Your Quick Guide to Building a Team of Floral Freelancers
Haley Photography
After pulling a few all-nighters, I was finding the joy and passion I had for floral design was fading quicker than a flower out of water. My dream weddings had finally started rolling in, and I soon realized I needed help—and quick!
As a one-gal show, it works best for me to hire help on a freelance basis for my larger events. Most of my freelance designers have their own flower business but are willing to help if I book them early or they happen to be available. For others, flowers are their part-time gig, and they're happy for the experience and want to help whenever they can.
If you’re in the same boat as me and you need an extra pair of hands (or two—or three!) for larger projects, there are a couple things to keep in mind.
Where To Find Freelancers
I was eager to meet others from my community in the wedding industry when I first stepped into the floral world. I'd sometimes pop into their shop with a small flower arrangement and introduce myself. Other times I'd email a local designer whose work I admired, introduce myself, and offer my assistance.
If I'm honest, this method had mixed results. Some didn't grasp the "together we're stronger" or the "community over competition" concept. One florist even offered me full-time employment but said she didn't want to work with me on a freelance basis as she felt I was her competition! But the ones who welcomed the offer of help and were willing to help me in return have become forever flower friends, lending a hand whenever it’s needed.
Haley Photography
I've also met some fantastic talent at floral design workshops and conferences. Attending these events not only expands my skill set, but it's provided an opportunity for me to see the work of other designers as well as determine their style and experience.
I discovered that several reps at my wholesalers had either worked for other floral designers or aspired to become one themselves. Many have welcomed my invitation to freelance, and their in-depth flower knowledge is a bonus.
You can often find help through local Facebook floral groups as well as our own Team Flower's Members Directory.
Other Help
In addition to hiring floral designers, I strongly recommend you retain "heavy lifters." These are strong guys and gals that handle all the unloading, setting up designer workstations, coffee and food runs, tear-downs and clean-up. Having them will leave designers free to focus on executing floral installations and making everything look beautiful.
Tips for Being a Good Boss
Now that you've found an amazing team, it's essential to keep them happy and wanting to freelance for you again. First and foremost, this means paying them at a decent rate. Decide beforehand if they're to be paid by the hour or a daily rate and let them know when and how they'll be paid. (I prefer to e-transfer their funds later that same day or by the following Monday at the latest.) Pay your freelancers well as their talent and experience command, and they'll be happy to help you next time.
Haley Photography
Also, thank them personally and often. On design and event days, make sure there's always plenty of water and snacks on hand, especially on hot summer days. If you're working a full day, it's helpful to supply lunch. If you keep everyone fed and hydrated, they'll appreciate it, and you'll get their best work. Don't forget to have sunscreen and bug spray on hand if you're working outdoors.
Be organized! A week before the event I send out an email to each designer that includes the following: a list of installations, a copy of the bride's mood board, venue location(s) and address(es), my cell number, a list of items to bring such as clippers and apron, the dress code, timelines, and what items or tasks they'll be responsible for. This helps ensure everyone knows what to expect and where and when to be before the big day. It also allows time for questions, clarification, switching up tasks, and how I can better support them if needed. On the day of the event, each designer is supplied with a clipboard outlining the order of tasks and installations they're responsible for accompanied by any specific instructions, a photo of how the final installation should look, and the time to have it completed by. Just as prepping flowers beforehand makes the design process run smoothly, being organized and having clear and concise instructions ensures your designers feel supported and ready to jump in on arrival.
One final word of advice. Initially, it's hard to know how many extra designers you'll need. More is better—trust me on this. Even if it costs you a little extra, the peace of mind is worth it. Next time you'll have a better idea of the number of designers you'll need. You'll be less stressed knowing everything's well in hand, and your freelancers will be happy working in a stress-free environment.
When it comes to hiring freelance help, it's always important to remember: treat them as you'd like to be treated, and all will run smoothly.
