Running a floral business out of your home
Have you dreamt of starting an in-home floral business? It’s easier than you think!
Starting an in-home floral business (or any business for that matter) can seem daunting. But it doesn't have to be. There are so many reasons why being an in-home florist is beneficial and possibly the best way to go. Recently I was discussing my in-home business with a local wholesale warehouse owner, and he too agreed that, especially in this climate with soaring prices, handling business at home is where it's at! From marketing yourself to tax preparation, read on to find some tips and tricks for running a successful home floral business.
Start up social media accounts for your business
The very first and easiest thing to do is to start an Instagram and Facebook business page. Bonus points because they're free! Build out your profile, and add your best and most recent work. Familiarize yourself with the way each platform works if you don't already know. Adding reels with recent trending audio files can help reach a wider audience. Don't be afraid to use filters that can help soften the lighting and background surrounding your designs and help your work stand out.
Follow florists, wholesalers, and local growers
Following florists can help ignite your creativity. It can also help you visualize the work that's out there and trending. One thing NOT to do: don't compare yourself to other designers. I know it can be hard, but all designs are unique, so ensure you're following florists who inspire you. Some big floral designers have warehouse sales that they'll announce on social media. This can be a great opportunity to purchase a variety of used containers for great prices. Many florists and floral designers also post when they're looking for freelance designers, which is another great opportunity.
Subscribe to floral magazines
There are a lot of great tips, tricks, and inspiration to be had. They are also a great resource for what trends are up and coming or what florists you may want to follow on social media. Most magazines have other resources in them life wholesalers you may wish to purchase from, contests you may want to enter, and a calendar of up-and-coming floral symposiums, shows, and courses.
Practice, practice, practice
You should always practice, even if you just grab some flowers during your grocery market run or forage some flowers and greens from your yard. Are you a pro at making bouquets but not so great at container arrangements? Take your bouquet apart and make that container arrangement, then take it apart again and make something else. The most talented musicians still have to practice.
Don’t just post your photos online, engage with other professionals as well.
Take photos of your designs and post them
Most cell phones have great cameras, making it easy for those who aren't photographers. Check out the Team Flower "How to Photography Flowers" Class to learn how to make a great floral photo to post. If you don't have filters in your camera app on your phone, use the filters that Instagram has set up.
Engage in social media
Makers in a community are always really supportive of one another and genuinely want to see people succeed. Responding to other florists' and makers' posts can help you connect, and it's with those connections that you'll see start to propel your business. Commenting on posts you love and interacting with other people in the industry can lead to wonderful things. Think big: you don't have to limit your connections to other florists! For example, event planners, balloon artists, caterers, photographers, etc.—other vendors who usually work events requiring florists.
Take courses and stay up to date with the current trends
You don't have to change your particular style, but knowing what's out there is helpful. It's always good to keep learning because what's in style one year can be different the next. There are constantly new ways of doing things that can make life so much easier for you.
Obtain a resale license and business license
Having a resale and business license allows you to purchase flowers and other floral hard goods from wholesalers. Having those licenses also helps you stand out as a professional.
Get some advice from a tax professional
There is always plenty of free information on the internet but do some research. As a small business owner, you'll need to keep good records for tax purposes. It never hurts to seek advice from a trusted professional.
Think about investing in dedicated software
Plenty of software companies are dedicated to floral or similar industry bookkeeping, where you can input and catalogue your payments and expenses and create invoices. It's worth the money to invest in something like this upfront, so you aren't struggling to track receipts. Track your mileage as well; driving to and from the flower market and deliveries can add up, and you'll need it come tax time!
Let everyone know you’re open for business!
Market yourself and spread the word that you're open for business
Most businesses have a big blowout when they open. Why should you be any different? Take something small to a local wine and cheese shop, a local gift shop, your local bank branch when you open a business account, your hair stylist, where you get your nails done, etc. Make sure to include your business card and ask if you can leave a stack of extras for them to give if someone comments on the flowers. Do you belong to a neighborhood Facebook group? Ask the page manager if you can post something letting your neighbors know you're an in-home florist. (Bonus: You can include the cost of these flowers in your taxes as marketing and research.)
Buy and use a planner
Being organized makes a huge difference. Many different types of planners can be used. If you are more hands-on and visual, then perhaps invest in a planner that you physically write in. Others do better with an electronic planner or other planning software or app. Find what suits you best and try to make it a daily habit to look at it and write down any new reminder that comes up.
When you run an in-home floral business, you become everything at first: head designer, accountant/bookkeeper, marketing professional, etc. Break things down into manageable pieces.
Regardless, running an in-home floral business can be wildly successful. Education is key! There is no shortage of help online for you—starting right here at Team Flower! Everyone I have ever met in this industry is so willing to help in any capacity. Most importantly, don't forget to make friends and have fun!
