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22 Feature May | 2023 e Dutch style is colorful and mixed. Being one of the foremost countries of fl owers in the world (thanks to the three international auctions), Dutch fl oral designers have access to myriad interesting fl owers type and varieties, which enables them to create fl oral profusion in their work. ey are also quite experimental with surprising shapes and mixtures, which is another factor in creating their unique style. As for French fl oral art, it is rather controversial. Pioneered in the 1900s by working with fl owers only, it took a new turn in the 2000s. e decorative side overtook the vegetal side, largely because the numbers and supply of botanicals was constantly decreasing; however, that, too, is evolving again. Today, the French style incorporates natural elements more and more, and the mixtures of colors are more cleverly dosed than 20 years ago. Another style to discuss is the Scandinavian style. It is a very natural style, which prioritizes quality over quantity. at is, with fi ve or six stems of fl owers, Scandinavian designers are very good at adding volume and bringing out the beauty of the botanicals. It is extremely rewarding to train or work alongside these fl orists who are, ultimately, going back to the basics of the trade. It must be admitted that the opening of borders between European countries has allowed fl oral art to develop and become almost "standardized," even if we are not yet totally there. Time will do things at its own pace. A path full of discoveries and knowledge to be acquired. Training and education are extremely important in Europe. Anyone can be a fl orist, but to be a good fl orist who knows how to combine all the required knowledge requires a lot of training. Training typically takes a minimum of two years and can last as long as six years. Curricula can vary from one country to another because education is not regulated by the European Union. Small diff erences can interfere in the training programs depending on the country, as well, but this does not directly aff ect one's ability to become a good fl orist. Let's take two examples: France and Belgium. In France, the education is divided into fi ve diplomas on four levels. It depends on one's age and ambitions. One can start with a pre-apprenticeship as a fl orist, to become a fl orist assistant. From there, one can pursue the CAP Fleuriste national certifi cation course, which takes two years, to get the title of fl orist. For the next level, a baccalaureate diploma, one can choose between a "Brevet Professionnel" or a "Brevet Technicien des Métiers" (the former provides access to technical training in the trade while the latter is directed toward the management of a retail fl ower business). Finally, there is the "Brevet de Maîtrise" which earns one the title of Master Florist—equivalent to the prestigious title of "Meilleur Ouvrier de France."

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