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If you are a small business owner, or have worked in a small business, I am sure you can agree that the environment was DIFFICULT in 2024! Inflation pressures, changes in consumer spendings, supply changes and disruptions, labour shortages and the inefficiencies of higher wage costs vs employee competence, all contributed to a year full of trials and tribulations in the retail world. Notably so, as a floristry business owner, where logistics and minimal profit margins are always a challenging part of running a successful business, 2024 was a struggle!! However, the businesses that survived and thrived all had a particular skill set in common, RESILIENCE  But what does RESILIANCE in business even mean? Well, Resilience means embracing failure as part of the journey, not as the end. It means learning from tough times, staying focused on our goals, and finding innovative ways to move forward. Every challenge we face is an opportunity to grow stronger, wiser, and more determined.   Now I am sorry if you are offended by curse words... however, this florist mumma is a bit of a potty mouth, I am about to use a big bad one, the "C" word.... COVID!! As a business owner or employee did you have to or choose to pivot your business, your ambitions or your dreams in COVID???  Well, do you know what that took? It took a hell of a lot of RESILIANCE!! Although through some gritted teeth and most definitely alot of tears we all proved to ourselves how strong and resiliant we really are. As business owners, we often face unique challenges. However, for me personally and alot of the business owners I am lucky to be surrounded and supported by, the life of women in business can be particularly challenging!! From balancing family responsibilities to breaking through barriers in male-dominated industries, our road is rarely easy but resilience really is our super power.  Since COVID there has been a 24% rise of women directors, founders, co-founders, managers and just general kick ass passionate women, and that is three times the amount of our beautiful (however generally speaking, differently experienced) counterparts 😉 Women standing up to do what we really love, in my experience, are the heart centre of the business community. #yeahthegirls 💪🏼 In small business, the challenges may seem overwhelming at times, but with resilience, we turn obstacles into stepping stones. To stay resiliant in these trying times, we need to learn to lean on the controllables within our own individual frameworks. And once we feel back in control, we lean back out because outside of our framework, that is where the real magic and GROWTH really does happen!!  It is normal to sometimes feel out of control, stuck and defeated in business, but by grounding ourselves and leaning into our RESILIANCE we become not just survivors but leaders, we inspire others to push through their own difficulties and WE create OUR OWN path to success. So, let’s continue to support and empower one another, knowing that with resilience, there is no limit to what we can achieve in 2025 and beyond. The team at The Real Florist looks forward to doing it with all of you! 💐❤️ #resilianceinbusiness #smallbusiness #floristry #floristrybusiness #floristcoach

How to get the most out of your flower budget If you're looking to make the most out of your flower budget, there are several tips and tricks you can use to get the most bang for your buck.  Here are our top suggestions: Shop in season : Flowers that are in season are generally less expensive and easier to find. Do some research on what flowers are in season during the time you need them and choose those, or be directed by your florist, have a concept in mind and let them direct you to the best flower choices to match your concept. Don't overlook foliage : Adding foliage to your floral arrangements can help fill them out and make them look fuller. Look for inexpensive greenery options like eucalyptus or Italian ruscus. Consider non-traditional flowers : Instead of going for the classic roses or lilies, consider using non-traditional flowers like wildflowers or succulents. These can often be less expensive and add a unique touch to your arrangements. Use flowers as dual-purpose decor : If you're using flowers at your ceremony, for example an arbor piece, consider using those flowers as reception decor as well. Assign someone the job of moving your flowers from the ceremony to the reception Repurpose flowers : After your wedding day, gift your flowers to the Mother of the Groom, Mother of the Bride and other significant guests as a special gift or dry them out for a long-lasting display in your home. Shop around and do your research : Don't be afraid to compare prices at different florists. Do not ask florists to compete against others' quotes, but don't be afraid to do your research, compare the pricing and make your own decisions. Make your own bouquets : maybe your florist of choice offers a Bridal Bouquet Arranging workshop, like The Real Florist Bouquet Class. Gather your bride tribe, break open the bubbly and be guided by a qualified florist to create your own bridal bouquet. Ready to talk all things wedding, budget and flowers - get in touch today to meet with The Real Florist Wedding Consultant.

