Meet our students
Pearsons School of Floristry is proud to have many current students and graduates with wonderful floristry careers. You can meet some of them below...
Jennie Keogh - PCDC Graduate
Jennie Keogh completed her Commercial Floristry course in 2008. Formerly an administrator in the not-for-profit sector, she has since started her own business, Merci Bouquet in Epping.
‘Leaving something you know inside out for something you know nothing about is exciting,’ says Jennie. ‘Although there is a lot of inner turmoil when you realise you’re going to be a junior in your 30’s.’
Nevertheless Jennie put everything on the line for her new business venture in floristry. She says that despite the long hours she is driven by the creativity and excitement of the industry.
‘I love the markets and the flower selection - it really gets the creative juices flowing. I like dealing with people such as the growers and suppliers – you learn so much and they’re such interesting people. I also love talking with customers and hearing about why they’re buying the flowers. Flowers are purchased at some of the most important stages of life – birth, birthdays, anniversaries, death. I always find it an honour when asked to convey their message through my work.’
Jennie has now taken on PSF student Anly Chen (below left) to work with her at Merci Bouquet.
‘Anly was confident enough to approach customers in the store and help them, so I decided very quickly that I wanted her to stick around. She is also a go-getter like I was and took on as much work experience as she
could as well as having her own start up business from home. Her floristry work is gorgeous and she fits in well with the vision I have for the business. She’s like a breath of fresh air because I often become so stuck in the day to day of running a shop that I need someone like her to inspire me again.’
‘Everything about floristry excites me,’ says Anly. ‘It’s a labour intensive profession but I enjoy every minute of it. It is a lifelong passion that I only wish I’d found earlier in my life. My favourite thing about floristry would be executing an order from start to finish - waking up at 4am, going to the markets buying flowers, interacting with the growers and suppliers. Then coming home to create and apply all my design vision onto a floral design piece and finally delivering it to the recipient. It makes it all worthwhile when you can make a difference in someone else’s life.’
Jennie is soon to become a first time mum while Anly will take over the reins of the business for several months. Anly says, ‘This is a big challenge for me and I am very excited about this opportunity. Jennie puts a lot of faith in me; I hope I will make her proud.’
After having her first baby, Jennie has dreams to grow her business to be a recognisable Sydney floristry brand with an established and loyal client base and more stores.
‘When you love what you do you don’t mind the hard work,’ says Jennie. ‘I complain about feeling achy and tired and never having enough time to do all I want, but I love what I do. I am so proud of my shop and what I have achieved over the last three months since taking on Epping Florist. I’ve never been happier in my life, I wouldn’t change a thing.’
Styling Session, July 2010
The wives of farmers attending the NSW Farmer/Young Farmer of the Year awards turned their hands to floristry at a special Styling Session at Sydney Showground with Pearsons trainer Heidi.
The farmers' wives enjoyed learning all about flowers, colour and design while creating gorgeous table centre arrangements for the farmers' annual gala dinner. The arrangements featured cymbidium orchids and tropical anthurium.
If you would like to attend a floral styling session at Pearsons School of Floristry, click here for our current timetable.
To organise a special off-site workshop at your own location, contact us.
Sarah Cairns - PCDC Graduate
Sarah moved from Tasmania to Sydney in 2008. ‘It has been a good career move,’ says Sarah. ‘Sydney has great opportunities if you want to work in floristry. I wanted to work in a creative yet hands on job that changes with the seasons.’
Sarah enrolled on the Pearsons School of Floristry Commercial Design Course. ‘Pearsons worked with my schedule and was central to get to,’ said Sarah. ‘I also liked that it was an accelerated course so I was work-ready in just one year.’
While studying, Sarah gained work experience at a Sydney florist and has now secured a full time job with Jodie McGregor Flowers.
‘My workplace is a lovely shop on the main road in Castlecrag filled with lots of seasonal flowers including a great range of Australian natives,’ says Sarah. ‘We have 1 to 3 staff working each day, so we all have lots
of hands on time working with the flowers, creating something special for our customers.’
Sarah doesn’t regret for a second her career change to floristry and recommends others try pursuing their passion in life.
‘The course at Pearsons gave me a really good grounding in the basics of floristry and helped me to get a job in the industry. I strongly recommend everyone go for it – working in an area that you are interested in and challenged by is so much more satisfying. Life is too short to work in a job that you don’t like!’
