Walking into a hotel and realizing they only use plants instead of flowers can be intimidating for a florist. You might wonder if you need to be an expert in plants, gardening, or even holiday décor to land the contract. But let’s take a moment to reframe this scenario—it’s not a problem; it’s an opportunity.
This blog on What if the hotel only wants plants and not flowers, will walk you through how to handle plant-focused hotels, the questions to ask, and how to navigate situations where your expertise doesn’t align perfectly with their needs.
Step 1: Reframe Your Perspective
The fear of being asked to do something outside your expertise is natural, but it’s important to remember:
- You don’t need to be an expert in everything.
- You’re already capable of finding solutions, whether through learning or outsourcing.
When faced with a hotel that only wants plants, take it as an opportunity to explore whether this is something you want to incorporate into your offerings or partner with someone who specializes in it. If you need a boost on what to do when you don’t have it all figured out, this blog is for you.
Step 2: Ask the Right Questions
Curiosity is your greatest tool. When speaking to a hotel that leans toward plants, here’s what you can ask:
- What are you currently looking for in your plant maintenance or design?
- Are you satisfied with your current vendor, or are there gaps in their service?
- Are there seasonal or aesthetic upgrades you’d like to implement?
These questions not only give you clarity but also allow you to position yourself as a solution-oriented professional.
Step 3: Decide If It Aligns with Your Business Goals
Not every opportunity is the right fit. If you find that maintaining plants doesn’t excite you, it’s okay to step away or outsource. However, if plants are bundled with a fresh-cut floral contract or something else of value, you may want to consider taking it on. You do not have to compromise on your values if it doesn’t feel right.
Step 4: Outsource When Necessary
If the hotel’s needs go beyond your expertise or interest, outsourcing is a powerful solution. For instance:
- Partner with a plant care specialist for maintenance.
- Bring in a botanical designer for intricate installations like moss walls.
Transparency is key. Communicate clearly with the hotel about how you’ll manage the project while ensuring high-quality results. If you are worried about not having a team yet, this blog will be helpful for you.
Step 5: Focus on Relationships
Remember, this isn’t just about plants or flowers—it’s about building a lasting relationship. Even if the hotel doesn’t need your expertise today, your ability to show flexibility, curiosity, and a willingness to problem-solve can make you their go-to florist for future projects.
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
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