Information:

OAF Cultivate’19 will be held July 13-16, 2019 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.

For more information about this year’s event, please visit OFA Website.

In Lieu of Flowers is perhaps the most detrimental 4 words in floral business

Conveying compassion and respect for one’s passing is traditionally defined by sending flowers. The utmost disappointment is that customers take “In Lieu Of Flowers” literally. We understand it does say “In Lieu Of Flowers,” however,  that in no way means the family does not want flowers at the viewing/funeral service.

As floral professionals you understand how somber a viewing/ funeral service would be without flowers. The added beauty of sympathy flower arrangements is there to offer comfort to the visitors and also pay tribute to the deceased.  The terminology of “In Lieu Of Flowers” has caused an uproar in the floral community as it should, this is awfully mistaken too many times by customers.

The Future of In Lieu Of Flowers

What is a floral business owner to do with the phrase “In Lieu Of Flowers?” We do not pretend to have all the answers, however, maybe it’s time once and for all the floral industry with working with funeral businesses to boycott this phrase altogether.

Although many florists have expressed their frustrations with local funeral homes, the “In Lieu Of Flowers” phrase offers a direct message not to send flowers and undermines the floral business. This is absolutely unacceptable, besides that, the true meaning of giving flowers is lost here. Regardless if someone wants to convey sympathy with flowers or not, there is no reason for the subliminal message!

Educate Customers

So how can you educate customers? First is take the steps to post a blog on your floral website explaining to customers what “In Lieu Of Flowers” really means.  Have a small write up on the sympathy section on your website as well. Don’t be afraid to also post on social media as well!

Write A Letter To Your Local Funeral Homes

This may or may not work, however, all it takes is one funeral home director to understand the importance of re-wording “In Lieu Of Flowers” and make a difference. Changing wording to “Send flowers and donations here,”  “Memorial contributions can be sent here, ” completely changes the playing field.

There are so many different phrases that can be used to convey a less discriminatory message. What the floral community is asking for is not to make people send flowers for funeral services, but to leave tradition alone and allow people to make their own heartfelt decision.

Why Flowers Are Important At Funeral Services

There truly is no other sentiment you can send for a memorial service be it, charity donations or even money itself that can express as many emotions as flowers do.

Since the beginning of time flowers have been displayed for the deceased as a symbol of condolences, sympathy, and love. Thousands of years ago, they were used for their wonderful fragrances and soft beauty. In this time of mourning when words are forgotten the flowers offer comfort to its surroundings. Flowers also represent one’s life’s cycle, from one’s birth to one’s passing.

Taking the flowers out of memorial service will make the ambiance look dim and murky. The flowers are there to create an environment which is more comforting for people when mourning.

We could go on and on why flowers are so important at memorial services, the simple reason is flowers are natures miracles, and florists are natures miracle workers. Nothing in this world expresses the same sentiment as flowers do when given as an expression of sympathy. Let’s encourage people to respect tradition an appreciate flowers.

What is wrong with doing both?

Back in the day, some may remember, it was acceptable to give a monetary donation and flowers, a mass card, food and flowers for someone’s funeral service. No matter how you looked at it flowers works hand in hand with any other expression of sympathy.

Why are things different now? Do people have less money? Why not donate to desired charity and send flowers together?

In certain circumstances, if you cannot beat them, then intrigue them! Perhaps the future of the floral business is to partner up with charities.  Sympathy flowers can be sent to the memorial service and florists can also donate to the respected charity on the customer’s behalf.

Although this may sound far-fetched, there are ways to accomplish this by directly participating with well-known cause affected charities

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Florists, Has “In Lieu Flowers” hurt or has had a very little effect on your floral business?  Please share your feedback in the comment section below. If you have any questions please post below as well!

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Floranext makes great florist software. Florist websites, floral POS, florist wedding/event proposal software, and florist technology. Let us know if you want a free demo or try our software for free here.

 

Halloween is one of the top holidays for business retailers, with sales outperforming every holiday other than Christmas.