Student Work Experience
Students from Modules 1 and 2 of Pearsons Commercial Floristry Course participated in a fabulous work experience day at Pearsons Florist.
Under the expert guidance of master florist and trainer Andreas Huelck, the students produced beautiful table centre arrangements for The Might & Power gala fundraising luncheon at Rosehill Racecourse, attended by 750 people in support of The Spastic Centre.
Kelly Jeans - PCDC Graduate
With a background in marketing and events, Kelly's love for flowers began in her childhood. She remembers her Dad buying her and her sister flowers when they were younger. After moving to Australia from the UK, Kelly began to notice the variety of flowers here and loved native flowers in particular.
What attracted Kelly to Pearsons School of Floristry was the 1 day a week attendance which allowed her to still work whilst doing the course. The location of the school and the quality of information provided were further deciding factors in her choice.
"My goal when I enrolled, was to be good enough to work in a florist, and to learn enough to one day start my own business", says Kelly. She began working for Dragonfly Floral Designs (also an ex-Pearsons graduate) while she was studying the course and now currently works for Primrose & Thyme in Cremorne.
When asked if she has achieved her goal, Kelly says "Yes, I achieved my goal. PSF not only taught me floristry but business skills, gave me contacts with other florists in the industry and inspired me enormously. I feel I have the information to start my own company." says Kelly.
When asked about her future goals, Kelly says "to keep doing floristry as a career and keep learning. To do flowers for my friends and family and one day start my own business."
Her advise to someone considering floristry as a career is this. "Try a day course or some work experience to see if its for you. The more work experience I gained the easier I found the course" says Kelly.
Pictured: Kelly at Primrose & Thyme
Therese Muratore - PCDC Graduate
Ten years since doing Pearsons School of Floristry's Commercial course, Therese Muratore is still enjoying the creative change she made! Her previous role as a Visual Merchandiser involved creating stylish window displays for David Jones, Myer and Country Road.
"I wanted a change from visual merchandising, but I still wanted to do something creative." says Therese who enrolled in Pearsons Commercial Course. She loved the convenience of having all her flowers in the classroom and attending the course 1 day a week (Saturdays) so she could still keep her full-time job.
Currently, she works at Pearsons Florists Workroom and makes 30 orders on average a day. "I enjoy doing corporates and creating really big displays and would like to specialise in events and functions." Her advice to those that would like to try floristry? "If you have a passion to work with flowers, then explore it further as you don't have anything to lose but all to gain!"
Pictured: Therese with corporate arrangements in Pearsons Workroom
Justine Ford - PCDC Graduate
Whilst studying a Communciations degree and working in marketing & hospitality industry, Justine decided to do the Pearsons Commercial course to do something creative! She not only wanted to get the course done as quickly as possible, but also liked the idea of not having to go to the flower markets each week!
Without the intention of a career change, Justine found that she was inspired by what she did and discovered she had more options open to her than having an office job! She finished the course and worked for Pearsons Florist for a year. After a six month break, she returned and now manages the Pearsons QVB store. She also hosts floral demonstrations for corporate events.
Her advise to someone considerng a career in floristry is to have great communication skills and be comfortable not only in the creative side of floristry but also in sales.
Justine's goals for the future include teaching floristy and further study in horticulture.
Pictured: Justine at Pearsons QVB store
Helen Chhauv - PCDC Graduate
Helen's love of flowers began in her childhood. A friend of hers owned a florist shop and inspired her to become a florist. Helen decided to study Pearsons fast-tracked Commercial course.
"Pearsons is a well established school if you are going to study floristry here, the industry knowledge shared is a huge help when you are just starting out. You can still manage your day to day with ease and not be stressed by markets etc. You become a qualified florist in a flexible learning environment with help and support of trainers and staff." Helen says.
After graduating, she worked as a florist for 4 years, gaining as much knowledge and experience in the industry. She then decided to take a break from it all and entered the corporate world. All the while, Helen kept her hand in floristry as a creative outlet, building a database and clientele of customers. It was at this point, that she realised her real passion was in bridal floristry.
Everytime she delivers her bridal bouquets, she feels as if she has really achieved something. The biggest reward for her is talking with her customers and making their dreams come true with beautiful flowers.
