BellaRissatc
4 posts
Jun 19, 2008
8:19 AM
|
Hello everyone!
Yolanda and I are contemplating if we should pick up bridal bouquets from the receptions or if someone should bring them to us. If we pick them up should we charge?
PLEASE weigh in with what works for you. If you charge, how much do you charge?
Thanks so much and I hope everyone is having a prosperous wedding season!
|
ESJones
3 posts
Jun 22, 2008
6:42 AM
|
I don't charge to pick up bouquets and neither do my competitors. The flowers are in much better shape and I rarely have to replace flowers when I pick up. I am very specific about how far out of our county I'll go to get bouquets. I know some preservationists offer a discount if the family brings the bouquet to them.
|
George
1 post
Jul 09, 2008
3:59 AM
|
We started a program last year where we will give free courier service within our local area or a discounted courier service to our wider service area. In order to qualify brides merely must have contracts signed, deposits paid, and decisions made in regard to their final arrangement. It has helped in pushing brides to get all decisions made earlier. Brides also see it as a major convenience (and love getting in on this "season special"). And we get the flowers in the best shape. It's a total win/win situation.
|
SilkWorm
2 posts
Jul 09, 2008
6:55 AM
|
We charge for pick up at the reception site. Our fees are milage based and account for our time and gas. We're always looking for ways to get our brides to pre-register, maybe offering a free, or discounted pickup would help encourage pre-registration.
|
infinitybouquets
3 posts
Jul 09, 2008
3:28 PM
|
We definately charge! In fact, just recently our charges were increased. Our charges start at $35 (local) to $75 (80 plus miles). We cover a vast area of Southern California and with gas at $4.69 a gallon, we feel it VERY important not to do this service for free. Our clients have never seemed surprised by the charge or not booked because of it. If anything they completely understand. In addition, we offer to meet them half way for our design appointment. This saves on time for both customer and us and makes it more convenient for everyone. Don't forget how valuable your time is! We often forget this part...but our time away from family should be worth it! Good luck.
|
trudy1
1 post
Aug 12, 2008
2:27 PM
|
Hello Everyone!
I started my business in January of 2007. The first year my business did well during spring, summer and fall. Although May was very good this year, I didn't get anything for June, July,and August. I know that the brides were very satisfied with my work because most of my work came from referals. Advertising has not really increased my business as expected. Because business was good the first year, I didn't attend any of the local bridal shows. I work alone and I didn't want to get too overloaded this year, but I got nothing! I have been a floral designer for 15 years and very much enjoy doing these bouquets. I get some referals come from local florist shops. I show my work to the shops and they want to offer my services to their customers. Are the bridal shows the way to go? Do you all have web pages and do they help! I would appreciate any help!!
Thanks
Trudy
|
infinitybouquets
4 posts
Aug 16, 2008
7:00 PM
|
I think we're all feeling a bit from the drop in the economy. But I do think there are still people out there who have preservation in their budgets and are willing to spend their money with us. We just have to find them! Bridal shows turned out to be a life saver for me. We do one big show in January and a few small ones throughout the year. The key is to find one in a part of town with a larger household income or a vast amount of people. And choose a show in the winter, as most of your summer brides will attend. Offer something amazing with their deposit and booking on the day of the show. Accept CC# for a deposit and you're on your way! We booked 10 brides at our last show with full deposits. It does work! I can certainly share what has worked for us with you...simply give me a call.
877-373-9379
Robin
|
