Flowers for every occasion! If this tag line has prompted you to start off a flower business of your own in Boston, then this article could as well be a gateway to your interesting journey into the world of flowers. To fully understand the essence of this combination between the flower center business and the city of Boston, let us divide the topic into two.
Boston’s Requirements:
The first part refers to the city’s set of rules and regulations that ought to be followed in order to set up a florist center business there. Like every other law-abiding city or state, the first rule of the game is to obtain requisite licenses, which in this case could include any of the following:
o If the idea is to grow woody plants, the Massachusetts Department of Food and Agriculture is to be contacted for the Agriculture Grower’s certificate.
o Alternatively, if you plan to sell woody plants, the same department issues an Agent’s certificate.
o If you plan to sell flowers on the sidewalk, obtain a Hawkers and Peddlers license from the Massachusetts Division of Standards.
Equipped with required licensing, the next step is to zero in on the location and accordingly seek location approvals and/or building permits from the Building Division of Boston’s Inspectional Services Department.
The next office to be visited is the Boston City Clerk’s office to complete the business certificate formalities. Once through, check with the City of Boston Assessing department for the list of applicable taxes. Be a good citizen and pay them all, otherwise, you know you are being watched.
Business Calls:
Finally, you are completely in the legal domain and have the full authorization in kitty to start up the flower center business in Boston. However, before you actually jump into the segment, there are still are few more important steps to take.
Are you ready with the business plan? Have you worked out the scale of activity and corresponding financial structures? Is the marketing pitch planned? These are just few of the vital questions that demand specific answers before you actually get started. The idea is to be prepared and planned.
Define the scope. For instance, if you are a beginner in the field, you can begin by assisting a professional. This training can give you much more information than any book or guide.
Once into your own setup, plan special codes for occasions. Add the personal touch and let your customers feel the warmth in your service. Be a part of as many exhibitions as possible. They improve your credentials. In addition to being artistic, do not ignore the importance of administration. Staffing, accounting, and stocking are important and must not be ignored.
Flowers are an enchanting occupation, and being in Boston helps. So just comply with the basic requirements and let your creativity flourishes.
