Floral design isn’t just an art—it’s a career path full of endless possibilities. As floral design teachers, we have the unique opportunity to inspire our students to explore rewarding careers in this creative field. By making learning hands-on, building connections with industry professionals, and providing real-world experiences like running the Tiger Lily shop, we can truly help shape the future of floral design.
Highlighting Student Successes
There’s nothing better than seeing our students succeed and knowing we played a part in their journey. I love celebrating the stories of students who’ve gone on to do amazing things in the floral industry. Here are a few examples:
One former student launched their own wedding floral business after participating in class competitions.
Another secured an internship at a top flower shop and worked their way up to being the lead designer.
Several have won big at floral design contests, showcasing their talent and hard work on a competitive stage.
Sharing these successes is a great way to inspire current students and remind them that their dreams can become a reality.
Benefits of In-Class Flower Shops like Tiger Lily
Running an in-class flower shop like Tiger Lily is one of the best ways to give students real-world experience. It’s not just about arranging flowers; it’s about learning how to run a business. Students tackle inventory management, customer service, and even pricing their designs—all while building confidence and professional skills. Some of the key benefits include:
Developing teamwork and communication skills.
Gaining a solid understanding of how a business operates.
Taking pride in their work and seeing their efforts pay off.
Tiger Lily is a fantastic example of how a classroom project can prepare students for success in the floral industry.
Steps to Build Community Partnerships
If you want to extend your students’ learning beyond the classroom, building community partnerships is the way to go. These connections open so many doors, from internships to job placements. Here’s how to get started:
Host Guest Speakers: Invite local florists, event planners, or suppliers to share their expertise.
Organize Field Trips: Take students to wholesale flower markets, flower shops, or even live event setups.
Set Up Mentorships: Pair students with professionals in the field for one-on-one learning opportunities.
These partnerships not only give students a glimpse into the real world but also help them start building their own networks for the future.
Resources for Professional Development
We can’t pour into our students if we’re not filling our own cups, too. Staying inspired and growing our own skills is just as important. Here are some of my favorite ways to keep learning:
Workshops: Attend local or national floral design workshops to pick up new ideas and techniques.
Retreats: Events like the Cultivated Blooms retreat are perfect for connecting with other educators and refreshing your creativity.
Online Courses: There are so many virtual options out there tailored specifically for floral educators.
Professional Organizations: Groups like the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) offer certifications, resources, and a community of like-minded professionals.
When we invest in ourselves, we’re better equipped to guide and inspire our students.
Call to Action
Are you ready to take your floral design classroom to the next level? Check out Cultivated Blooms for resources and inspiration, and join us at our next retreat. Together, we can inspire the next generation of floral designers and watch them bloom into their full potential.
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