About Certification

Washington Flower School offers comprehensive Certificate Courses for aspiring florists and those seeking an in‑depth foundation in floral design, providing hands‑on instruction from award‑winning designers with extensive industry experience. Our small class sizes ensure individualized attention so students can build the technical and creative skills essential for a career in floral design. As an Education Partner with the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), we are able to recommend students who complete our program and meet all requirements to be submitted as candidates for the CFD certification. The required courses are fully comprehensive, and students receive a Certificate of Completion for each class.

Our Certified Floral Designer (CFD)

Certification Program

Required Courses

  • Basic Floral Design - In person course at Park Florist in Takoma Park, MD; offered multiple times per year. Read the full course description here.

  • Exploring the Elements and Principles of Design - Virtual Zoom course; offered multiple times per year

  • Advanced Floral Design - In person course at Park Florist in Takoma Park, MD'; offered multiple times per year

  • Applied Floral Design Lab - Hybrid course: Virtual via Zoom and in person at Park Florist, Takoma Park, MD; offered multiple times per year

  • Capstone - In person course at Park Florist in Takoma Park, MD'; offered on an occasional basis

Electives

The following classes are designed to augment the general curriculum for those interested in deeper understanding and practice in different aspects of the floral industry. Each of these courses is comprehensive; students will receive a Certificate of Completion following each of the classes. Courses are offered based on instructor availability and may be virtual, in person, or hybrid.

  • Sympathy and Floral Tribute Design

  • Wedding: Flowers to Carry

  • Wedding: Ceremony Design

  • Events: Reception Design

  • Wearable Flowers

  • Starting a Home Based Floral Business

Competition and Advanced Certification Preparation

The following classes are designed to help prepare students for advanced certification or competition work. A Certificate of Completion will be awarded following completion of each course. Courses are offered based on instructor availability and may be virtual, in person, or hybrid.

  • Applying the Elements and Principles of Design

  • Armatures and Advanced Mechanics

  • Decorative Techniques

  • Advanced Floral Design Lab and Critique

Masterclass Series

The following classes are designed to help advanced students who wish to advance in the profession. A Certificate of Completion will be awarded following completion of each course. Courses are offered based on instructor availability and may be virtual, in person, or hybrid.

  • Critical Analysis of Floral Compositions for Educators, Evaluators and Judges