Flowers have an innate ability to captivate us with their vibrant colors, delicate petals, and enchanting fragrances. As a florist, we understand the profound impact that flowers can have on special moments in life. Whether you're celebrating a joyous occasion or conveying heartfelt condolences, the right bouquet can speak volumes. The Language of Flowers Did you know that flowers have their own language? Dating back to the Victorian era, each flower carries symbolic meanings that can add depth and sentiment to your message. For instance, roses symbolize love and passion, while lilies signify purity and virtue. Understanding these meanings can help you craft a bouquet that conveys exactly what you want to say. Choosing the Right Flowers When selecting flowers, consider the occasion and the recipient's preferences. Are you celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or graduation? Perhaps you're sending get-well wishes or expressing sympathy. Different flowers evoke different emotions, so it's essential to choose blooms that align with the sentiment you wish to convey. For romantic gestures, roses are timeless classics that never fail to impress. Their velvety petals and sweet fragrance speak of love and admiration. For a friend or colleague, cheerful sunflowers or vibrant daisies can brighten their day and spread positivity. Arrangements that Speak Volumes At The Real Florist Albury, we specialize in creating stunning floral arrangements that tell a story. From elegant bouquets to intricate centerpieces, each arrangement is crafted with care and creativity. Our skilled florists combine different blooms, textures, and colors to create harmonious designs that leave a lasting impression. Consider the season when choosing your flowers. Spring brings a burst of tulips, and daffodils, while summer boasts an array of roses, peonies, and hydrangeas. Fall's rich hues of chrysanthemums, dahlias, and sunflowers add warmth and depth to any arrangement. For Australia's winter, embrace the elegance of native blooms like banksias, kangaroo paws, and waratahs, along with imported flowers such as orchids. Beyond Blooms: Personal Touches Enhance your floral gift with thoughtful additions such as a handwritten note, a box of gourmet macarons, or a locally made candle. These personal touches show that you've put extra thought into creating a meaningful and memorable gift. Expert Advice and Care Tips Once you've chosen the perfect bouquet, it's important to ensure it stays fresh and vibrant. Our florists are here to provide expert advice on flower care, including tips on watering, trimming stems, and displaying arrangements to maximize their beauty and longevity. Celebrate Every Moment with Flowers Whether you're celebrating a milestone, expressing gratitude, or offering comfort, flowers are a timeless way to convey emotions and create cherished memories. At The Real Florist Albury, we're dedicated to helping you find the perfect flowers for every occasion. Explore our collection of exquisite blooms and discover how flowers can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Let us help you celebrate life's special moments with the beauty of nature's finest creations. Visit www.therealflorist.com.au today and let the journey into the world of flowers begin. Embrace the beauty, express your emotions, and make every occasion unforgettable with flowers from The Real Florist Albury

Why don’t we offer one on one workshops? Why are our workshops always groups of like minded people gathering together to learn new skills and grow? Group learning has numerous benefits that can greatly enhance the learning experience. One of the most significant benefits is the opportunity for students to learn from each other. Collaborating with peers can lead to a deeper understanding of the subject matter, as students share their perspectives and insights. This process can also help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Another advantage of group learning is the opportunity for students to develop social skills and have fun doing so! By working with others, students can improve their communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities. These skills are valuable not only in the classroom but also in the workplace and in life. Group learning can also promote a sense of community and support among students. It can create a positive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and seeking feedback. This can lead to increased motivation and engagement, as students feel more connected to their learning and their peers. Finally, group learning can be a more efficient use of time and resources. Rather than relying solely on the teacher for instruction, students can help each other and work collaboratively to achieve learning objectives. This can save time and allow for a more personalized and student-centered approach to learning. Overall, group learning has a multitude of benefits for students, including enhanced learning outcomes, social skill development, community building, and efficient use of time and resources. So get your people together, gather in our beautiful workshop space and learn a beautiful new skill together!

