Thinking of a career as a florist...

[Ellegirly 74]

Hi there
I am having a baby next year and will be giving up my job as a secretary to spend time with my baby next year. I would like to possibly re-train in something else whilst I have the opportunity and was wondering if anyone could advise me on a career as a florist.
What training to do and if it can be a fulfilling and well paid career or not?
I would eventually like to have my own florist shop, but not sure if I would need to work in a florist shop first?
Also, there is a slight problem with this career choice in that I suffer with hayfever! Am I totally barking up the wrong tree with this as a career?!
Please be honest all round! Thanks.

[Hawkwalk]

http://www.flowers.org.uk/industry/training-jo bs.htm

take a look at this site for some good info,

Not that well paid unless you own your own shop. Not a good idea if you have bad hayfever. It will only be fulfilling if it suits you, so only you can answer that. Getting on the job experience and training is the best way to get into it.

[pingping]

a friend of mine was considering this as a career change as well. she enrolled on a local college's evening class in flower arranging to get a better idea of flowers; how to prolong the life of cut flowers; and of course how to arrange them in bouquets/table decorations. She really enjoyed it, but isn't convinced that she wants a career in it.

This might be the best way forward for you too. An evening course would allow your to see how much your allergy is affected, and give you an insight into the career.

[Ellegirly 74]

Thank you both for your answers. I might look into an evening class to see if I like it. I am not 100% sure it will be for me as a career, I think I just like the idea of my own pretty little florist shop somewhere and doing lots of weddings! But I am sure in reality it's not quite like that.