Can You Really Have Design Freedom When Working with Hotels?
When florists dream of working with hotels, the promise of creative freedom often stands out. Unlike weddings or private events, hotel floristry can offer a unique space for innovation and artistry. But how true is the idea of “design freedom” in reality? Let’s dive into the nuances of working with hotels, where creative control, client expectations, and communication intersect.
What Design Freedom Looks Like in Hotels
Hotels offer much more freedom compared to events like weddings, where personal tastes and emotions can dictate every decision. With hotels, the focus is on aligning your designs with the brand’s standards and enhancing their guest experience.
However, design freedom doesn’t mean there are no boundaries. Hotels may not always communicate their expectations clearly, and misunderstandings can happen. This is why asking the right questions and setting clear agreements are critical to ensuring both you and the client are satisfied. This is a great resource when you start designing weekly for hotels.
Turning Missteps Into Strengths
As a florist, you’ll inevitably face moments where your vision doesn’t perfectly align with the client’s expectations. These moments are not failures—they’re opportunities to learn, refine your approach, and even create stronger client relationships.
For example, let’s say a hotel expected towering arrangements, but you created designs that spread horizontally to fill the space. Instead of dismissing the feedback, you can ask clarifying questions:
- “Are you envisioning arrangements that reach closer to the ceiling?”
- “Can you share more about the type of impact you’d like these florals to make?”
The lessons you learn in these moments can lead to stronger client connections and better communication strategies for the future.
How Contracts and Communication Create True Freedom
Contracts and boundaries play a key role in protecting your creative freedom. For instance, in The Hotel Florist Profit Method, we provide contract templates that include clauses ensuring clients cannot cancel agreements simply because they dislike the flowers. This framework helps you feel secure in your work and builds trust with your clients.
By asking thoughtful questions and building systems to manage expectations, you set the foundation for design freedom. You’re not just creating beautiful arrangements—you’re establishing yourself as a trusted expert who delivers on promises while maintaining creative integrity.
From Misunderstandings to Mastery
Miscommunications with clients don’t have to be negative. In fact, they can become a way to deepen relationships. Whether it’s a color choice that wasn’t specified or a size requirement that wasn’t clear, handling these moments with grace, accountability, and a willingness to improve can leave a lasting impression.
It’s also an opportunity to revise your processes and ensure clarity in future projects. Questions like “Do you have specific height or color preferences?” can now become part of your standard workflow.
Building Confidence in Your Design Process
When you approach hotels with confidence and clarity, you naturally build better relationships. By trusting your process and understanding that every challenge is a chance to grow, you align yourself with the kind of professionalism that hotels value.
Want to Enhance Your Skills and Save Time?
Inside The Hotel Florist Profit Method, we’ve included tools like 35 must-ask client questions and proven contract templates to help you set yourself up for success. Plus, our 100 Instagram Prompts Masterclass ensures your messaging attracts hotels that align with your vision on your social media accounts.
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 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!