At The Real Florist Albury, we understand the importance of commemorating a loved one's life with dignity and grace. Our funeral flower offerings are meticulously crafted to reflect the unique spirit and essence of those we hold dear. ​ Our Offerings Include: ​ 1. Sympathy Wreaths: Elegant and solemn, our sympathy wreaths are crafted with care, using a selection of serene blooms and greens. They serve as a poignant tribute to the memory of your loved one. ​ 2. Casket Sprays and Covers: Designed to adorn and honor, our casket sprays and covers are created with the utmost respect and attention to detail. Each arrangement is tailored to convey comfort and solace during this difficult time. ​ 3. Floral Arrangements: From traditional arrangements to custom designs, our floral experts will work closely with you to create a tribute that resonates with the personality and life of your loved one. ​ Why Choose Us? Personalised Service: We understand that every tribute is unique. Our team is dedicated to listening to your preferences and ensuring that every detail is meticulously executed. Quality and Care: Using only the freshest flowers and finest materials, we guarantee that each arrangement meets our high standards of quality and craftsmanship. Compassionate Support: We are here to support you during this emotional journey. Our compassionate staff will guide you through the process, offering empathy and understanding every step of the way. Contact Us For more information about our funeral flower offerings or to discuss your specific needs, please contact us at 0498 661 091 or therealflorist@gmail.com. Let us help you honor your loved one with dignity and beauty through our thoughtful floral arrangements. ​ At The Real Florist, we are honored to be a part of your journey of remembrance and tribute. Albury Funeral Flowers

It looks like the La Niña weather is here for a little while longer (as if the last few years were not unpredictable enough). It is hitting our Riverina area with flooding and unpredictable weather conditions. So it is a timely reminder to have a 'just in case' wet weather plan with your vendors for your big day!! Here are a few things to think about when making your wet weather plan. Your Vendors It is always important to choose people you trust when picking your vendors for your big day. We don't want to rain on your parade, we want to make your wedding dreams come true!! Pick people you not only like the work of, but that you trust!! A good vendor will open these kind of difficult conversations with you, not to dampen the mood (see what I did there) but because they care, and they want to know you trust them make the best decisions on your behalf! Your vendors put their love, sweat and tears into making sure your day is as beautiful as you dreamed, but rain can cause ALOT of damage to their work. Imagine what the rain will do to that wooden Arbour you hired from Snichol's Custom Event Hire, Ceremonies By Tam's electrical goods or the photographer's very expensive camera's - Capture By Karen, Natasha Larsen Photography, Meg Gibbs Photography and Rachael Emmily Photography would all be very unforgiving should their equipment be damaged. From a florists perspective, months of planning and work have gone into making your beautiful arrangements, but the damage that rain will cause will mean your beautiful fresh designs end up bruised, broken and not a true representation of their work. The location Of course we all LOVE an outdoor wedding along the river banks like at Redbank Events or Banyandah on The Murray, a beautiful vineyard like Cofield's Winery or Corowa Whiskey Factory and of course we all want your day to go AS PLANNED outside in the wilderness, but think about the logistics of getting to the venue in the rain. Also THE GROUND!! What about the mud, THE MUD!! On your beautiful dress!!! What if you or someone you love slipped in the mud (Although it could make for some funny memories in hindsight) it may not be funny at the time! Don't even get me started on the bugs that the wet weather brings, who wants mosquitos on their wedding day!!!?? Your guests Where will they park? What will they wear? Did the pay to get their make up done? Is it safe for them to access? Will they have to track through the mud in their fancy shoes? What about Nanna?? "Won't someone please think of the children!" Your LOVE This is the most important factor!! It is important to remember WHY you are getting married, (we would hope it's not for some beautiful aesthetically pleasing social media posts, although they are a given). It is for the love you have for one another, and no matter rain, you are going to weather every one of life's moments together from this day forward, and this day is about celebrating that... (See what I did there?) If we have a secondary plan in place and you trust your team to make the best decisions possible then a little damp weather will not dampen the mood!! Keep an eye on the weather patterns in the lead up, keep the communication open and your wedding will all be just as beautiful as planned we promise!! We are here for all your wedding planning, we love a good chat, a coffee and a pun so pop on in and see us at the real florist for all your wedding planning fun!! Book your wedding consult with us now. With Love, The Real Florist Team P.S - Check out these amazing images from one of our beautiful wedding in March 2022 along the riverbanks... That is now completely under water!!

