Showcasing Mother Nature - information on opening a florist shop available from the Society of American Florists

Nation's Business, July, 1995 by Meg Whittemore

My wife recently completed courses on floral design, and we are interested in learning about opening a florist shop. B.O., Sayville, N.Y. (A similar question also from T.L.B., Northumberland, Pa.)

The Society of American Florists, in Alexandria, Va., represents retailers and wholesalers in the floral business and offers a variety of helpful publications and videos. A book available from the group, Owning and Operating a Retail Flower Shop, Part 1, covers the basics. Topics include selecting a site, locating wholesalers, and establishing relationships with vendors. It also includes information on store display and general advice on starting a business. Owning and Operating a Retail Flower Shop, Part 2, focuses on promoting the business. The price of each volume is $29.95.

The organization's monthly magazine, Floral Management, covers industry trends and gives details on running a retail florist shop. A one-year subscription is $24.

The trade group sends prospective members a free packet of information containing industry statistics, articles on retail florist shops, and a business-planning kit. Also provided is a catalog of manuals and videos.

For more information, contact the Society of American Florists at 1601 Duke St., Alexandria, Va. 22314; (703) 836-8700.