Guide to Starting a Florist Business

New Business Strategy Plan

ResearchConsider if market is already covered

in your area.Scope out your competition.

Research and educate yourself about the floral industry (books, online,

yellow pages).What are the startup costs?

ResearchWhat will your monthly expenses

be?Will you have employees?

How long will it take for the business to return your investment

capital?Talk with local florists.

Determine Where Your Customers Are

Locally: In store sale.Nationally: on-line [will need to create website].Talk with local funeral homes, churches, wedding planners, reception centers, wedding photographers and wedding stores to find out where their customers make their flower purchases. Be sure to tell them you are thinking about starting a florist business. You’ll be surprised at all the do’s and don’ts.

Legal and Insurance Considerations

Consult an attorney.Incorporate your business name.

Buy insurance.Register business with County

Clerk.Obtain permits and occupational

licenses.

MaintenanceWho will handle the accounting/

bookkeeping?Who will maintain the website?

Who will run the business if you’re ill?

What Will It Take To Outfit The Shop

Refrigeration / equipment.Counters / displays.

Register [including merchant credit card processing].

Bookkeeping software.Money? Loan?

Computer.Signage.

Flower SuppliersContact floral wholesalers and

open accounts with them.Check out local nurseries.

Visit greenhouses.Farmer’s markets.

Develop a Marketing Plan and Promote Your ServicesAdvertise in community magazines, newspapers, flyers, church newsletters, local telephone books.Develop a brochure listing your services.Become VISIBLE in the community:– Donate flowers, i.e. churches.– Network with local businesses/charities.– Leave business cards.

Speak to other florists.Advertise on-line with banner sharing.Understand your client’s needs. Be flexible. Be able to change with the times.Establish good relations with your customers.

Other ConsiderationsWhat kind of flowers are you selling?– Quality.

Prepare price list.

Consider delivery options:– How will you

ship the flowers?

TipsDevelop aggressive marketing strategies during holidays: – Valentines.– Mother’s Day.

Consider delivery options:– How will you

ship the flowers?Budget: Have a cash reserve during slow business seasons!