We want to bring all your wedding dreams to life. We want to meet you, get to know who you are, your personalities and share in the excitement of your big day. It is about collaboration, Imagination, combined with skill, experience and knowledge getting to be by your side watching the vision come to life is the VERY BEST PART of the creative processes when planning your wedding!! We start off as vendors... And are left with a lifetime of friendship, love and memories The Real Florist is all about the personal touch we can add to your wedding day, each wedding consultation is personalised to every individual couple Book your wedding consultation and let us get to know you whilst we plan the wedding of your dreams

What do wedding flowers cost? Great question! The no BS answer is, it completely depends on YOU! What is your vision? What do you hold value in? How important to you are flowers at your wedding? Every 12 months or so we revisit this subject, and every time the industry has seen massive changes. The cost of living continues to go up so we want to ensure that you have options for your big day. You want magic?! We have been living for this moment and we want to deliver. All our hard work, the hours, the knowledge, passion, connections and creativity have lead us to you! We want to make all your floral dreams come to life. Be prepared for your budget to start from at least $5,000 and beyond. Time, experience and the dream is what you are investing in. Want to create amazing memories? Maybe a little DIY is your style? Well, we have the most amazing experience for you. Our hands on, interactive wedding class is designed for people just like you. One of our experienced staff will build your wedding bouquet while you and your wedding team follow along! This is soo much fun and one of our favourite things to offer brides. All your flowers can be ready for you to take and install yourself and because you do not require us to be on site to set up, you can save yourself some money - who doesn't love that! We would suggest you set yourself a budget of $3,000-$5,000. Don't care much for flowers? There is so much more to your marriage and wedding than flowers! We can create something simple and you can invest your money elsewhere! We would suggest you set aside $1,000-$2,000.00 in your budget and work from that. Thinking an elopement is more your style? We are here for you! Intimate elopements with The Real Florist is your small wedding one stop shop. Starting from $900 you can get married, in and out in two hours, including the venue hire! A few things to remember when budgeting for your wedding day: The bigger the bridal party, the bigger the budget needs to be. It is your day, remember to keep it that way!! Your wedding vendors have a wealth of knowledge not only in what they do, but as well as other vendors and collaborators, so ask ALL THE QUESTIONS! We are here to support you, every step of the way. To book your no obligation free consultation, follow the link below.

Why are locally grown flowers so special and why should we support them you ask? The answer is simple flower lovers!! By choosing locally grown flowers,we're supporting our local economy. This helps maintain a thriving community and promotes the growth of small businesses that rely heavily on customers like you. Fresh farm flowers are often more vibrant, fragrent and fresher than mass-produced or imported ones!! Not to mention you are reducing the economic footprint from farm to door!! Flowers have long-term positive effects on people's moods (read our blog on flowers and mental health here 💐) We are not the only ones who bennifit! The bees, butterflies and birds in the fields really enjoy the diversity too. Those winged friends go on to pollinate nearby food crops, keeping our ecosystem healthy and our tables full. So next time you're looking for a gift or simply want to brighten up your day with some beautiful blooms, remember to support your local florists who support local growers!! They are not only a great way to express your love,but also a way to make our planet and our local economy greener.

