Floristry

Little flower, but if I could understand, what you are, root and all, all in all I should know what God and man is. ~ Tennyson

Flowers are one of the most beautiful creations of God, loved and adored by human beings ever since. Flowers have always been used to express love and affection, to celebrate festivals, to offer prayers to God as well as to pay tribute to the deceased. No doubt about the fact that a flower in itself is a piece of art, but there exists an art form that uses flowers to create art - Floristry. The term floristry collectively refers to creating floral designs using flowers, foliage, herbs ornamental grasses and arranging them in flower vases, baskets, bouquets and so on.

What is floristry?

The term floristry refers to the activity of cultivating plants and creating floral designs that are then sold at florist shops. Floristry is actually being reckoned as a very successful business due to the increased importance of flowers at lavish weddings, anniversary and birthday parties, and other special occasions as well as funeral services.

What are the important styles of floristry?

Almost every country or region will have their own unique style of floristry. However there are some floristry styles that are very popular across the globe. Here are some of the popular styles of floristry:

Ikebana: The Japanese style of flower arrangement termed as Ikebana is a traditional and distinctive style of floristry practiced in Japan since more than 600 years and is said to have developed from Buddhist rituals. Ikebana flower arrangement is based on the layout of twigs and/or leaves filled in with relatively less number of flowers. The container and the structure of arrangement of flowers are of prime importance. The arrangement is always in a scalene triangle, wherein the three main points symbolize heaven, earth and man.

Korean Flower Arrangement:This is a form of indoor art that involves display of orean flowers in Josean Dynasty whiteware. The arrangement of the flowers and tree branches is very graceful and does not look forced or artificial.

High Style: The high style of floral arrangement has its origins in the United States. This style includes minimal number of flowers. The popular flowers used in this style are tropical flowers including Birds of Paradise, Anthuriums and Carnations.

The English Country Garden: Traditionally an English form of flower arrangement, that has evolved to include many European influences as well. The English Country Garden Style of Floristry is all ways low mound and the arrangements are always all-sided. Flowers like baby’s breath, carnations and leatherleaf are avoided in this style of floristry.

What skills does floristry require?

Basic understanding of design elements is an essential skill that you would require if you wish to pursue floristry. Love for flowers, and good visualization skills with a knack for color combinations, and retail skills would be of great help. Good skills for cutting flowers, leaves and branches to create beautiful flower arrangements. Sound knowledge of the styles of the various styles of flower arrangement will be helpful if you wish to pursue floristry.

Are there any professional courses in the field of floristry?

Yes, a number of universities offer professional floristry courses. In case you are looking for a short term learning experience, there are various floristry workshops conducted that can help you to pursue a career in floristry.

What is the scope of floristry as a career?

If you wish to start your floristry business, you need to plan your budget according to the type of floral arrangements you will be doing, the flowers you will be requiring (whether you will be cultivating flowers or buying them from someone else), the clients you are targeting and the location for your flower shop. Nowadays there are online florist shops that offer the customers the convenience of ordering flowers from home. Floristry is a growing business with the ever-increasing amounts of money people are willing to spend for flowers.