Starting a Florists – what materials do I need?

Just like any business, you’ll have some overheads when you start trading as a florist. Renting premises is one of them, marketing is another. The third is the essential materials you’ll need to start trading professionally. There are several important commodities you’ll need.

Refrigeration System – You’ll need a good quality refrigeration system for your flowers to ensure they stay in pristine condition until the sale. Models vary by features and price; some are sliding door varieties whilst others allow customers to walk-in and view the flowers at their leisure.
Flowers – Possibly the most important of them all! You’ll need a wide select of flowers of all types and styles to widen your appeal and tap into all possible markets. We’re talking wreaths, bouquets, bunches – a large variety increases your chances of making a sale. Triangle Nursery provides wholesale flowers delivered directly to your shop so consider taking advantage of this service to ensure you always carry in-season varieties.
Plants – Florists are also specialists in selling indoor plants. So you should have a selection of plants so you can broaden your appeal to those who may not specifically be looking for flowers.
Floral Supplies – Flower food, floral foam, scissors, bouquet materials, you’ll need all these to give customers the complete florist package. Many customers won’t know much about flowers so by providing specialist advice you establish yourself as an authority, so they’re more likely to come back for flowers in the future.
Related Products – Books, accessories, novelty vases, pressed flowers, artificial flowers. These are all add-ons you can buy in to increase the appeal of your shop. It’s really a chance to define yourself – you can buy in what you want to become known for.

These really are the essential items; if you’re trying to tap into a particular niche or want to promote specialist services, you’ll need to perform considerable research and invest more money. In the early stages, however, it’s normally best to concentrate on establishing yourself rather than taking on too much.