When it comes to planning a wedding, choosing the right vendors can make all the difference in ensuring that your big day is everything you've dreamed of. For most people, until it comes to your wedding, you have never planned a wedding before, and we have found it can all be a little overwhelming and daunting. At The Real Florist, we wanted to ensure you feel supported so here few key things to consider when selecting your wedding vendors: Experience: Look for vendors who have a proven track record of success and plenty of experience in their field. Ask to see examples of their work, read reviews from past clients, and check out their portfolio to get a sense of their style and capabilities. Communication: Good communication is key when working with wedding vendors. Make sure that they are responsive to your inquiries, easy to get in touch with, and willing to listen to your ideas and concerns. Flexibility: Wedding plans can change quickly, and you'll want vendors who are able to adapt and be flexible if needed and within reason. It is important to note here, that you are likely not their only couple and you may need to be flexible to some extent.. Look for vendors who are willing to work with you to create a custom package or make changes to their services as needed. Professionalism: Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and you'll want vendors who will treat it as such. Look for vendors who are punctual, well-prepared, and who have a professional demeanor. Collaboration: You want your day to run smoothly and stress free for you, choose wedding vendors who are open to collaboration with other vendors, where they can work together to bring your dream day to life. Value: While you certainly don't want to skimp on quality when it comes to wedding vendors, you also don't want to overspend. Look for vendors who offer good value for their services and who are transparent about their pricing. Availability: Make sure the vendors you're considering are available on your wedding date. You might fall in love with a vendor's work, but if they're not available on your wedding day, they won't be able to help you bring your vision to life. Personality: You'll be spending a lot of time with your vendors on your wedding day, so it's important that you get along well with them. Choose vendors who have a friendly, positive attitude and who you feel comfortable communicating with. Referrals: Don't hesitate to ask for referrals from friends, family, or your wedding planner. They may have worked with vendors in the past that they can recommend based on their positive experiences. 9. Contracts: Make sure that each vendor you select provides a detailed contract outlining the services they'll be providing, the payment schedule, and any other important details. This will help ensure that both you and the vendor are on the same page and that there are no surprises on your wedding day. Backup Plans: While you hope that everything will go smoothly on your wedding day, it's always a good idea to have backup plans in case of unexpected issues. Ask your vendors what their backup plans are in case of equipment failure, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances. This will help put your mind at ease and ensure that your wedding day runs as smoothly as possible. By taking the time to meet with multiple wedding vendors, you can then carefully select your you would like to work with based on these key points. You'll be able to relax and enjoy your big day knowing that you've chosen the best of the best to help bring your vision to life.

Floristry is not just about arranging flowers, it's about creating connections that can last a lifetime. There is no better feeling as a wedding florist than when a couple you have spent months planning their wedding with, come back to share their wedding album with you, or other exciting life accomplishments. At The Real Florist we are proud owners of Albury Wodonga's first florist cafe, and by simply memorizing regular customer's coffee orders, we as florists, often become an integral part of our customer's lives. It's not uncommon for a quick chat in the supermarket to turn into a catch-up session with a former wedding client or everyday customer. The ethos we have here at the The Real Florist is "We have a REAL passion for flowers and a REAL talent for making floral creations that truly reflect and connect with the REAL people they have been made for." ~Renee Williams These connections are what make floristry such a unique and rewarding profession. Despite the challenges of running a florist business, the joy and satisfaction of seeing the impact that your work has on people's lives is priceless. It's a reminder that the beauty of flowers goes far beyond their aesthetic appeal. Our team would LOVE to make ever lasting memories with you, and you can book your complimentary wedding consultation here And have you heard about our Bridal Bouquet Class OH, IT IS SO SPECIAL! There is no bonding experience like learning how simple and fun it can be to create your own unique bouquets with your own individual style. It is a concept I developed at my own wedding! I gathered my bride tribe and we made our own bouquets together, the night before the big day. Their excitement and pride to he walking down the aisle with what they had created was simply the BEST and some of my favourite memories from the day were made. The relationship we now build with our wedding parties is so special. It is that next level of personal detail, connection and an added memory that is unlike any other experience. If you want to get a glimpse into the wonderful world of floristry, come join us for one of floristy workshops There is so much to LOVE about the connections of floristry and as Confucius says "Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”

Flowers have been known to have a positive impact on mental health. Research has shown that exposure to flowers can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The colors and fragrances of flowers have a calming effect on the mind, improving mood and boosting overall well-being. Flowers also have the ability to promote feelings of happiness, positivity, and emotional warmth. Having a bouquet of flowers in your home or workplace can create a sense of tranquility and promote a more peaceful atmosphere. In short, flowers are a simple yet powerful way to improve mental health and enhance overall quality of life. In addition to all the benefits mentioned above, here are a few more ways in which flowers can positively impact mental health: Engaging with nature: Flowers are a way to connect with nature, even if you don't have access to outdoor spaces. This connection can help reduce feelings of isolation and promote a sense of calm. Creativity and mindfulness: Arranging and caring for flowers can be a creative and meditative activity. It allows you to be present in the moment and focus on the task at hand, which can be a helpful way to reduce stress and anxiety. Social connections: Giving or receiving flowers can be a way to strengthen social connections and express emotions. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with social anxiety or have difficulty expressing their feelings.Flowers say what words can not always say. Overall, incorporating flowers into your daily life can be a simple yet effective way to support mental health and well-being. Whether you choose to buy a bouquet for yourself or give one to a loved one, the benefits of flowers are worth exploring.