Business Name & Location: Wedding Flowers by Helena, Warwick, Queensland, Australia
Website: http://weddingflowersbyhelena.com.au/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weddingflowersbyhelena
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weddingflowersbyhelena/
What was your previous line of work and why did you decide to pursue a career in the Wedding Industry?
Owned my first florist shop when I was 15. Sold that business 15 years ago. Since then I have had two children, been a Personal Trainer, Lifeguard, Swim Teacher, Teacher Aide and then an IT Technician.
I was working full time, plus have five kids in our blended family, and was starting my wedding business. I would start at 5am quite often to reply to emails and organise what I needed etc for my already booked weddings. Also setting up my website and other business tools (facebook, insta) all took time.
What is your typical day like?
I have now quit work (three weeks ago!) and am full time florist and wedding stylist! So there is not so much need to start so early! I work from home and so my website and facebook page are really important as these are my “shop front”. There is lots of time spent replying to brides and quoting for their wedding bouquets and other florals. The best time though is when I am actually doing their florals and decorating for their wedding.
What inspires you?
Most brides have photos that they have seen that they send me. Also Pinterest is great for inspo. Googling latest trends also helpful. I don’t have a specific place! Quite often I will get flowers (fresh or artificial) in and they will inspire me to create! I have always loved the saying “Life is not measured by the breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away”. I try to live with that in mind, personal life and professional. There isn’t much better than the moment when you deliver a brides bouquets on their wedding day and the intake of breath and look of delight and joy on their face when they first see them. It’s a wonderful feeling.
What are your favorite resources for your business?
Holstens.com.au – so much stuff that is perfect!
Koch.com.au – love love love
Swannagencies.com.au – silk flowers are amazing
Windragon.com.au – good prices for silk flowers
What advise would you give our recently graduated students just starting out in the industry?
It is hard work, but if you love it and have passion for what you do…well it’s not work at all! Remember to set goal and also be careful to not spend every waking hour “working”. Take time out for yourself and your family. Set times for replying to clients, otherwise you can find yourself chatting till all hours with them.
Spend time on your social media networks and create ads, this seems to be the best and cheapest way of advertising!
