GUYANA has a wide variety of creative professionals; from actors, writers, and directors, to web and graphic designers, photographers, fashion designers, dancers and singers/ songwriters.
Also included in this list are floral designers, more commonly called, florists. Those women (or men), arrange artificial or real flowers in ways that catch the eyes of wandering customers; and while Guyana has many of them, none are anything like the other.

Shari Singh, the Chief Executive Officer of Florals by Shari, known as FBS, is a local business that is still growing. It offers a wide array of floral arrangements, gift baskets, floral décor and money bouquets. And the line continues to expand toward new products and services.

Singh said, “I am the youngest person in Guyana in my profession (floristry). My arrangements are always done with a twist, I add butterflies, chocolates & even themed items to suit the occasion; For example, a mini graduation cap to a bouquet for a graduating student.”

Singh noted that FBS was established on Valentine’s Day, 2021. Because this was around the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, FBS was established so that Singh could have cared for her daughter who was born two years prior.

She said, “I decided to invest some money & start something at home. Persons needed flowers for so many different occasions, it was perfect.”

Some services provided by Florals by Shari include: fresh & artificial flower arrangements, floral headbands, floral backdrops, floral frames, floral letters & number marquee, money bouquets chocolate bouquets, and finally, gift baskets for all occasions (valentine’s, Easter, Halloween, Christmas, etc.)

Among these services is small-scale event planning. She explained, “Persons would often hire me to decorate hotel or apartment rooms for romantic occasions such as anniversaries, proposals, and I have worked with a business to plan & execute their brunch.”

Singh acknowledged that it was through the use of technology that she had access to learning new techniques & inspire new ideas on how to perfect her craft.
“From new wrapping methods, to what flowers to pair, how to maintain the freshness of flowers etc.”
She noted that social media has also played a role in her being able to register her business on Google.

“So, when someone goes there looking for florists, FBS will pop up. I also use Facebook & Instagram ads to reach more potential customers.”
Asked what advice she has for persons who may be interested in starting their own businesses, Singh said, “Put God first, allow him to give you your business idea and he will provide you with your customers. Develop your business plan. Do research on your market. Ensure you’re passionate about what you want to do, even if you aren’t perfect at [it]; You can work on perfecting your craft.”

She emphasized that some businesses may start off slowly; however, remaining consistent, advertising as much as possible and networking with other business owners are the ways to go.
“Always be ‘business card ready.’ Always be prepared to pitch your business, and lastly, never underestimate the person you’re talking to about your business, you never know who is an undercover investor!” Singh added.

Singh also does giveaways as a way of giving back to her supporters, and as a form of encouragement for new supporters, and dedicates a percentage of her profits to charity.
Persons interested in utilizing the services offered by Florals by Shari can contact them on WhatsApp or call (+592)636-4829. Florals by Shari is also available on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok @FloralsbyShari. They are also located on the East Bank of Demerara.

Delivery services are available around Georgetown, to Linden & Berbice.