Mother’s Day is undoubtedly one of the busiest times for florists. It’s a whirlwind of arranging beautiful bouquets, delivering smiles, and spreading love. Once the holiday rush is over, it’s essential for florists to take some well-deserved time to relax, rejuvenate, and pamper themselves. In this blog, we will explore a delightful range of ways for florists to pamper themselves, ensuring they bloom with happiness after the hectic Mother’s Day holiday!

Soak Up Floral Luxury

Florists are surrounded by flowers all day, but have they ever submerged themselves in a fragrant floral bath? Indulge in a luxurious soak with rose petals, lavender, or chamomile to unwind and rejuvenate. Let the delicate aromas and colorful petals whisk you away to a paradise of relaxation.

Green Therapy: Date with Plants

After tirelessly arranging and handling flowers, spend some quality time with potted plants. Visit a local botanical garden or create your own green oasis at home. Getting your hands dirty, nurturing plants, and basking in their calming presence is a therapeutic way to reconnect with nature.

Flower Crowns and Fancy Hats

Florists know their way around flowers, so why not have some fun by creating whimsical flower crowns or stylish hats adorned with blooms? Wear your floral creation proudly, even if it’s just to run errands. Spread joy and inspire others to embrace their inner flower child!

Delicious Bouquets: Edible Flower Creations

Florists don’t just create beautiful bouquets; they can also create mouthwatering ones! Experiment with edible flowers, incorporating them into delicious culinary creations. From vibrant salads to decadent desserts, let your creativity blossom in the kitchen, and savor the flavors of your floral-inspired dishes.

Floral Yoga: Poses for Relaxation

Stretch and unwind with a floral twist! Practice yoga poses inspired by flowers, such as the Lotus Pose, Tree Pose, or Butterfly Pose. Combine the calming benefits of yoga with your love for blooms, creating a unique and soothing experience that nourishes both body and soul.

Blooming Spa Day

Treat yourself to a blissful spa day after the bustling holiday season. Get a massage with essential oils infused with floral scents, enjoy a refreshing facial with floral-based products, and revel in the tranquility of a floral-themed sauna or steam room. Let the stress melt away, leaving you feeling rejuvenated.

Artistic Escapades: Floral Painting

Unleash your inner artist by creating a masterpiece inspired by nature’s floral wonders. Experiment with watercolors, acrylics, or even digital art to capture the essence of your favorite blooms. Lose yourself in the creative process and let your imagination blossom on the canvas.

Flower Power Fitness

Exercise doesn’t have to be dull! Join a flower-themed fitness class or create your own. Dance like a tulip, jump like a daisy and stretch like a sunflower. Embrace the fun side of fitness while getting your heart pumping and your endorphins flowing.

Floral Movie Marathon

Indulge in a cozy evening at home with popcorn, snacks, and a movie marathon featuring films that celebrate the beauty of flowers. From classics like “The Wizard of Oz” or “The Secret Garden” to enchanting films like “Big Fish” or “Alice in Wonderland.” Let the films transport you to a blossoming world of cinematic delight. If you are not in the mood to watch movies, you can always binge-watch your favorite show!

Florists, you’ve worked tirelessly to bring joy to countless mothers on their special day. Now it’s time to take care of yourselves and let your creativity flourish in different ways. Remember, it’s okay to take time for yourself and enjoy the beautiful world of flowers beyond the flower shop. Whether you choose to pamper yourself with spa treatments, immerse yourself in nature, or indulge in floral-themed festivities, remember that you deserve this time to rejuvenate.

So, bloom on, fabulous florists, and keep spreading your flowery magic throughout the year!

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Thank you for reading the Floranext florist blog. Floranext Love Florists and we are committed to bringing flower shops the best information and tips to run their floral business. Click here to learn more about our florist software and how you can upgrade your florist website or floral point of sale. 

