As a former professional conference organiser who worked with associations, I’m well aware that there is an organisation and association to support all areas of life and business. It can be quite fascinating!
The Call
I got a call from Sinead Kieran recently, who told me that she and Fionnuala McAuley were filling a gap that they’d identified in the market.
There was no association or training entity focussed on helping florists in Ireland. Not ones to sit on their laurels, they decided to be a part of founding a Skillnet for this very purpose.
The Institute of Flowers (IOF) was born from a simple observation: Ireland’s 1,000+ professional florists lacked a unified voice. Launched in early 2024, the aim is to be the collective voice of Irish florists, supporting and elevating the industry through regular events, training, accreditation programmes, and nationwide competitions.
Introducing the Institute of Flowers
The Institute of Flowers (IOF) is a not-for-profit organisation, led by a dedicated board of professionals who are passionate about advancing the floristry industry in Ireland.
Founded and supported by Sinead Kiernan and Fionnuala McAuley, the IOF is supported by a diverse board comprising Lamber De Bie, Karen Massey, Ann Marie Grant, Judi Roche, and JP Tanner.
Together, they work to foster collaboration, innovation, and growth within the floristry community, ensuring the IOF serves as a valuable resource for all florists across the country.
About the IOF
Launched in 2024, the Institute of Flowers (IOF) is the only association for Ireland’s professional florists cultivating excellence across the sector.
The IOF is the collective voice of Irish florists and advocates for a vibrant, scalable, future-proofed sector.
The Institute provides members with resources, training and networking opportunities to support upskilling within the sector and elevate local, Irish floristry businesses.
The IOF was launched in October 2024 and operates on an annual membership basis.
Their Purpose: Encouraging Growth and Excellence
At The Institute of Flowers (IOF), they are driven by community, collaboration, and creativity. They believe in supporting each other to learn, grow, and thrive, fostering a collective spirit that elevates the entire floristry industry in Ireland. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and professional development, they are committed to nurturing talent, embracing eco-conscious practices, and creating a stronger, more vibrant future for all florists.
Membership Benefits
Joining The Institute of Flowers (IOF) opens the door to exclusive opportunities designed to help your floristry business thrive.
As a member, you’ll gain access to industry-leading workshops, networking events, and valuable resources tailored to your growth. Whether you’re looking to expand your skills with floristry techniques, business training or connect with fellow professionals, our membership provides the tools and community support you need to succeed.
Additionally, IOF members enjoy enhanced visibility through our online directory and social media channels, boosting your SEO and helping potential clients find your business. Become part of a flourishing network today and take your floristry to the next level.
- Monthly webinar
- Template library
- Exclusive training offers
- Supplier discounts
- Access to Mentors
- Access to our business series
- Annual Awards
- Nationwide Competition
- National Marketing Program
- Access to a community Forum and Support
- A Community Voice
- Share your story on our Podcast
Training
The training offered is a clear incentive to join the Institute of Flowers today. Courses range from 1 day at €250 per person, up to €800 for in depth training academy for aspiring and scaling florists.
Investment
For a mere €250 per annum, the Institute of Flowers offers great value membership for the floral community, particularly those wishing to flourish and blossom. (all puns intended)
The Institute is currently expanding and has big plans, so not all of the elements are up and running, but watch this space.
For now, you can follow them on their socials or reach out to Sinead and Fionnuala to find out more:
If this network might be useful to someone you know who is working in the floral and flower industry, why not pass the link to them and #payitforward.
As always, reach out to me at jean@networkingjean.ie if you’ve a network you think should get a showcase opportunity and be on people’s radars!
Jean Evans is an expert on all things networking. It is her passion; one that is borne out of experience and plenty of trial and error, mistakes and mishaps. Through her blogs, podcasts and social media channels, Jean shares tips, techniques and ideas on how to become a confident networker in business and professionally.