Her advise for soemone considering a career in floristry - "If you love it , just do it! If it is something you are passionate about , then don't let anything get in your way. Keep in mind that it is more than just floristry, understanding of business, knowing how to buy and when to buy certain flowers. You are constantly kept on your toes!"
Visit Helen's website - www.sweetbride.com.au
Christine O'Donnell - PCDC Graduate
When Christine enrolled in Pearsons Commercial course, she was working in the pharmaceutical industry.
“Pearsons is the only college that offers a fast-tracked course that allowed me to keep my full time job and ween myself off it when I was ready to start my floristry business.” Christine says.
PSF taught her the floristry skills she needed and with industry active trainers, this allowed her to learn and connect with the industry much quicker than she initially thought. "The honesty that they offered and the personal approach taken by all my trainers and by Barbara, (Director of the School) gave me a lot of guidance and advice in my new venture. I am very grateful for the encouragement and support."
“My goal was to be a full-time Sydney florist and make a living from floristry. I always knew I wanted to open my own business.” Christine has recently launched her website last month. Her highlight to date includes a huge wedding she did at Palm Beach.
“It was a huge success and the bride was so happy she called the next day to thank me!” When asked about her favourite aspect of the course, Christine says “having an escape from the corporate world and learning something that would lead to my own business”.
Visit Christine’s website – www.catherinegeorgeflowers.com.au
Holly Ferguson - PCDC Graduate
With a passion for flowers, Holly decided to enrol in Pearsons School of Floristry from a background in customer service and hospitality.
"I would always make my way into a florist each day, even just to look at the flowers or buy just one flower."
Holly chose to study at Pearsons and achieve her goal to become a florist. "The intimate college atmosphere, the website and kind of information supplied. They were always so encouraging!" says Holly.
Currently, Holly works as a casual with Pearsons Florist at their Bondi Junction and Oxford St store in Darlinghurst.
Holly's floristry career highlight to date includes her major display and making a floral tribute to her late grandmother.
Peggie Walsh - PCDC Graduate
With a business degree and a diploma in graphic design, Peggie decided to enrol in a floristry course after being asked by her sister to help open a florist shop.
"I needed to get up to speed very quickly and the Pearsons course was ideal as it took only 1 year to complete and I could work as I studied." says Peggie.
Since graduating, Peggie has started her own business in Sydney called Vixen Blooms Pty Ltd. "Working from home and being my own boss is great but I am working harder than I ever have in my life. It's all worth it though when a bride calls and tells you her wedding day was perfect because of the job you did." Peggie says.
Peggie pictured below with her end of year display for the Commercial Design course.
Vixen Blooms Pty Ltd - vixenblooms@gmail.com
Caroline Williams - PCDC Graduate
“I'm from the UK and was working in agriculture when my husband's job meant a move to Australia. As I was starting off in a new country, it was the perfect time to make a career change so I joined Pearsons School of Floristry.”
“My training at PSF was brilliant. It was very thorough and I learnt some fantastic skills especially in customer service. I enjoyed our excursions to the flower growers, and all the trainers were great.”
“I’m given the opportunity to really take control and be responsible for the job, from the design aspects to ordering the flowers. My boss Martin oversees everything but he really trusts me to get the job done. He knows it is all about learning on the job and experiencing the event. He even understands when things go wrong, so its the perfect place to grow!”
Caroline (pictured above with colleague and fellow PSF graduate Jason) works at the beautiful Potteround Florist in Rozelle: www.potteround.com.au
Donella Corbett - PCDC Graduate
“Pearsons Commercial Design Certificate gave me the confidence to walk into a store and ask for work. I don’t know if I would have done it otherwise.”
Donella started working for fellow PCDC graduate Ferdinando, owner of the beautiful Garlands florist, on Sundays while still completing her studies.
It’s a far cry from her old job in the marketing department of Caltex. “Every day is exciting, there is always something beautiful to do whether it be events or creating for customers,” says Donella.
Donella was responsible for buying flowers on Mondays. "This was a huge thing because its the day we do most of our corporate arrangements. I’m learning to work with what I can get, being resourceful.”
“It’s hard to think of something I don’t like about floristry apart from always having dirty nails, and I was quite surprised that its such a physical job.”
“While I was studying, I loved learning about the flowers and being exposed to the flower markets and our excursions through the PSF enrichment program."
