If you’ve been trying to close deals with hotel clients, you might feel tempted to show them your best ideas to prove your worth. You envision an incredible floral installation, complete with professional photography, and pitch it as a trial run. It feels like the perfect way to land the contract.
But here’s the problem: this approach often gives away your brilliance without guaranteeing the result you want—a signed deal.
In this blog, we’ll discuss how to flip the script, keep your power, and position yourself as the florist hotels need to close the deal effectively. Jump into the full episode if you’re short on time!
Why Giving Away Ideas Isn’t the Answer
When you offer your ideas upfront, you’re essentially placing your talent in someone else’s hands, hoping they see your value. The truth is, hotels move slowly. Even if your idea is amazing, they might not prioritize it—or worse, they could execute it without you.
Instead, save your creative concepts for once you’ve secured the contract. When a hotel hires you, that’s when you can unleash your brilliance and help them shine.
What to Do Instead to Close Deals with Hotels
- Show Up as Their Hotel Florist
Walk into the hotel confident and composed, as though you’re already part of their team. Order a coffee, take in the ambiance, and regulate your energy before reaching out. - Make the First Move (the Right Way)
Ask to speak to the GM and keep it casual:- “I’ve been downstairs enjoying your new renovations. It looks amazing! Do you have a florist you work with?”
- Keep it simple and approachable. The goal is to spark a conversation.
- Pitch Your Vision Once Hired
During the walk through meeting later on, don’t pitch an idea as a “what if.” Instead, position your creative concepts as part of what you’ll deliver once you’re on the team:- “When we start working together, I’d love to create a floral installation to celebrate your reopening. We could even bring in a photographer to highlight the space and make your social media pop. How does that sound?”
Understand the Hotel’s Timeline to Close the Deal Effectively
Hotels don’t move at the same speed as other industries. What feels like an eternity to you—weeks of waiting for a reply—is just another day for them. Patience and persistence are key when trying to close the deal. If you’re trying to land your first hotel you can check out this blog here or The Starter Challenge which is 7 days of actionable steps to get you started!
Key Takeaway: Keep the Power in Your Hands
Your ideas are valuable. Don’t give them away to “prove” yourself. It’s important to remember your value even when working with new clients or potential clients. Instead, remind the hotel why you’re the right florist by showing up as their partner and sharing how you’ll add value once you’re hired.
Tie-In to Your Next Step
If you’re actively pitching hotels or gearing up to do so, it’s time to take a more strategic approach. Inside my 100 Instagram Prompts Masterclass, you’ll find easy ways to position yourself as a hotel floral expert and keep your ideas fresh without burnout. Another great option is The Starter Kit. It has everything you need to land your first client including my exact hotel contract and all the “plug and play” templates for your business that you can use right away. Let’s make sure your social presence speaks directly to your ideal clients and helps you close the deal faster.
Already a florist and eager to expand into luxury hotels and create consistent income? Come join over 135 florists in the 7 Day Challenge! 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! Discover the “cliff-notes” of our high level group coaching program, the Hotel Florist Profit Method, where you can learn more about what flowers to use, design mechanics and more on this topic!
