FLONZI Update

CUT FLOWER

FLONZI Update

10 May 2017

A Florists Passion

Joy Knight is the chair person of ‘FLONZI’ [Florists of NZ Inc] a not for profit incorporated society established in 2006 with the objectives of –

Promoting education, training and qualifications within floristry
To be a major voice in the flower industry with regard to floristry training & education.
Promoting apprenticeships in floristry through liaison with NZ providers of floristry and horticulture.

The ‘NZ Flower Growers Association’ is linked with FLONZI as the ‘flower sector’ of the RNZIH young horticulturalist of the year competition.

Joy has had 60 passionate years in the floristry industry. She describes her first experience in a Glasgow flower shop at the age of 15.

“ this amazing new look florist shop of its day, with massive windows and marble pedestals in an old red sand stone building in the better part of Glasgow. Looking through from the inside out to a typically inclement Scottish winter from a paradise of colour, scent and creativity was heavenly.”

After 6 months Joy received some pay and only achieved full pay after 12 months but she was an apprentice being trained and loved it. Before coming to NZ Joy also worked for a long established florist shop in Berkley square London.

Joy has these things to say for all those selling flowers on Mother’s Day-

“Consider the customer by listening carefully. Sell by colour and size, not price. Provide a warm and understanding smile to all mothers – gorgeous fresh flowers and plants bounteously wrapped can give lasting pleasure. Communicate with the customer and through that communication impart passion and pleasure and your customers will return time and time again.”

“Pass on to your apprentices not only the technology and skill they require but also the communication, passion and customer service that will ensure floristry survives.”

Joy is again involved in the ‘Apprentice Florist of the Year 2017’ , details of which are below.