"And it was great that PSF connected me with the industry. I thought that the school was always really fair. Even though they have an affiliation with Pearsons stores, we were really encouraged to go out and work in the industry, regardless of where it is, and the school supports you, even when you have completed the course.”
“I also loved the socialising. I met some good friends through the school, and it was beautiful sharing my passion with like-minded people."
"I enjoyed the creative freedom in the final assessment, that was really challenging, and great to put my training to the test.”
Since this interview, Donella has decided to pursue her own floristry career and has launched The Naked Flower - www.thenakedflower.com.au
See Donella's previous workplace www.garlands.net.au
Liz Willer - PCDC Graduate
After starting as an account manager in an advertising agency, Liz took her first steps to a career change at Pearsons School of Floristry.
“The Certificate III course came highly recommended and it was flexible enough for me to complete while I was still working in an unrelated industry.”
“My favourite thing about floristry is the freedom of creativity and design and being able to work with such beautiful products”.
Since graduating, Liz has been promoted to be the manager of the Pearsons Florist MET Centre store. She considers this - and making her own wedding flowers - to be her career highlight to date.
Laani Pegler - PCDC Graduate
"The course has helped me to see that I can do anything if I set my mind to it," says Laani, PCDC graduate and florist at the gorgeous PoHo in Potts Point.
"I loved learning at PSF and soaked up all the knowledge and experience I could from the trainers. Everything was so new and exciting to me - learning about the flowers, the different types of arrangements and being creative was my favourite part."
Laani came to floristry from the travel/airline industry. "Changing career can be hard work, but its worth it. If you continue to work full time in your old career while doing the course, you need to be organised and realistic, and know that there are assignments to do outside the classroom. Anyone can do it if they set their mind to it!"
"I was fortunate enough to land a postition in the most beautiful shop half way through the course, on a part time basis, and I'm full time now."
"It sounds corny, but my favourite thing about floristry is being able to step back from a beautiful arrangement I've created and think about the joy it will bring to the customer."
"The course has given me the confidence and skills required to work in the floristry industry. Now I can go on to gain more experience. I plan to keep learning, to challenge myself."
Laani works at PoHo in Potts Point.
Lisa Mattock – PCDC Graduate
Lisa’s goal when she enrolled at Pearsons School of Floristry was to own her own store. Now, two years later, she is the proud owner and artistic director of the beautiful Dragonfly Floral Design in Bondi Junction.
“I was working 6 days a week as a nanny and I was ready for a creative career change,” says Lisa.
“Before I started at PSF, I didn’t know a thing about floristry, and I wouldn’t have the skills or confidence to be here today if I hadn’t done the course. I still refer back to my notes!”
“Learning as an adult can be intimidating, but I was enthusiastic and asked as many questions as I could; the trainers have such a wealth of knowledge.”
Now that she is a florist, Lisa enjoys watching the seasons change, “It’s beautiful and I love the creative challenges that come with using different flowers.”
But owning your own floristry business is hard work, “I still work 6 days a week – plus book work on the seventh day - but the best thing about my career as a florist so far has been watching my own style develop and evolve. Its’ great to be open and try new designs.”
“My goal for the future is to keep learning. Staying in touch with PSF through enrichment events, and my fellow classmates who are in the floristry industry, helps me to network, stay connected and build my industry knowledge.”
Check out Lisa’s website: www.dragonflyfloraldesign.com.au
Alicia Vasiliev-Michielsen – PCDC Graduate
Its hard to imagine a more dramatic career change than Alicia’s! From head teacher of special education at Granville Boys High School, to PCDC graduate and winner of Pearsons Student of the Year award, Alicia is now living and working as a florist in Vanuatu.
“I did a short recreational course and loved it so I went on to do the Commercial Design Certificate,” says Alicia.
“I loved coming into the classroom and learning something totally different. The trainers were great and made you think outside the square and believe anything is possible after learning the basics.”
Since graduating, Alicia has furthered her floristry knowledge by working under the guidance of her mentor Annie Tehei, a well known and gifted florist from Victoria, who has lived in Vanuatu for the past 20 years.
“I am currently managing the floral division of an events company here in Vanuatu. We are extremely busy, averaging out at 3-4 weddings every day six days a week, plus resort work, corporate work and other arrangements.”
