Want to Run a Flower Shop? What You'll Need -- and What You Won't.

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Entrepreneur Contributor

August 3, 2016 3 min read

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"Floristry has been glamorized as a luxurious, hobby-like career. But we deal with 4 a.m. alarms, tired bodies, a perishable product and difficult clients. We work weekends and holidays -- especially holidays," says one of our experts, Heather Williams.

If you're looking to run a flower shop, here is some industry insight on what you will and won't need.

What you’ll need:

1. Multiple products or services.
Flower sales are heavily impacted by the economy and trends. Insulate yourself by diversifying: Offering door-to-door delivery; selling nonperishable goods like cards, candles and ceramics; building out your event portfolio; and hosting flower-arranging classes.

2. A resale certificate.
Depending on your state, it may be required to receive tax-free wholesale goods.

3. Relationships with local businesses.
Drop off a free arrangement once a week at a coffee shop or restaurant frequented by people you would like to be your customers. Just ask the manager to keep a stack of your business cards next to the arrangement and to pass along your name if guests ask.

4. Regular clients.
“In the beginning, I focused on acquiring weekly accounts with restaurants, hotels, residences and marketing agencies,” says Bess Wyrick. “It was easier to control my buying when I had standing orders.”

…and what you won’t:

1. A floristry certification program.
It is not a legal requirement, and many of its teachings -- and types of flowers used -- are outmoded. You’re better off apprenticing with a skilled florist.

2. Lots of equipment, or a retail space.
To start, buy a fridge, a hardwood table, vases and pruning equipment, and build your brand from home.

3. A price that beats the supermarkets’.
Not possible. Don’t sweat it. “Supermarkets sell flowers,” says Amy Backman. “We offer an experience, design, expertise, quality and a range of uncommon flowers.”