Administrative Professionals Week, also known as Administrative Assistant’s Week, is a time to recognize the hard work and dedication of administrative professionals who play a crucial role in the success of many businesses. This annual event takes place during the last full week of April (April 23rd – 29th, 2023) and is an excellent opportunity for florists to show their appreciation to these valuable members of their community.

In this blog, we will discuss what Administrative Professionals Week is, why it is important to celebrate, and how florists can earn more during this special holiday.

What is Administrative Professionals Week?

Administrative Professionals Week is a time to honor and celebrate the contributions of administrative professionals, including administrative assistants, secretaries, receptionists, and other support staff. This week-long event was first established in 1952 as National Secretaries Week by the National Secretaries Association, now known as the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP).

The purpose of this event is to recognize the important role that administrative professionals play in the workplace. These individuals are often the first point of contact for customers and clients and are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of many businesses. They are essential to the smooth running of any organization, and their hard work and dedication often go unnoticed.

Why celebrate Administrative Professionals Week?

There are several reasons why it is important to celebrate Administrative Professionals Week.

Firstly, it is a way to recognize the contributions of administrative professionals who often work behind the scenes and are not always recognized for their hard work. This week-long event is an opportunity to show your appreciation and thank them for their efforts. Celebrating Administrative Professionals Week can boost morale and create a positive work environment. Recognizing the contributions of your administrative staff can help to foster a sense of teamwork and improve employee engagement. It can also help to build loyalty and improve retention rates.

Celebrating Administrative Professionals Week can help to attract and retain top talent. Employees who feel valued and appreciated are more likely to stay with their current employer and are more likely to refer others to the company. This can help to reduce turnover and recruitment costs and improve the overall performance of the business.

How can florists get involved in Administrative Professionals Week?

Florists can play an important role in celebrating Administrative Professionals Week. Flowers are a great way to show appreciation and thank administrative staff for their hard work. Here are some ways that florists can get involved in this special occasion:

Create special floral arrangements

Florists can create special floral arrangements that are perfect for Administrative Professionals Week. These arrangements can be designed to reflect the colors and themes of the event and can include a variety of flowers such as roses, lilies, and carnations.

In addition to designing custom arrangements, florists can also offer a wide range of pre-made options to businesses looking for quick and easy gift ideas. From classic rose bouquets to modern succulent gardens, there are endless options for floral gifts that are sure to delight administrative professionals.

Offer special discounts or promotions

Florists may also consider offering special discounts or promotions during Administrative Professionals Week to encourage businesses to place larger orders or to entice new customers.

Partner with local businesses

Florists can partner with local businesses to offer special promotions during Administrative Professionals Week. For example, they can offer a discount on floral arrangements to businesses that place large orders for their administrative staff.

This also provides an opportunity to give back to the community and show support for local businesses. By partnering with businesses to recognize and honor their administrative professionals, florists can strengthen relationships and build lasting connections that can lead to future opportunities.

Host a contest

Florists can host a contest during Administrative Professionals Week to encourage customers to show their appreciation to their administrative staff. For example, they can ask customers to submit a photo or video of their administrative staff and offer a prize for the best submission.

Send out email newsletters

Florists can send out email newsletters to their customers during Administrative Professionals Week to promote their special promotions and discounts. They can also include tips and ideas for how to show appreciation to administrative staff.

As florists prepare for Administrative Professionals Week, it is important to keep in mind the significance of this observance and the role that flowers can play in expressing appreciation and recognition. By offering personalized designs, pre-made options, and special promotions, florists can help businesses show their administrative professionals just how much they are valued and appreciated. With a little creativity and a lot of heart, florists can make a big impact during this special week.

Florists, what are some things that you do for Administrative professionals week at your flower shop? Share your comments below to help other florists!

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Thank you for reading the Floranext florist blog. Floranext Love Florists and we are committed to bringing flower shops the best information and tips to run their floral business. Click here to learn more about our florist software and how you can upgrade your florist website or floral point of sale. 

Spring is a beautiful season, full of vibrant colors and fresh scents. As the snow melts and the sun starts to shine, flowers begin to bloom, and the world comes to life once again. 

