Freelance Floristry: From Festivals to Five-Star Hotels
How I became a freelancer and the Pro's and Con's of what I do?
Today on the Flowerlogue…
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Ever wondered what it’s really like to freelance as a florist? In this week’s post, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes highs (and literal ladder climbs) of working on everything from flower festivals, to private events and weddings to five-star hotel installs. It’s not always pretty - but it’s never boring. From dawn starts to through-the-night installations, here’s what freelance floral life actually looks like.
How I Started as a Freelance Florist
Freelancing has become one of the most rewarding (and surprisingly consistent) parts of my floral business. When I launched Cerina Floral Atelier five years ago - six months into my floristry studies -I had no idea freelancing would shape so much of my journey.
Part of the Certificate III Floristry course at South Metro TAFE required 20 hours of work experience. So, I sent out emails to three florists. Just one replied - but it turned out to be the only one that mattered.
The reply came from Rebecca Const, founder of Fox & Rabbit, one of Perth’s premium florists. Funny twist? Rebecca had created a hanging installation for my husband’s 50th birthday - a marquee installation in our front yard. Not only did she remember the event, she remembered us. Rebecca kindly took me on for those 20 volunteer hours, and I’ve freelanced with her ever since. That one yes changed everything for me, and I’ll always be grateful.



I was 52 at the time - a true late bloomer in the floral world - and second oldest in the team (shout-out to one of the delivery ladies for keeping me from top spot). I wasn’t sure anyone would take on a beginner at that age, but Rebecca did.
The second person I freelance for is my former Head Lecturer Clement Lee from South Metro TAFE. I usually join him for weddings and large-scale installations at Crown Casino -especially for big moments like Melbourne Cup Week and Chinese New Year. My two bosses couldn’t be more different: one is a self-taught creative powerhouse and the other a fully certified florist with competition accolades who creates beautiful considered design. Their paths into floristry are completely different, and that’s exactly what I love about working with both of them. It keeps the work dynamic.
So What is Freelance Floristry?
Essentially, a floristry freelancer is paid an hourly rate to assist on large events -weddings, corporate events, flower festivals, hotel installations, expos, and more. I typically work with teams of 2–6 people on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The floral design and planning is completed all ahead of time by the lead florist. Flowers have arrived at the studio and when I arrive, I’m briefed on the style (with images and a timeline), and get to work.
These aren’t my designs. My job is to interpret the brief and follow the lead florist’s style. A good freelancer knows how to adapt - whether the look is sculptural, wild garden style, grouped and modern, or full of natives. Being able to work in someone else’s aesthetic is a skill I’ve really come to value.


Before a job, I’m sent the basics: where to be, when to be there, and what the event is. If it's a long day or in a remote location, I pack lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a hat. Sometimes I drive, especially if I’m transporting flowers or materials. I’ve climbed 12-foot ladders to hang blooms with fishing line, worked overnight decorating hotel lobbies for Christmas, and installed vases at sunrise in five-star hotels. Freelance life definitely keeps you on your toes.
Some venues such as casinos and stadiums require you to complete in-depth induction tests, high-vis vests, ID tags, and strict sign-in/out protocols. I also need to have my own business insurance in the event of a car accident or injury. I’m unable to share photos of what I’ve worked on with Fox & Rabbit, but the variety is huge: weddings, giant hotel vases, massive installations, corporate events, festivals including Gather a Floral Exhibition in 2023, Subi Blooms just this month and private parties - you name it. I love being part of a team where everyone brings their own flair, preferences, and shortcuts. We’re constantly learning from each other.
On a couple of jobs, I’ve been asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement - which means I can’t reveal who I’m flowering for, what the event is, or where it’s happening. Not ever. Not even the name of the dog trotting around the backyard while I’m arranging roses. These are the super-exclusive, ultra-private jobs. And while I wish I could share more, confidentiality comes first.


The Pro’s of Freelance Floristry
I choose when I freelance (which is usually when I’m not travelling).
I can work on high-budget, interesting jobs I wouldn’t attract on my own as a solo florist.
I get to flower for some pretty famous people (although unfortunately I don’t get to see them, as we finish our work and disappear quickly before the event starts).
I learn and am exposed to seasoned florists and other event professionals.
I’m involved in a wide range of styles, mechanics, and techniques.
When I flower I receive an hourly wage. I don’t need to advertise for work, book events months in advance, purchase flowers to make money. I just turn up on the day, no outlays.
The Con’s of Freelance Floristry
One of the few downsides is that, I don’t always like what I am creating. My design style doesn’t always align and my ethics regarding sustainability don’t always match. But this is work, and we don’t always necessarily like all that we do. But it is an opportunity to share my experience with no floral foam alternatives, unpainted flowers, no preserved flowers and locally grown blooms.
I don’t make as much money as I could if the work were my own job. My hourly rate would be double.
The work can be physically exhausting, the weather in Australia working outdoors can be brutal.
The Not-So-Glamorous Side
Standing back and seeing the finished event is always satisfying. Snapping that final photo and video and catching the professional shots on Instagram and the happy faces of clients is very rewarding. But trust me - freelance floristry is not all peonies and Pinterest.
I still scrub buckets, wash vases, condition stems, remove wax from candle sleeves, carry heavy loads, sweep floors, push trolleys, climb ladders, crush boxes, drive delivery vans, and light dozens of candles. I’ve spray-painted flowers, potted plants, emptied bins, bumped in, bumped out, and powered through midnight installs.
A florists job is simply to get the job done, whatever is required.
Broken nails, sore hands, and aching joints (especially at my age) are just part of the deal.
But Overall...
Yes, floristry is a beautiful art - but the work behind it? Not always. It’s physical. It's messy. Think water up your sleeves, roses that bite back, and buckets that weigh more than a gym session.
That dreamy moment at the workbench with a spinning turntable and a bucket of fluffy blooms? That’s about 50% of the job. The rest is sweat, strategy, and sometimes sunscreen. But honestly? I love that part too.
Follow me: on Instagram: Cerina Floral Atelier
Email me: hello@cerina.com.au
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This was such an interesting read! I don’t have much experience freelancing, but I can see the benefits. What a great way to learn different mechanics and skills, without the anxiety of wondering if it will work!
Very interesting to hear about your experiences in floristry. A rewarding work.