Houston School of Floral Design Under New Ownership
Courses begin Monday, June 2

April 28, 2008 —The Houston School of Floral Design is now under new ownership. Houston businessman, Jim Lerdal, has purchased the 28-year-old institution from founder and renowned Texas Master Florist Pat Hermes. The change in ownership was made official April 25, 2008.

Lerdal’s purchase ushers in a new era for the school, founded in 1980 by Hermes, who will remain the school’s principal instructor and director. It is the only proprietary school for floral design approved by the state of Texas.  

“I absolutely loved the vision that Jim presented for the school. Our partnership will result in the Houston School of Floral Design becoming an even greater resource to floral professionals,” Hermes said. “With Jim’s arrival I will be able to focus on what I love most, teaching high-quality design to future florists.”

While Hermes directs the school’s curriculum, Lerdal will oversee the business and marketing responsibilities. His 20 years of experience in corporate America, including several years as the president and chief operating officer of a major financial corporation have equipped him with the skills to grow and manage organizations. Lerdal holds a undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota, a graduate degree from Southern Methodist University and has taken executive education courses at Harvard University.
“Pat is a renowned expert in floral design and has done a tremendous job with the school for 28 years,” Lerdal said. “I am excited about building on her legacy.”

Courses includes an Arrangement Course that teaches the fundamental principles and mechanics of floral design, a Wedding Course teaching techniques specific to weddings and receptions, and a Shop Management & Sympathy Course that provides students with the skills necessary to manage a flower shop and design arrangements for funerals and memorial services.  

In addition the school offers courses for those who just love flowers and are interested in leisure design. A certificate is awarded upon completion of each course.

“All of these courses are important to us,” Lerdal said. “It was important that we cater to students of every level and interest..”

And if the expanded curriculum weren’t enough, Lerdal hopes to rejuvenate the collaborative work Hermes once did with international designers in the 1980s and 90s. In the school’s early years, Hermes brought in top name European designers for programs and co-sponsored international floral tours.

Together, Hermes and Lerdal also plan to institute a scholarship program for area high school seniors interested in pursuing floral design as a career.

Courses will be offered beginning Monday, June 2.
For more information on the change in ownership or on courses offered at the school visit www.floristschool.com or call 713-977-4364/1-800-468-4552.