For florists, spring is one of the most exciting times of the year, as it marks the start of the peak season for fresh flower sales. In this blog, we will discuss ten of the most popular spring seasonal flowers that florists should be aware of and should use in any of their spring designs/arrangements.

Tulips

Tulips are one of the most popular flowers for spring. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, yellow, and purple. Tulips are versatile and can be used in a variety of arrangements, from simple bouquets to elegant centerpieces. They also have a long vase life, making them an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy their flowers for as long as possible.

Daffodils

Daffodils are a classic spring flower. They are known for their bright yellow color and trumpet-shaped blooms. Daffodils are a symbol of new beginnings and are often associated with the arrival of spring. They are perfect for adding a pop of color to any arrangement and are also a popular choice for Easter and other springtime celebrations.

Hyacinths

Hyacinths are fragrant spring flowers that come in a range of colors, from pink and purple to blue and white. They are a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor arrangements and are often used in wedding bouquets and centerpieces. Hyacinths are also associated with rebirth and renewal, making them a meaningful gift for someone who is going through a difficult time.

Iris

Iris is a striking spring flower that comes in a range of colors, including purple, blue, and white. They are known for their elegant and delicate petals, which give them a timeless and romantic look. Iris is often used in wedding bouquets and centerpieces, but it can also be used in more casual arrangements, such as springtime flower crowns.

Peonies

Peonies are one of the most beloved spring flowers, known for their large and luxurious blooms. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and white, and are often used in bridal bouquets and other special occasion arrangements. Peonies have a short vase life, so they are best enjoyed while they are fresh and in season.

Lilacs

Lilacs are fragrant spring flowers that come in a range of colors, including lavender, pink, and white. They are known for their sweet scent and delicate, ruffled petals. Lilacs are often used in wedding bouquets and centerpieces, but they are also a popular choice for more casual arrangements, such as springtime wreaths and garlands.

Ranunculus

Ranunculus is a colorful spring flower that comes in a variety of hues, from pink and red to orange and yellow. They are known for their delicate and ruffled petals, which give them a romantic and whimsical look. Ranunculus is a popular choice for wedding bouquets and centerpieces, but they can also be used in more casual arrangements, such as garden-inspired tablescapes.

Anemones

Anemones are unique spring flowers that comes in a range of colors, including white, pink, and red. They are known for their striking black centers, which give them a distinctive and eye-catching look. Anemones are often used in wedding bouquets and centerpieces, but they can also be used in more casual arrangements, such as springtime corsages.

Freesia

The delicate blooms of the Freesia come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, purple, and red. Freesias are known for their sweet fragrance, which makes them a popular choice for perfumes and other scented products. In addition to their beauty and fragrance, Freesias are also easy to care for, making them a favorite. Whether used as a single stem or as part of a larger arrangement, Freesias are a stunning addition to any spring display.

Snapdragons

Snapdragons are popular spring flowers that are often used by florists in their arrangements. Their distinctive snap-like blooms come in a range of colors, including pink, white, red, and yellow. Snapdragons are versatile and can be used in various ways in floral arrangements, from adding height to providing color contrast. Their long stems make them ideal for tall vases or as focal points in arrangements. They also have a long vase life, making them a great choice for those who want their floral displays to last longer.

From the classic tulips to the stunning peonies, these flowers are sure to bring a touch of beauty and elegance to any floral arrangement. Incorporating these spring flowers in your floral designs will not only add a pop of color but also a sense of renewal and rejuvenation. So, whether you’re looking to create a bright and cheerful bouquet or an elegant centerpiece, these top 10 spring flowers are the perfect choice for any occasion.

Florists, what is your favorite spring flower to use in your arrangements? Share your comments below!

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Thank you for reading the Floranext florist blog. Floranext Love Florists and we are committed to bringing flower shops the best information and tips to run their floral business. Click here to learn more about our florist software and how you can upgrade your florist website or floral point of sale. 

