How many times have you heard yourself say, “They already have a florist,” and let that thought stop you from pursuing a dream client? I get it—it feels like a dead end. But here’s the truth: that florist is only there until they aren’t, and your opportunity may be closer than you think. Today, I want to share a personal story that will reshape how you see potential clients, especially those in the hospitality industry.
The Story Behind My Hotel Contract:
For six years, I worked with a single hotel as their florist. Over that time, I completed 301 weekly installations. That’s 301 weeks where I didn’t have to worry about where my next paycheck would come from. I actually recorded a podcast about this that you can listen to here. It was an incredible experience and it put my business on the map.
At the end of 2022, I decided not to renew the contract for a seventh year as one reason, among others, was that I was selling my floral business. On my last install, my General Manager asked me if I wanted to know who would be taking my place. I declined at the time, knowing I wasn’t ready to hear it yet. Fast forward to this past summer, when I finally revisited the hotel and met with the GM over coffee. I asked who the new florist was, and it turned out to be exactly who I thought—a florist who had waited six years to get her foot in the door. One who had built a personal relationship with the GM over that time.
The Lesson:
Here’s the key takeaway: This florist patiently waited six years to secure this hotel client, and now she’s on her second year with them. She didn’t let the thought of “they already have a florist” stop her from building a relationship with the hotel. This is why connections matter in business. It’s not about instant gratification; it’s about persistence, relationships, and being ready for the opportunity when it presents itself.
If you’ve ever thought, “They already have a florist,” remember that could change at any moment. The current florist may leave, the hotel might want a fresh perspective, or the dynamic of their relationship could shift. Your job is to start building that relationship and staying top of mind until that door opens for you.
Two Sides of the Coin:
The relationship between a hotel and their florist is often a mystery to outsiders. You don’t know what’s happening behind the scenes. Don’t give up just because you think there’s no room for you. If you truly believe that a hotel or corporate client is where you belong, keep following up, nurture the relationship, and be ready when the time comes.
Conclusion:
Don’t let the fear of “they already have a florist” stop you from going after your dream clients. The florist there today might not be there tomorrow. And when that opening happens, you want to be the one they think of first. Keep building those connections, stay persistent, and remember that patience and relationships are key in this business. If you’re ready to stop letting fear get in your way of taking action in your floral business, check this out!
Already a florist and eager to expand into luxury hotels and create consistent income? Check out our free masterclass! It’s packed with actionable insights to help you succeed.
Keep blooming,
Franceska
PS: Did you know I have a bestselling book on working with hotels? It’s available on Amazon!
