words, study and achievement of introductory theory will help a florist succeed.

The Sympathy Floral Design class as one of many projects, made a floral blanket, similar to the historic AIDS Quilt, using Oasis Sculpting Sheets.  The design was displayed outdoors on the campus for one week and remained fresh in the cool weather.

The Sympathy Floral Design class as one of many projects, made a floral blanket, similar to the historic AIDS Quilt, using Oasis Sculpting Sheets. The design was displayed outdoors on the campus for one week and remained fresh in the cool weather.

In your personal opinion what are some of the shortcomings in floral education that the industry should strive towards working on?

My personal opinion is that teachers, and especially students, get caught up in technique rather than underlying theory. It should be an industry standard to have a collegiate degree in horticulture in order to be a florist. Florists go blindly into a cut flower cooler without really knowing plant material. If you do not know something, you cannot fully appreciate it. Too many florists who take pay for their work do not know, and therefore appreciate, the principles of floral design. Because of this, their vocabulary and communication is limited. I sympathize with them because this is how I began my career. I loved flowers, so I registered for a vendor’s license and sold flowers from my parents’ basement while I was in high school. During my college years, I had the great fortune to be an intern with the Ohio Florists Association, which is now AmericanHort. We conducted numerous surveys with attendees asking them what topics they wanted to learn about or what their problems were in the workplace. Most always, the common problem was communication. It may have been lacking between employer and employee or with customers or the general public. So, this goes back to my point: if you do not know the common language, how can you communicate effectively?

This is one of about 15 projects students complete in Floral Design, a course with an enrollment of about 90 students each semester.  It is an art elective on the university core course list.

This is one of about 15 projects students complete in Floral Design, a course with an enrollment of about 90 students each semester. It is an art elective on the university core course list.

How much support does Mississippi State University floral programs receive from the industry and the school itself and do you think it is enough to insure a strong future for the floral industry

I feel that Mississippi State University is very supportive of our formal degree program and the endeavors of The University Florist. This comes from much hard work on the part of faculty and students to deliver the quality possible in learning and teaching. MSU Floral Management is strongly supported by industry and industry organizations.

Kevin Coble, AIFD of Memphis, Tennessee shared floral design talent and insights with his Artist in Residence program.

Kevin Coble, AIFD of Memphis, Tennessee shared floral design talent and insights with his Artist in Residence program.

With our ever-changing industry, where do you see floral education heading in the next 10-15 years?

Students are interested in event/bridal floral design these days. In a way, it has been great to see high profile weddings in the news because it attracts people to learning and, in turn, the floral industry. I feel that once students learn about the diversity of floriculture careers, they find their own pathways. In the future, I believe the lines will continue to blur between the science and art of horticulture. I find the students majoring in ornamental horticulture are getting very creative, thus they are enabling themselves to do it all, from growing to designing. I am looking for the floral management majors to delve into growing their own floral material, like florists in the 19th to the mid-20th centuries. I also feel that florist business will be diversified, with revenue streams coming from interior plantscaping, nursery and other departments within the same business. Thirty years ago, progressive shops carried gifts. Many florist shops today have food venues attached, such as coffee shops and catering. Some flower shops now carry clothing, so it will be fun to see what happens next with floral market, a place that attracts creative people who easily become bored with the mundane.

Visiting artist Hitomi Gilliam, AIFD taught students in various classes as well as designed for a community audience.  Her Artist in Residence program centered on the importance of professional floristry.

Visiting artist Hitomi Gilliam, AIFD taught students in various classes as well as designed for a community audience. Her Artist in Residence program centered on the importance of professional floristry.

What are some of the best floral education opportunities available to young designers?

The American Floral Endowment sponsors the Mosmiller Scholarship, which aids in pairing students with internship sites in retail or wholesale floristry. The AIFD Foundation funds scholarships for students in degree programs emphasizing floral design as well as professional florists to attend AIFD Symposia. AIFD continues to offer valuable interaction at the institutional, regional and national levels. I am biased, but I feel that if an institution goes to the trouble of maintaining an active SAIFD Chapter, they care to be the best they can be. See this site for a complete list of colleges and universities with SAIFD Chapters.

aifd.org/students/saifd-chapters

A sample of wire frames from the Leyes Collection housed at Mississippi State University.  These antique floral mechanics were used as based for designs from the 1860s well into the 20th century.

A sample of wire frames from the Leyes Collection housed at Mississippi State University. These antique floral mechanics were used as based for designs from the 1860s well into the 20th century.

What do you think are some of the top floral educational advancements that have helped progress the industry?

Research in breeding and hybridizing has helped to advance the floral industry. We have plant materials available year-round with larger flowers, more colors and longer vase life. These attributes were born at universities through horticultural research. It is easy for those who do not know the history of the Land Grant Institution to take flowers for granted. In addition to this, the Internet and on line education has made learning floral design more accessible. It will continue to do so.

Students practice contemporary work as well as traditional and even forgotten floral design styles and techniques during their degree program.  Design by Abby Jenkins.

Students practice contemporary work as well as traditional and even forgotten floral design styles and techniques during their degree program. Design by Abby Jenkins.

Do you believe the US floral industry does enough to create interest and jobs for future designers?

I do feel there is awareness, but the underlying problem is the low pay scale for designers and awareness of educational opportunities. If the industry as a whole could offer better pay, it would attract more talent. Other sectors of the industry could partner with our formal education programs, including wholesaling, transport, mass market, and manufacturing. Bachelor of Science students are equipped to take on jobs with greater responsibilities after graduation, particularly after semester-long internships and upper level coursework. They just need encouragement to leave the family nest. I have seen terrific talent leave with a degree in hand, but search for jobs too close to home, thus keeping themselves from better careers. Talent, honesty, learning, daring and passion are necessary for success in floral industry careers.

Mississippi State University

Website: www.msstate.edu

Plant and Soil Science Website: www.pss.msstate.edu

The University Florist Website: www.theuniversityflorist.com

Phone: (662) 549-0521  


Dr. James M. DelPrince, Ph.D., AIFD, PFCI

Website: pss.msstate.edu/faculty/associate
Phone: (662) 549-0521
Email: jdelprince@pss.msstate.edu

We look forward to all the talented Mississippi State University designers and wish them all the best of luck with their futures in our industry. Thank you to Dr. James M. DelPrince, Ph.D., AIFD, PFCI for taking the time out of his busy schedule for all of our Floral.today followers and to help us all better understand floral education.

Join us tomorrow as we will be bring you interviews and articles every day till June 30th!

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