So, what is Alicia’s advice to those considering a career change? “Its difficult leaving your comfort zone but I have learnt that if you put the hard work in there are definitely rewards that come your way. I don’t regret it!”
“Pearsons Commercial Design Certificate is a great course and I enjoyed every minute of it. I would advise anyone considering the course to definitely do it!”
Alicia is pictured above, with some of her beautiful tropical wedding work. To see more visit www.eventsvanuatu.com
Candice Thomas - PCDC Student
Candice is a student at Pearsons School of Floristry who also works as a florist at Pearsons Sydney stores.
Click here to watch a video of Candice talking about her floristry work and studies.
Click here to read an interview with Candice on NineMSN's Your Life Works.
Taken from an interview with Candice, now showing on SkillsOne TV (Foxtel Channel 183)...
"Finally Candice Thomas has a smile on her face! From hospitality to childcare to health science our talent has had almost every job under the sun… But, gee was she miserable until she found floristry! Before working with flowers, she found all her other jobs boring and hated the office environment. Initially unsure about pursuing floristry as it was a massive career change, motivation from her husband was enough to drive her, and she has not looked back!
We meet with Candice in the classroom at Pearsons where she is learning her skills, and we have a chat with her about the course and the direction she is heading. She also shows us how to make a bouquet!"
Click here to watch Candice talk about her floristry work and study.
Click here to read an interview with Candice on NineMSN's Your Life Works.
Annie Yeo - PCDC Graduate
Annie left her marketing job to explore her creative side and graduated from Pearsons School of Floristry in 2003.
“Changing careers is hard work, but if you are passionate about your new career it will be the greatest decision you ever made.”
“PSF gave me the foundation to start my career in the industry,” says Annie, who has now owned her floristry business Flower Avenue for 5 years.
Annie's favourite part of being a florist is working on weddings and special events and her goal now is to do more extraordinarly events and functions that provide a challenge.
Check out Annie's website at www.floweravenue.com.au
Candace Harris - PCDC Student & Trainee Florist
Candace was just 18 and fresh from Year 12 at St Patrick’s College in Campbelltown when she started her floristry traineeship in February 2008.
She is employed by Pearsons Florist, working 4 days per week in their Sydney stores and design centre, and studying at PSF one day per week.
“I love gardening, painting and sculpture so floristry is the ideal career for me,” says Candace.
“The traineeship scheme makes the course financially accessible because I get help to pay for the course, and I’m earning while I study and working 4 days a week for Pearsons Florist.”
"My advice for anyone considering a career in floristry is to do your research; it is hard work being on your feet all day, but very rewarding."
"For students, I think its really important to stay on top of your study and keep adding to your portfolio of floral designs - have your camera handy at all times!"
"My average day is very varied and includes making orders, customer service, shop maintenaince and walking deliveries in the City. The best thing is when a customer loves something that I've created."
"It's great when I look back on the past 6 months and realise how far I have come. Because I'm working every day as well as studying, I'm getting a lot of practice so I'm becoming faster and more confident in my floristry all the time."
Candace hopes to own her own floristry business in the future.
Current Students - PCDC
As part of Pearsons School of Floristry's unique Enrichment Program, our commercial floristry students are invited to participate in work experience, to gain an insight into industry.
In 2008, students worked on two major charity fundraising events. module 1 & 2 students (pictured below) made table
decorations from fruit and vegetables for the Spastic Centre’s
pink-themed charity race day luncheon at Rosehill.
“Thanks for the great opportunity of being able to assist on a large
scale function from start to finish. I had a great time working beside two professionals and getting a better feel of how a large function would be set up,” said student Melissa Ngan.
Meanwhile in August, module 3 & 4 students created table centre arrangements for the Arrow Foundation’s fundraising ball.
“It was really nice to watch the florists at Pearsons design centre in Stanmore working and I enjoyed learning how to do larger scale work than I have done in class,” said module 3 student Sharon Smith.
In addition to large scale event work experience, flower shop work experience is available for all PCDC module 3 & 4 students at Pearsons Darlinghurst store.
Want to see what its like inside the classroom at Pearsons School of Floristry? Check out the link below to see a class with trainer Debra Dwyer.
YouTube video: Inside the classroom at Pearsons School of Floristry
For more information on Pearsons Commercial Design Certificate, click here.
