Many florists also supply commercial customers such as wedding planners, funeral directors, hotel and restaurant proprietors, and exhibition and event organisers.

Flowers are typically supplied for special events such as weddings, the birth of a baby, funerals, anniversaries, for Valentine’s and Mother’s Day, and as birthday or thank you gifts.

Many florists use their own vehicle for deliveries to their local customers. Florists who are members of flower relay network schemes, such as Interflora, accept orders from local customers that can be delivered nationwide by other florists within the network, and also supply and deliver flowers to recipients in their local area on behalf of florists from outside their geographical area.

This profile provides information about starting up and trading as a florist. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support.