An ever-increasing number of individuals share in this fun occasion by spending millions of dollars per year on sweets, home decor, costumes, and more. Couldn’t florists take advantage of Halloween?

Is it because of lack of inspiration or interest, or is Halloween outside the brand? Not everything needs to be in black and white…or purple and orange!

Instagram is a great source of inspiration for some frightening floral arrangements that can generate some interest with customers while helping you stay true to your brand and style.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Florists, are you selling Halloween arrangements at your flower shop? Are you seeing an influx in sales during this holiday? Share your comments below!

 

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Floranext makes great florist software. Florist websites, floral POS, florist wedding/event proposal software, and florist technology. Let us know if you want a free demo or try our software for free here.

Add some Tricks and Treats to your flower sales with these spell-binding tips!

Halloween has gained serious recognition among business retailers and no wonder why, as adults look forward and partake in this fun holiday and are spending millions on the holiday.

It is said that Halloween sales surpass every holiday except Christmas. So why aren’t Florists cashing in on Halloween?  In this blog, we want to help floral businesses cash in on Halloween profits and establish long lasting  patrons.

 

Make A Ghoulish Flower Arrangement

Make a few creative, spine – chilling, Halloween flower arrangements and donate them to your local busy eateries, pubs, hair salons, and so on.

Think large crowds and make sure your business card is displayed and visible.

Many florists have participated in donating arrangements and it has paid off big time. The purpose here is to bring recognition to your flower shop business.

Tip: Donate an arrangement to the main office of your high school. Kids love these and will remember your flower shop when prom comes around. 

 

Spooktacular Window Display

First impressions count! Be sure to make your window display or front entrance stand out and ooze with creativity. Getting patrons into your flower shop is key in increasing your profits.

Tip: Adding an enticing sign to your entrance will help bring traffic into your store, remember, everyone loves bargains incorporate these signs in the Halloween decor.

 

Sell Halloween Hair – Raising Items

Think of carrying a few Halloween specific items in your store. Patrons flock for candles, Halloween baskets, soaps, lotions, and jewelry. Make a small display, preferably at the front counter near cash drawer. Create designer pumpkins with ribbon, wheat, and other fall items to create a centerpiece that will last through the fall season.

Tip: It’s great to include mums, hay, and pumpkins for sale, at your shop.  These items will allow your patrons to buy all they need from one location. 

 

Be A Sales Warlock

Cold calling still works, if you are located near hotels, corporate businesses, and busy restaurants, pick up the phone and give them a ring.  Ask them if they would like a jaw-dropping Halloween arrangement for their lobby or front entrance, you will be surprised how great this works.

 

Host a Spellbinding Flower Workshop

These are all the rage and create fun exciting pass times for your patrons. Remember the theme is Halloween. You can teach anything from a fun Halloween arrangement, like adding flowers to a pumpkin or even decorating a Halloween wreath.

These are buzz worthy, don’t forget to post on social media!

 

Thrill Customers On Your Website 

Make sure to update your floral website. Do not skip over Halloween, make sure to add some beautiful Halloween arrangements and items for sale.

How about also writing a Halloween blog? Offering your readers some creative tips for this festive holiday. This will help increase your SEO and make your eCommerce store recognizable across the internet. Be sure to add enough content and images. Remember,  Dia De Los Muertos is November 1st.

 

Flowers Mystify The Media

Involving the media is a sure way to get you and your flower shop recognized. There are many things you can offer on Halloween to get you recognized in the media.

If you are close to your local news channel, send them a beautiful creative flower arrangement.  Make sure to offer the arrangement to all the anchors and thank them for a job well done.  You are sure to get your flower shop and creative arrangements on the news.

Another way is get your schools involved, offer free arrangements for students who write the best essays, these can include why Halloween is their favorite holiday, someone they admire and so on.

 

Enchanted Costumes = Flower Sales 

If you are open on Halloween have everyone dress up. This may sound far-fetched, however, you will see an increase traffic into your store if everyone is participating. Have one of your  best -dressed employees stand out front your store throughout the  day preferably holding an enticing  sign.