Spring is right around the corner, and as the weather warms up and the days get longer, it’s time to start thinking about getting your flower shop ready for the season. With the right preparations, you can take advantage of the increased demand for fresh blooms and make the most of the springtime rush. Here are some tips to help you get your flower shop ready for spring:

Refresh your storefront

First impressions are everything, and your storefront is often the first thing that customers see when they visit your flower shop. Take some time to refresh your storefront and make it more appealing to passersby. Clean your windows, replace any burnt-out lightbulbs and add some spring-themed decorations like potted plants or flower arrangements.

Consider adding some signage or banners advertising your springtime specials and promotions. Make sure your storefront is well-lit and inviting, and that it reflects the colors and themes of the spring season.

Update your inventory

Spring is a time for fresh starts, and your inventory should reflect this. Start by reviewing your current stock and making any necessary updates or changes. Consider adding some new varieties of flowers and plants that are popular during the spring season, such as tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

You should also consider updating your arrangements and bouquets to reflect the colors and themes of the spring season. Incorporate pastel shades and bright, bold hues, and experiment with new arrangements that showcase the freshness and beauty of spring blooms.

Train your staff

As your business picks up during the spring season, you’ll need all hands on deck to manage the increased demand. Take some time to train your staff and ensure that they are well-prepared to handle the influx of customers.

Make sure they are knowledgeable about your inventory and able to answer questions about the different flowers and plants you offer. Train them on best practices for customer service and sales, and ensure that they are comfortable handling the increased workload that comes with the springtime rush.

Refresh your website and social media

In today’s digital age, your online presence is just as important as your physical storefront. Take some time to refresh your website and social media accounts and make sure they are up-to-date and reflective of the spring season.

Update your website with new product listings and spring-themed images and graphics. Make sure your social media accounts are active and engaging and consider running some promotions or contests to drive engagement and attract new customers.

Plan for holidays and special occasions

Spring is a busy time for holidays and special occasions, including Easter, Mother’s Day, and graduations. Make sure you are prepared for these events and have plenty of inventory on hand to meet the demand.

Consider creating special promotions and packages for these occasions, such as Mother’s Day arrangements or graduation bouquets. Make sure your staff is well-trained in handling these events, and that your storefront and online presence reflect the relevant themes and colors of each occasion.

Clean and organize your workspace

As you gear up for the spring season, it’s important to take some time to clean and organize your workspace. This will not only help you stay more productive and efficient, but it will also help create a more inviting and welcoming environment for your customers.

Clean your workstations, organize your inventory and dispose of any expired or damaged products. Make sure your workspace is well-lit and free of clutter.

Network and collaborate

Spring is a great time to network and collaborate with other local businesses in your community. Consider reaching out to other businesses that complement your own, such as wedding planners, event venues, or caterers.

Work together to create joint promotions or packages, and consider cross-promoting each other. For instance, work with a local restaurant to provide flowers and a meal to mothers on Mother’s Day.

With these great spring tips to help you get focused and organized for the spring season, you should be well on your way to a successful spring. What other things do you do at your flower shop to get ready for the spring? Share your answers below!

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Thank you for reading the Floranext florist blog. Floranext Love Florists and we are committed to bringing flower shops the best information and tips to run their floral business. Click here to learn more about our florist software and how you can upgrade your florist website or floral point of sale. 

International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the incredible contributions that women have made in all areas of life, including the floral industry. Women have been at the forefront of this industry for centuries, and their work has had a profound impact on the way we appreciate and use flowers in our daily lives.

In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8th, let’s take a look at some of the most influential women in the floral industry.

left image: Image Via New York Times courtesy of Nancy Streeter | Right Image via Library of Congress

Ellen Biddle Shipman

A pioneering American landscape architect, She helped shape the profession in the United States. Born in Philadelphia in 1869, Shipman received her education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the Bussey Institute at Harvard University. After starting out as a painter, she turned her attention to landscape architecture and went on to design numerous private and public gardens throughout her career.

