Retailers elevate designs and business skills at SAF’s 1-Day Profit Blast

When Jeena Saunders of Park Florist attended the Society of American Florists' 1-Day Profit Blast on March 15, she didn't just pick up a few tips. She discovered fresh design techniques and business ideas she's eager to bring to the Takoma Park, Maryland, shop.

She was particularly inspired by the arrangements that were part of Carol Inskeep Proulx's "Heartfelt Designs, Smart Business: Elevating Your Sympathy Work" session.

"I have never seen anyone do anything similar," says Saunders. "These new techniques will only enhance the quality of product we're able to offer our customers."

Saunders was one of 121 attendees who benefited from education sessions that in addition to sympathy designs focused on improving profits, building a strong company culture and designing and pricing floral installations.

"Each presentation had nuggets of information that were useful or reminders of wise business practices — ways to elevate sympathy work with the double-layer foam forms, setting goals and blocking off time for yourself, and ways to build a culture and strengthen a team," says Angela Rabena of Etten's Eden in The Plains, Virginia. "Some of the information reinforced practices already in place and made me feel good about the way I have been running my business."

Attendees also met with vendors as part of the Supplier Showcase. Profit Blast was sponsored by Smithers-Oasis and Potomac Floral Wholesale in Silver Spring, Maryland, which also hosted the event.

© Society of American FloristsCarol Inskeep Proulx AIFD, CFD, CEJ, shared techniques at SAF's 1-Day Profit Blast that blend artistry with efficiency to help florists create meaningful tributes while strengthening their business.

Theresa Morone of Floral Accents traveled from New York to attend Profit Blast because she enjoys going to different environments to meet new people in the industry.

"When you stick to your immediate area, it is too easy to stick with your own crowd," says Morone. "Going outside your area forces you to introduce yourself, talk more and mostly ask more questions. I also find that most people are more open when they don't see you as possible competition."

Morone was also happy that the Profit Blast was scheduled after Valentine's Day and before Easter and prom season, making it particularly attractive and easy to step away from her business.

"Continuing education is always a must if you want to grow professionally and personally," she says. "Profit Blast is a terrific opportunity to break the routine of day-to-day business and get yourself out of your own comfort zone."

SAF's next 1-Day Profit Blast is Nov. 1 in Milford, Connecticut.