Many florists dream of breaking into the hospitality scene, with visions of becoming the go-to hotel florist and watching their business flourish. The allure of increased foot traffic, more website visits, and a surge in clientele seems almost guaranteed. But is it really? As someone who’s been in the trenches, that’s what I’m here for. So I’m debunking the myth that becoming a hotel florist doesn’t automatically equate to more walk-in customers or a boost in business. Here’s why.
The Reality Check:
The biggest misconception florists have is thinking that by landing a hotel contract, they’ll suddenly attract a flood of new clients. Let’s get real: the client in this scenario isn’t the hotel’s guests; it’s the hotel itself. When you secure a hotel contract, you’re agreeing to fulfill a specific scope of work for a set period, typically 1-3 years. Your job is to serve the hotel, not necessarily its guests.
The guests at these hotels, while they may appreciate your floral arrangements, are not your direct clients. They’re visitors who are often just passing through. They’re not local, and they’re not likely to become regular customers. The hotel’s priority is to surprise and delight these guests, and your role is to help them achieve that.
The True Benefits of Being a Hotel Florist:
Maybe it makes you feel a certain way to hear that we’re debunking this myth, because we all want more sales right? While becoming a hotel florist may not directly increase your sales, it offers significant advantages that can help you build a more stable and respected business in the long run.
- Consistent Income: One of the most substantial benefits is the steady, reliable income. Unlike weddings and events, which can be seasonal or sporadic, hotel contracts provide a consistent revenue stream. This stability allows you to grow your business without the constant worry of where your next client will come from.
- Exposure: Working with a hotel, especially a high-end one, builds brand equity. It shows the world that your work is valued and trusted by reputable establishments. This kind of exposure can do wonders for your reputation, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
- Brand Equity: Brand equity is an often-overlooked benefit of hotel contracts. When you align yourself with prestigious brands, you build long-term value in your business. This equity is crucial, especially if you’re thinking about the future and your exit strategy. When I sold my floral business, the brand equity I had built through hotel contracts with names like Chanel and Four Seasons was a significant factor in its value. If you want more guidance on how to land hotel contracts, read this blog!
Conclusion:
The myth that being a hotel florist will automatically increase your sales needs to be debunked. While it might not lead to a flood of new clients, the benefits of consistent income, exposure, and brand equity far outweigh the drawbacks. It’s about playing the long game, building your brand’s value over time, and ensuring your business remains relevant and respected in the industry.
Did you enjoy this content? The full episode of Debunking The Myth that Being a Hotel Florist Increases Sales is available here!
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!
