International School of Floral Design, Chicago

Like most professional floral designers, Rochell Louise was always swamped with requests during wedding season and completely bored during the off season. So she decided to launch a corporate floral design and residential department at her shop, and business soon exploded. However, despite her best efforts, her business was losing money after a few years because, as she puts it, she was underselling her work and mismanaging certain parts of her business. She started over completely, taking business courses and learning where she went wrong. Louise knew she wanted to help other florists learn from her mistakes and her newfound business skills, so she opened International School of Floral Design.

Now, the school has locations throughout the United States, as well a location in Mexico and one in Paris. Students at each outpost or online learn the fundamentals of floral design, how to start their own business, and tips on styling luxury events. The school also has classes for hobbyists who want to learn the tricks of the pros.