Maria and Zoe Macarounas - PCDC Graduates
When Zoe Macarounas enrolled at Pearsons School of Floristry (PSF) in 2004 she could not have imagined that it would be the start of a new career for her mum Maria too!
After graduating from PSF with Certificate III in Floristry, Zoe began working for her local florist while also building her own business, Flowers by Zoe, from home. She soon needed an assistant, so mum Maria - a former high school English teacher - enrolled on the course.
"I never thought I had any creative flair, but now I have the practical skills to be a good florist," says Maria, who helps Zoe with her business and also works as a freelance florist at flower shops around Sydney.
Zoe has regular corporate clients, and she especially enjoys wedding work. "Wedding flowers are such an important part of the day. I always make sure my customers are happy and I get such lovely feedback."
Maria’s advice to budding florists? "Be prepared for early mornings at the flower markets and long hours, but it is rewarding when your creations put a smile on people’s faces."
Check out Zoe’s website at www.flowersbyzoe.com.au
Emma Fernandez - PCDC Graduate
There are many career options within the floristry industry, from working in a retail store, to becoming an event specialist, or running your own business.
“When I began my studies, I had no idea where floristry would take me,” says PSF graduate and mother-of-one Emma Fernandez.
In addition to her busy role as PSF's student support & administration officer, Emma now teaches our Commercial & Recreational floristry courses, works part-time for a busy Eastern Suburbs florist, and freelances as a wedding florist!
“I love the flexibility and variety of the floristry industry,” says Emma.
Berni Oakfield - PCDC Graduate
Berni has always been involved with flowers. Her uncle owned a florist in the UK where she is originally from, and she knew from a young age that it was her passion.
“I came across a Pearsons store in the city and chatted with a staff member who was studying at Pearsons School of Floristry,” says Berni. “I wasn’t interested in spending two years at TAFE, so I loved the idea of fast-tracking the course to one year.”
Since graduating in 2006, Berni is thrilled to have found a career she is passionate about, working for event design company Designs by Booshi. “I love the challenge of creating and I approach every event with passion.”
“Not long ago I worked on a fantastic wedding at the Opera House. I had to organise my team and we worked frantically under pressure to create the bride’s dream. It was a huge success and the bride said our designs were the best part of her wedding.”
Berni is soon to start specialising in weddings at Booshi. “It’s a fantastic opportunity as I love doing weddings. My new role will involve more frequent visits to the market, to keep up to date with what’s available. You never stop learning in this industry and its important to stay in touch with all aspects of the design world.”
Berni recommends floristry to anyone with a passion for flowers and an interest in design. Her word of advice: “Remember to use your projects from class as an opportunity to create tools that you can use in your future career. Floristry will become your life.”
Alice Morgan - PCDC Graduate
“My favourite thing about floristry is being creative and working with beautiful materials,” says Alice, senior florist and manager of the busy Pearsons MLC Centre store in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.
Alice - a former disability support worker - graduated from Pearsons School of Floristry three years ago and hasn’t looked back. “Anyone can change their career. My advice is to just take that first step; you don’t need to study for long before you make the move.”
“As well as arranging flowers and serving customers, my average day includes unpacking and conditioning flowers, organising the store, ordering flowers and banking. Its hard work, but its all worth it when you happy and loyal customers.”
Pip Russell - PCDC Graduate
“I’m a creative person and have a love of arts. I needed a creative career and the idea of making a difference in people’s lives inspired me to study floristry.”
Pip completed her studies at PSF in 2003, then gained work experience and was employed by Flora International. For the last 3 years, she has owned her own business, Live the Day Florist in Camden.
“My average day involves going to the markets, talking to new brides - I see an average of 8 brides a week, my business in bridal is huge - preparing quotes, lots of cleaning, arrangements and general floristry.”
“My favourite thing about floristry is creating something that looks beautiful and will bring joy to someone. I love it when a bride comes back to say thank you - and they do!”
“I loved learning. My favourite part of the course was learning how to do something I wanted to learn and that I was passionate about.”
“Highlights of my floristry career include winning a local business award, having a good reputation, and owning a successful business.”
“I wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t of completed the course. PSF has changed my life. It was a simple idea in the beginning and now I have all of this!”
“My advice to PSF students is to get out there and do work experience. You need to practice, practice, practice so that you have confidence in the work place and you really know what you are doing.”
