When florists combine their affinity for flowers with their expertise for arranging them, magic happens. Inspired floral creations have the power to break silences, provide comfort and commemorate triumphs. Those willing to accept the challenges of floral design enter a rewarding, but competitive industry. Succeeding as a florist involves keeping customers satisfied and surpassing the ingenuity of your competitors.
1.
Create a pleasant atmosphere. Customers shouldn’t feel frustrated when they peruse your shop. Upbeat music, bright lights and attractive displays are inviting and also speak to your attention to detail. Greet customers with a positive attitude and thoughtful advice — even if the line of customers is out the door. This gives customers confidence in your ability to handle their orders with professionalism.
2.
Assemble creative bouquets. Fresh flowers deserve fresh ideas. Failing to provide innovative offerings can make your shop appear outdated. Mix up conventional arrangements by adding trendy details such as beaded bows, handcrafted vases and recycled name tags. Sprinkle in flowers with interesting colors and scents. Introduce vibrant color combinations and flower matchups. This reassures customers that their money is being well spent.
3.
Keep your promises — even when it’s more convenient to break them. Negative word-of-mouth can be a business killer. Broken promises can ruin special occasions and weaken your reputation. Credibility is essential to stay profitable, as “fast food” flowers are readily available for purchase. Always have a backup plan in case of delayed shipments. If you must break a promise, do it as soon as possible and provide generous consolation.
4.
Stay organized. Floral shops can become chaotic as you balance fulfilling customer wishes with caring for flowers. Failing to keep clutter under control can easily lead to erroneous orders, malnourished inventory and frustrated customers. Take clear notes, paying particular attention to name spellings and pickup times. Use a filing system to prioritize orders and keep important documents secure. Tidy up preparation areas throughout the day.
5.
Offer more than flowers. Think gift baskets, seasonal wreaths and homemade candies. Marketing your store as a “year-round gift oasis” will increase your revenue potential. This could prove beneficial during slow times. Consider partnering with local crafters for an instant inventory boost.
