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50 December | 2023 50 Business Education is a great pathway to advance in any career, and it is important for personal enrichment and creative expression. In the fl oral industry, for example, to be successful, a fl oral designer must be knowledgeable about elements and principles of design, the science of cut fl owers and plants, the latest ideas and trends and so much more. "Knowledge is power" is a famous quote attributed to Sir Francis Bacon, an English philosopher, statesman, lawyer and scientist during the Renaissance period. e phrase emphasizes that having knowledge and information is a source of empowerment and can lead to greater control and success in every aspect of life. So, have you ever wondered what all those letters following people's surnames mean and stand for? ose post-nominal letters—a.k.a. post- nominal initials, post-nominal titles and designatory letters—indicate accreditations, certifi cations, designations, honors, educational degree achievement or membership from (and/or in) various organizations. In the fl oral industry, there are many post-nominals that enable professional fl oral designers and businesspeople to communicate their education, accomplishments and expertise to their customers and peers. Accreditations and certifi cations can be obtained through national and international fl orist organizations like the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) or the Society of American Florists (SAF), and many state and regional fl orist associations also off er certifi cation programs and education, as well. Although achieving accreditations and certifi cations is voluntary, it indicates a measure of fl oral design skill and ability and/or business knowledge and expertise gained through education, training and/or work experience, and it symbolizes one's commitment to ongoing learning, improvement and elevating levels of professionalism throughout the industry. is is important because—unlike in many European and other countries—there are no apprenticeship, licensure or certifi cation requirements to become a fl orist in 49 of the 50 United States (Louisiana is the exception). Whatever path one chooses, education in fl oral design and the business of fl oristry is important for several reasons. Becoming accredited or certifi ed in these segments of the industry off ers a range of benefi ts, both for one's professional development and for one's potential clients and/or future employers. For fl oral designers, formal education and training helps individuals acquire the professional skills and knowledge necessary for working with fl owers and plants, including techniques for arranging fl owers, and understanding the care and maintenance of various types of fl owers and plants. Learning about the art of fl oral design can help individuals develop their artistic skills, enabling them to create beautiful, unique and professionally crafted compositions. The Value of FLORAL ACCREDITATION AND CERTIFICATION A LOOK AT THE BENEFITS OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS OFFERED BY INTERNATIONAL, NATIONAL, REGIONAL AND STATE FLORIST ASSOCIATIONS AND ORGANIZATIONS. By Nita Robertson, AIFD, CFD

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