Offer special discounts on single stem or bunched flowers for costumes or accessories for customer Halloween costumes.

 

These are just a few suggestions on how florists can tie Halloween into marketing and sales.  We would love to hear about your Halloween marketing and sales tips, please share with our readers below.

 

 

 

 

 

Information:

SAF’s 1-Day Profit Blast Was launched in 2016 and since then has been presented in many cities across the U.S.

The Profit Blast is to provide florists with great educational content from aspects of design, business, tech and more.

The one-day event is perfect for florists that can’t be away from their flower shops for more than one day at a time.

Florists can also enjoy the supplier expo. 

 

Schedule:

Would you consider floral designing with marijuana?

It’s very rare that the floral industry makes controversial news, but with the legalization of marijuana in some parts of the world, florists have seen this as an opportunity to market to new customers by offering something a bit risqué and novel in their creative floral designs.

Some say this is their ticket to gain notoriety and bring in more traffic and book more events by offering mariflorals. Yes, that is correct, Marijuana in floral arrangements.

Floral design with marijuana is a fairly new concept in the flower industry—only a handful of floral professionals are taking this leap now, but who knows—this may become the norm in years to come.

For those who have dabbled in designing with cannabis/marijuana, the results have been positive with delicate flower arrangements incorporating a touch of marijuana, some even say the greens from the marijuana leaves actually create a balanced fusion in their designs. With more customers opting for marijuana in their florals mainly at weddings, the rise for birthday mariflorals is now picking up speed as well.

We grant that while some of you may think this is genius, others may find the idea downright inappropriate, but having awareness of the evolving flower industry is key to keeping us all current.

At this time, due to current State laws in regards to Marijuana, the customer/client will actually need to provide the florist with the marijuana plant itself and must be legal in your area. After your customer provides the marijuana plants it cannot be delivered, it must be picked up by the customer.

DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only, we are in no way telling you to incorporate or sell marijuana with your florals. Please check your local laws before designing with cannabis, and do so at your own risk.

 Ah, Fall! The time where kids are going back to school, the brisk autumn air and a harvest of flower trends galore.

This bountiful season is approaching with exciting inspirational florals that encompass the beginning of this wondrous time of the year. Floral trends are defined by something that is new, different and copied because of its enormous popularity and demand. These forecasted floral trends are making a huge impact with loyal followers on social media.

Take a look at the top 5 Fall Forecasted Trends below and see if this is something you are currently implementing or inspired to try something new.

 

 5. Flower Baskets

It’s safe to say that flower baskets are used pretty much daily by floral designers, how wonderful that they are now actually trending for the upcoming Fall season.

The biggest component here is to use quality baskets with an organic flower design which is slightly more structured.

 

4. Flowers In A Box

Oh my! Flowers in a box are so popular right now in Europe.  Not to be confused with flowers that protrude out of the box. These floral box arrangements are made to be completely inside the box,  revealing its beauty when the box lid is open.

Customers love these as gifts and sometimes add other surprises such as sweets or jewelry to complete this unique beautiful gift.  It’s very simple to make these arrangements with cellophane, oasis and the box of your choice with matching lid.

 

3.Flower Ribbons

Wedding bouquets with added multiple strands of high quality flowing ribbon are amongst the hottest trend for fall. Although already very hot this summer, the difference now is the longer the ribbon, the more romantic the look.  Pair it with gradual lengths of ribbon either the same color or different hues in the same color family for Fall.

 

2. Preserved Flower Wreaths

There is a new creative twist on flower wreaths this season which is more organic, rustic with a little whimsy. These floral wreaths are now being sold by large chain home decor stores because of their high demand.

1. Flowers & Feathers

Flowers and feathers are actually not a new trend. Florists have been incorporating feathers in their floral arrangements for centuries. The difference this fall is the quality and uniqueness of the feathers. Opt for feathers with interesting geometric designs and length.

Do not limit feathers to only wedding bouquets these look great in any basket arrangement, vase or centerpiece.