Visit Pip's website – www.livetheday.com.au
Chris Thompson - PCDC Graduate
Green-fingered Chris was a gardener who was looking for a career that would offer longevity.
"Pearsons School of Floristry gave me the skills to start working in the industry, and now my goal is to own my own shop eventually," says Chris.
After graduating, Chris worked at the busy Pearsons Florist design centre at Stanmore.
His advise to those considering starting their floristry career: "Just enrol and go for it!"
To hear more about his experiences as a florist, and to see Chris at work, click here.
Ferdinando De Freitas - PCDC Graduate
Former monorail driver, graduate of PCDC and now owner of Garlands florist!
Garlands has built a strong and loyal following from corporate and event management companies and regularly works with major hotels on their event and wedding requirements.
Ferdinando has been invited to work on numerous ‘A’ list Sydney social events, and has been involved in many celebrity weddings across Australia.
Check out Ferdinando's website here.
Abeer Kamaz - PCDC Graduate
Abeer works part-time as a Training Co-ordinator and since 2005 has also run Mazzika - her own events and gifts business.
"I am actually very lucky to work part time in one place and have an opportunity to try a new career at the same time," says Abeer.
"Since graduating I have expanded my skills and now offer flowers for weddings, daily flowers, birthday and Valentines day flowers."
"Being able to do flowers for my customers myself has saved me a lot of money and made my business more profitable."
Karen Pettit - PCDC Graduate
Karen was a marketing manager who had always loved flowers and joined Pearsons School of Floristry to start her new career as a florist.
"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at PSF. The tutors were great and the lessons fun and informative."
"The course gave me the tools necessary to become a good florist. I’ve just completed my first wedding and plan to start a design studio with a couple of employees to help out."
Amanda Kopelke - PCDC Graduate
After 15 years in IT, Amanda was desperate to try something new so she enrolled in a Saturday PCDC class to ‘test the water’ and kept her full time job.
"Since graduating I’ve combined my passions for floristry and photography and developed a business from home."
"I have an online store selling my images on everything from greeting cards to canvasses. Its ideal for me as I can fit work in around my family."
See Amanda’s beautiful photography at www.amandakopelke.com
Nima Devi - PCDC Graduate
Nima studied business management at university and began a career in finance, but it just wasn't for her. "I hated my desk job and wanted a creative career I could enjoy. One day I woke up and knew that floristry was the answer, so I enrolled at PSF."
While studying, Nima soon found work as a junior florist for a large Sydney company, specialising in wedding and event work. Her advise to students is to get work in the industry as soon as possible. "You need to keep practising a backing up what you learn in the classroom with real-life experience to accelerate your learning."
Now she is managing a shop in Parramatta while the owner takes maternity leave. "I'm building my experience and learning how to run a shop. In the future I'd like to combine my business degree and floristry skills, maybe specialising in events."
Nima found the support of her fellow students was invaluable during the course. "Our weekly visits to the coffee shop after class were a ritual. I made awesome friendships."
"PSF gave me the skills I needed to get a new career and I'm definately happier now. I love seeing people's faces when they receive flowers; moments like that make me want to get up and go to work every morning."
Claudia Musumeci - PCDC Graduate
Former photographer and book-keeper, PSF graduate Claudia Musumeci continues to excel in her business since graduating in 2007!
"I have gained the confidence and to take on what's thrown at me. I do markets, everyday shop procedures, weddings, funerals, corporate... all occassions, all the book keeping and accounting."
"One of the other students from my my class is currently working for me. It's been three years that I've had the shop now - it's growing every day and I'm very happy!"
Claudia's business, Leppington Flower Market, recently won two awards in one week, taking out Sydney Markets Florist of the Month and winning a Small Local Business Award. Keep up the good work!
Philippa Montier and Fiona Ladogna - PCDC Graduates
Graduates Philippa Montier (a former chartered accountant) and Fiona Ladogna are now proud owners of Epping Floral Centre.
"We just wanted to let you know that Epping Floral Centre won Best Florist in the Northern District Business Awards - again!"
"Thank you to Pearsons for the great training."
Share your story!
Are you a current PSF student or graduate who would like to share your story or add your business website to our links page? Email school@pearsonsflorist.com.au
Media contact: PSF has a treasure trove of stories about students from all walks of life. Media enquiries: marketing@pearsonsflorist.com.au