Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Floral Design School in Portland, OR
Founded in 1969 and purchased by Leanne Kesler AIFD and David Kesler AIFD in 1988, the Floral Design Institute has grown into one of the leading accredited floral design schools globally. With over 40 years of combined experience, our founders established a learning environment where both beginners and advanced designers develop skills to their fullest potential. Licensed by the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission, we offer rigorous training programs that mirror professional floral industry standards. Our instructors are seasoned educators and designers who bring real-world expertise to every class. As a member of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) Educational Partners, we provide an approved pathway to AIFD certification.Our curriculum emphasizes hands-on practice, with 75% of class time dedicated to student projects using fresh flowers and professional tools. We maintain a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio to ensure personalized instruction. Our graduates earn recognized certifications and professional designations, including the exclusive FDI Certified pin. We offer flexible learning options, including in-person classes at our Portland, Oregon facility and comprehensive online programs. Our commitment to excellence extends to housing assistance, industry partnerships, and ongoing support for floral professionals worldwide.
Services
Floral Design Classes
Certification Programs
Online Courses
Wedding Workshops
Floral Supplies
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- Over 40 years of combined experience from founders Leanne and David Kesler
- Maintain a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio for personalized instruction
- Approved Educational Pathway to AIFD Certification and Accreditation
- 75% hands-on practice with fresh flowers and professional tools
- Flexible learning options: in-person classes and online programs
Associations and certifications
- Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission
- American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) Educational Partners
What people say
Transformative experience
Expert instructors
Hands-on training
Career preparation
Flexible options
Services
Basic Floral Design Certification
Our foundational program teaches essential floral design techniques through 25% lecture and 75% hands-on practice. Students work with fresh flowers and professional tools to master arrangements for various occasions. The curriculum prepares graduates for entry-level positions or entrepreneurial ventures in the floral industry.
Advanced Floral Design Certification
This program builds on foundational skills with complex techniques for large-scale designs and specialty events. Students refine their artistic vision while learning business strategies for professional success. Graduates earn advanced credentials recognized throughout the floral design industry.
Online Floral Classes
Self-paced online courses deliver the same comprehensive training as in-person programs. Students access video demonstrations and receive instructor feedback while working with materials at home. This flexible option maintains the same certification standards as our Portland-based classes.
Wedding Floral Workshops
Specialized training focuses on creating bridal bouquets, ceremony installations, and reception decor. Students learn time-sensitive design techniques and client management skills for wedding-specific floral work. The program includes both traditional and contemporary styling approaches.
Floral Design Supplies
We provide professional-grade floral materials including foams, wires, tools, and containers. Our curated supply selection matches the exact products used in our training programs. Students and professionals access both standard and specialty items for floral design projects.
People
Leanne Kesler
Education Director and Co-Owner
With over 40 years of experience, Leanne Kesler co-owns and directs educational programs at Floral Design Institute. A recognized floral design expert and AIFD member, she shapes curriculum and instruction methods that combine traditional techniques with modern innovations for students worldwide.
David Kesler
Co-Owner
David Kesler brings 40+ years of floral industry expertise to his role as co-owner. As an active designer and educator, he contributes to program development while maintaining industry connections that enhance student opportunities through his AIFD membership and professional network.
Questions
What certification options do you offer?
We offer Basic and Advanced Floral Design Certifications, Wedding Floral Specialist programs, and specialized workshops both in-person and online.
Are your online courses as comprehensive as in-person classes?
Yes - our online programs use the same curriculum and provide equivalent certification as our Portland-based classes with instructor support.
Is the institute accredited?
We're licensed by Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission and an AIFD-approved pathway for floral design certification.
What makes your programs unique?
Our 12:1 student-teacher ratio, 75% hands-on training, and industry-recognized certifications distinguish our comprehensive floral education approach.
Do you offer financing options?
While we don't provide direct financing, our programs include payment plans and we can assist with third-party funding resources.
Videos