Be sure to refer to this  Floral Cheat Sheet for trending flowers and greens selection.

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Florists, what are your thoughts on these trends for Fall Yay or Nay? Have you incorporated any of these top 5 Fall Trends in your flower shop? Please share your feedback or questions below in the comment section.

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Floranext makes great florist software. Florist websites, floral POS, florist wedding/event proposal software, and florist technology. Let us know if you want a free demo or try our software for free here.

 

Flower crowns are the biggest trend right now and at this point, it’s safe to say they are not going away!

Although flower crowns are hugely sought after for weddings and special events now, they are actually a floral trend of the past starting in Ancient Greece where they were worn to pay tribute to gods and then much later to represent peace, love and harmony.

We welcome the flower crown today which represents celebration, some say fertility, besides that there is no doubt about it, everyone just looks so attractive in a flower crown.

Most florists know how to make a flower crown, but for those who are new to the floral industry, this blog will show you the easiest way to make a basic flower crown.

Supplies:

You will need Wire, Wire Cutters or Floral Scissors, Stem Wrap Tape and Crowning Glory.

Floral Wire – You will need 22-inch gauge and 26-inch gauge wire. If you only have 26-inch gauge wire just be sure to double up to make the wire stronger when making the crown form.

Floral Stem Wrap – This is the same tape used for corsages and boutonnieres self-sealing wrap which sticks to itself and flower stems.

Wire Cutters/Floral Scissors –  What ever your preference is, you may feel it is easier and faster to work with both of these.

Crowning Glory – Slows the deterioration and browning of flowers, greens and plants.

Floral Greens:

There are so many variations of greens you may use in a floral crown. If making a dainty floral crown you may opt for smaller leaf greens. We encourage you to try many variations of greens in your flower crowns.

Eucalyptus  – is a great leaf choice,  There are multiple variations of Eucalyptus that can be used to achieve that so sot after bohemian flower crown look.

Tip: Do not limit yourself,  experiment with different floral green variations when making your floral crown and try mixing greens together it looks amazing.

Flower/Filler Stems:

Pick your desired flower stems, think of what you want to accomplish with the flower crown. For a cluster on one side use, the main flower stem called the “statement flower” these can be big dahlias or garden roses, these look best with smaller surrounding flowers.

For the bohemian flower crown, that is ever so popular with smaller flowers, loads of greens, berries and filler flowers work to accomplish the look and feel.

Filler flowers should be selected as a compliment to the floral greens and flowers, use little touches here and there which provides lots of whimsy to the flower crown.

Be sure to select different variations of flowers if using spray roses, select buds and open roses, to create movement within the flower crown.

• Ranunculus
• Lisianthus
• Juliet Garden Rose
• Spray Roses
• Wax Flower
• Hypericum Berries
• Baby’s Breath, and so many more – click here to see the full list of flowers

Tip: When you have the basics down on making a flower crown, there really are no rules when selecting flowers, greens and filler. Use a little of this, or no greens, or more filler, it’s up to your imagination and creation.  Just be sure the flower crown still consists of the basic principles of flower design,  Balance, Harmony, Proportion, Movement & Unity.

How To Make An Easy Flower Crown:

We promise its way easier then it looks.