Shipman’s designs were known for their use of color, texture, and romantic, informal style. She was also a strong advocate for the profession, working to establish standards for education and professional practice. As a founding member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, Shipman was the first woman to be elected to its executive committee. Her legacy continues to influence the practice of landscape architecture today.

Images by Paul Popper/Popperfoto/Getty Images/Flowermag

Constance Spry

Spry paved the way for the modern floral industry. Spry was part of the avant-garde floral designers in the 1920s; Spry used an incredible amount of diverse materials, including tomatoes, fruits, wildflowers, and weeds to name a few. Spry used 17th-century Dutch flower paintings as inspiration while striving to express the beauty of the flowers and organic materials.

As a result, Spry showed the romance of flowers from simple arrangements in small vases to contemporary, larger pieces. She was one of the first women to establish a successful floral business in London in the 1920s and went on to become a leading authority on floral design.

Images via amy-merrick via Instagram

Amy Merrick

Amy Merrick is a renowned floral designer and writer based in New York City. Her work has been featured in some of the world’s most prestigious publications, including Vogue and The New York Times. She is known for her romantic and whimsical designs, which often incorporate wildflowers and other unexpected elements.

Left Image: Image via Ruby Washington/The New York Times | Right Image: via Facebook via Banchet Flowers 

Banchet Jaigla

became well-known in 2008, when people noticed how unique her floral designs were. Jaigla is inspired by her childhood in Thailand and the energy of New York City. Jaigla is known for variations of orchids and fans of baby’s breath. Jaigla works with growers in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, providing her with a variety of flowers not currently found elsewhere in New York.

Images via refinery29.com via Winnie Au

Sarah Ryhanen

She is the founder of Saipua, a floral design studio and soap company based in Brooklyn, New York. She is known for her naturalistic and textural designs, which often feature locally sourced and seasonal blooms. In addition to her work as a floral designer, Sarah is also a writer and educator and has shared her expertise through workshops and lectures around the world.

Images via theflowerpodcast.com

Debra Prinzing

Debra is known as the leading advocate for American-grown flowers. Prinzing won the American Horticultural Society’s Frances Jones Poetker Award. Prinzing promotes the Slow Flowers movement.

Images via FlowerMag via Corbin Gurkin

Ariella Chezar

Ariella Chezar is a floral designer and author based in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her designs are known for their lush, romantic style, and often incorporate unusual textures and colors. She is the author of two books on floral design, The Flower Workshop and Seasonal Flower Arranging, and has taught workshops around the world.

Images via Macon Magazine via Jessica Whitley

Vanessa Glover

Vanessa is the first African American woman in Georgia to earn the Certified Floral Designer accreditation through the American Institute of Floral Designers in 2017. Glover’s business, A Touch of Glover, launched in 1997, is now a family affair, including her husband, children, and grandchildren.

Images via Living Lars via Loria Stern

Loria Stern

Stern’s edible botanical creations are harvested from her abundant flower garden. Stern rethought floral creations by transforming bouquets into edible art. Stern draws inspiration from the natural beauty surrounding her to create edible, artfully arranged works of art.

Image via Facebook via Kateen Morris 

Kateen Morris

Kateen started Kateen’s Floral Designs in 2019 and believes in the power of florals to spark emotion. Morris is the chairwoman of Black Girl Florists, a collaborative community of black women whose purpose is to support, promote, and celebrate the creativity and contributions of black florists.

These women have made significant contributions to the floral industry, inspiring and influencing countless others with their talent and creativity. Their work has helped to shape the way we think about flowers and floral design, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of women in the industry.

Do you have any favorite historical women figures in the floral industry that have impacted your business or inspired you? Drop your favorite below to inspire your fellow florists.

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Thank you for reading the Floranext florist blog. Floranext Love Florists and we are committed to bringing flower shops the best information and tips to run their floral business. Click here to learn more about our florist software and how you can upgrade your florist website or floral point of sale.