Plant sleeves are designed to wrap greens and flowering plants. Sleeves are pulled down over a sleeving stand, and a plant is placed on the stand. Then the sleeve is pulled up around the plant, and the top of the sleeve is folded over. Plant sleeves can be paper or plastic, and they may be plain or as decorative as you want them. You may even have them custom designed with your shop's name and logo.
Clear bags allow customers to see the actual product. They are available in cellophane, plastic, and polypropylene. They come in a variety of sizes from small boutonnières to large wedding bouquets. They make very attractive packages, and they protect the flowers from the weather and from excessive handling.
Flower boxes can be white or colored cardboard or clear plastic. They are made in various sizes to fit the product, and they protect the flowers from crushing. Plastic boxes are more expensive than the cardboard, but you will find that the plastic boxes are more attractive and easier to work with. Usually, your clients will like them better also.
Stationary and Tags
When choosing stationary, remember that design is important. Design creates the image that your shop portrays to your customers. Your company stationary should have your shop's name, address, phone number, fax number, and email address (or web site). You need business size envelopes, statement envelopes, paper for business letters, and professional business cards.
Enclosure envelopes can be purchased with or without your company logo. Enclosure cards are available in packs of 50 or 100. You may want to order one design as your signature design, or you may prefer an assortment of designs for different events. Enclosure cards should always be included with your flower arrangements (especially funeral fkowers) and body flowers with the sender's information. They are held in place by cardettes, which are plastic forks with long handles. They are usually clear plastic and are available in different lengths.
Care and handling tags are preprinted and are available from most wholesalers for plants and flowers sold in florist shops. Including a care tag with your plant or arrangement adds just that extra touch that customers appreciate. Be sure to leave a delivery tag if your customer is not at home.
Ribbon
Satin acetate is the most commonly used ribbon in florist shops, and it is available in many colors and various widths referred to by numbers, such as #1, #1 1/2, #3, #5, #9, #40, #100, etc. You can get decorative prints and laces for wedding work and special occasions. Wired ribbon works well for loops and streamers. Flora Satin is better for funeral work and for other arrangements that will be placed outside, such as for outside weddings. The ribbon holds up better in various weather conditions, and it is less expensive. For other special effects, try paper ribbon.
Supplies and containers are basic ingredients of every arrangement. Florists must have a thorough understanding of the products used in designs, and the prices and quantities in which they are sold. Determining a shop's need for supplies and securing a knowledge of purchasing procedures may save a considerable amount of money and time and may greatly enhance the shop's success.