1. Cut your foliage to about 4- 6 inches and set aside, no need to pre-wire your foliage ahead of time.
2. Cut your berries now if you like or you may cut as you go later.
3. Cut your statement flower and flowers picking the heads that you need, remember to mix it up and use various sizes of the same flower.
4. Trim flowers to about 1/2 inch to an 1″ underneath the head of the flower.
5. Cut your 26-inch gauge wire into a piece that is about 5 inches long.
6. In the largest part of the flower calyx (calyx is also known as sepals and it the part of the flower that holds the reproductive organs) go ahead and run the wire horizontally in the largest part of the calyx right below the flower head. Bring the wire ends together and use your stem wrap to cover the wire completely.
7. Go ahead and do this to all your floral stems.
8. If using filler flowers such as wax or other filler flowers there is no need to wire.
9. Making the flower crown form.  Take two pieces of 22-inch gauge wire make sure to use the floral stem wrap to secure the wire one end to another end to complete one horizontal line.
10. Feel free to wrap the wire around your head at this time and figure out a starting point slightly in front of the ear, behind or even right in the front.
11. We find it easier to work with the crown open, so you can maneuver as needed later
12. Take your small pieces of greens starting one by one and lay on the wire using stem wrap to secure the greens on the wire at the end of the stem.  As you go, be sure to overlap the greens to hide the floral stem wrap and pull on the floral stem wrap stretching around the wire.
13. Add about 2-3 green cut stems and then a little bit of your filler flower of choice, use your floral stem wrap to secure the filler flower.
14. Make sure that your stems are facing in the right direction outward of the crown.
15. Add your flowers and berries the same way you added your greens and filler, be sure to look at the crown to make sure that it looks balanced.
16.  Keep in mind most crowns have flower clusters which do not go fully around the crown, decide the look you are going for.
17. Be sure to treat the flower crown with Crowning Glory, spray directly on flower crown which will slow down the wilting.
18. Flower crowns can be made two days ahead of time and stored in a cooler in a sealed container much like a courage or boutonniere.

Tip: Be sure to always use 100% Crowning Glory do not dilute with water, adding water does not allow Crowning Glory to work to its full benefit and has little affect in prolonging the life of your flowers. 

Florist We Would Love To Share Your Flower Crown Masterpiece!

Submit your Flower Crown images and be featured in August blog with credit to you and your flower shop!  For all Flower Crown image submissions email here info@Floranext.com be sure to add your name, shop name and designer of flower crown.

Florists do you have a Flower Crown tip? Please share your feedback in the comment section below. If you have any questions please post below as well!

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Floranext makes great florist software. Florist websites, floral POS, florist wedding/event proposal software, and florist technology. Let us know if you want a free demo or try our software for free here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Floral stem trends have hit all time high with the use of social media platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram.

Surprisingly people have taken an interest in the actual floral and greenery stems of the arrangement rather than the overall look and feel. Of course, the look and feel is just as important but picking the blooms and greens is equally as important.

Florists, we understand how this can be a catch 22, as some florals and greens may not be readily available or could even be impractical. However, we must pay homage to the overwhelming interest in florals and their greenery counter-partners, as this has given florists the recognition they so deserve for their exceptional creativity and artistry status.

In this blog, we will list the hottest most sought after trending floral, greenery and succulent stems. Most florists will be familiar with these blooms however for those that are new to the floral industry, this will be your go to blooms cheat sheet.

 

2017  Greens Floral Trends:

These are the hottest trending greens right now and are here to stay for a long time.  Using these greens will beautifully accentuate any floral arrangement. Try incorporating a new go to green at your flower shop to any floral vase, or design piece you make to add that updated look and feel.

1. Trick Dianthus
2. Amaranthus
3. Poppy Pods
4. Seeded Eucalyptus
5. Silver Dollar Eucalyptus
6. Baby Blue Eucalyptus
7. Gunni Eucalyptus 
8. Parvifolia Eucalyptus
9. Jasmin
10. Tree Fern
11. Ming Fern 
12. Maidenhair Fern
13. Sword Fern
14. Myrtle
15. Italian Ruscus 

Tip: Mixing eucalyptus varieties in floral garlands looks absolutely breathtaking and offers that vintage look that is so in right now.

 

2017 Succulent Floral Trends:

Let’s face it, succulents in floral arrangements are here to stay. Strategically placed succulents in any floral design offer high impact. We also love the fact that succulents are so resilient and long lasting.

1. Burros Tail 
2. Echeveria Desert Rose
3. Echeveria Perle Von Nurnberg
4. Echeveria Green Prince 
5. Hens & Chicks
6. String of Pearls
7. Trachyandra

 

2017 Herb Floral Trends:

If you are not using herbs in your floral arrangements yet then just wait, these are so current and will get even more popular in time.

