One of the most powerful marketing tools for the floral industry is also one of the easiest to set up and use: Instagram. Some of the most powerful – and popular – Instagram floral accounts draw thousands of followers and showcase their creativity in amazing ways. Their stunning photography is the main draw, using beautiful backdrops and striking imagery. Soft colors, subtle lighting, abstract forms and textures show off their design talents, but they also actively engage their followers through comments and conversation about their flowers and designs.
With a few helpful tips we’ll share here, plus your own unique talents, you can create an Instagram account that will instantly improve your social media presence and in turn, increase your customers and sales.
Show Your Products, Don’t Sell Them
Being too much of a salesperson on Instagram can definitely hurt your following. Just don’t do it. Instead, use your profile as a portfolio that showcases your style, creativity and unique perspective. In short, just show the best version of what you create every day, and take the time to work out what story you want to tell through your photography. Do that, and you’ll start adding followers who love what you create.
Tell a Story with Every Arrangement
You can use Instagram to tell the story of every arrangement you sell, from the first snip of a stem all the way to the happy customer receiving their bouquet. Instagram’s “story” feature is perfectly suited for this purpose. It may take a bit of extra effort to shoot a series of photos from the start to the finish, but it can be well worth it when your customers like and share your story with their friends, who will then want to have that experience for themselves!
Build Your Social Network
Collaboration is key to a successful Instagram profile: hashtags and mentions go a long way to building a large social presence. Make sure you choose the best hashtags to attract the right audience to your floral account, and use them consistently. Also, make sure to mention customers, suppliers, and others you deal with daily. They, in turn, will help get your name out there and bring you more followers.
Don’t Give Up
When it comes to Instagram profiles, consistency and perseverance is key. Once you start your profile, keep adding new images regularly so that you keep interest high. If you can’t think of something to post one day, look around your neighborhood for things you can announce or share where you can also tie in your brand. Make Instagram part of your daily routine, so that you are adding new content on a regular basis. This is what will keep you fresh and current.
Instagram is a fabulous way to start sharing your creativity with the world. Enjoy it, have fun, and reap the benefits of a powerful social media presence!