Using herbs in floral designs are very popular because of the special  meaning behind each herb, which provides a specific good fortune. Try incorporating some of these trending herbs in your floral arrangements and wedding designs.

1. Sage, Wisdom & Long Life
2. Rosemary, Loyalty & Fidelity
3. Thyme, Courage & Bravery
4. Basil, Love & Goodwill
5. Mint, Virtue & Honesty 
6. Parsley, Merriment & Joy 

 

2017 Flower Floral Trends:

These flower stems offer that bohemian modish style that is so alluring and captivating for all. Paired with greens, succulents, and herbs these blooms make for a show-stopping presentation.

1. Dahlia
2. Ranunculus
3. Peonies
4. Juliet Rose 
5. Astilbe
6. Electra Spray Rose
7. Lisianthus
8. Agapanthus
9. Anemone
10. Protea King
11. China Mum 
12. Craspedia 
13. Allium 
14. Scabiosa 
15. Forget-me-knot
16. Thistle 
17. Limonium
18. Queens Anne’s Lace 
19. Veronica
20. Sweet Pea 
21. Wax Flower 
22. Baby’s Breath
23. Hydrangea
24. Delphinium

 

We hope that this list will be helpful in providing knowledge of the top trending blooms, greens, and succulents. Florists are there any floral blooms, greens, or succulents not listed? Please share an essential flower, green, succulent or herb that you feel every florist should utilize in their flower shop.

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Floranext makes great florist software. Florist websites, floral POS, florist wedding/event proposal software, and florist technology. Let us know if you want a free demo or try our software for free here.

 floral designing is three-dimensional art which expresses creativity and imagination.

Florists you surely already know that you are an artist, though following these basic elements: Balance, Proportion and Rhythm, some flower designers and flower enthusiasts have put their talent to work and are being recognized for their amazing works in the floristry industry.

Flowers, as we know, are nature’s miracle and provide the perfect art medium, with beautiful colors and textures to create the most magnificent color pallet.  It’s no wonder some flower designers and artists are taking a step out of the box and looking at flowers in a whole new way.

In this blog, we want to share how florists and flower enthusiasts are taking flower arranging in floristry by storm with their creativity and superb technique.

 

Flowers In The Trash

Amazing how flowers in a New York City trash can actually make this trash can look so gorgeous like we always said flowers are simply powerful.

Equally as amazing is how much recognition floral designer Lewis Miller received for his exquisite floral art displays throughout  New York City. We love Lewis Miller for showcasing his floral designing talents and adding awareness on the powerful impact flowers have in any surrounding.

 

Lavish Floral Arches

It certainly was no easy task finding our showcase image for Putnam &  Putnam (Darroch and Michael Putnam). Their floral works of art are simply amazing and inspirational.

 

Floral Design Elements

Sarah Winward has really taken the floral design elements to a whole new level. Her floral arrangements are breathtaking with perfect balance, proportion, and rhythm.  Looking at her floral works will surely evoke feelings of serenity.

 

Modern Floral Architecture

Stef Adriaenssens has been captivating Europe with his masterful modern architectural floral displays. His technique for balance and clean line design with lots of touches of the unexpected is beyond perfection. Simply amazing!

 

Floral Portrait Design

If you have not heard of Justina Blakeney you are in for a real treat.  Justina Blakeney has gained recognition for her incredible works of art, the one being #Facethefoliage. We love the use of leaves, stems and flowers in these whimsical works of art. We also equally love the new found use of florals and plants which inspire followers to look at flowers in a whole new way.

 

There are so many floral designers and floral enthusiasts who are creating a buzz in the floristry industry. We certainly could not feature all in this blog, however, we will continue with this series of blogs a few times a year to offer recognition and thanks for all the inspiration.

Florists we would love to hear your feedback and questions. Do you have a favorite flower art artist? please share in the comments sections below.

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Floranext makes great florist software. Florist websites, floral POS, florist wedding/event proposal software, and florist technology. Let us know if you want a free demo or try our software for free here.