Nominations are now open for the 2025 BFA Industry Awards – and while it’s wonderful to have someone nominate you off their own back, there’s absolutely no shame in giving your customers, friends and followers a little encouragement.
Being nominated (and hopefully shortlisted!) can really raise your profile, boost your credibility, and help new customers feel even more confident choosing you. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to celebrate your hard work, your team, and your business journey so far.
If asking for nominations feels a little awkward, here are some simple, positive ways to go about it – without feeling like you’re shouting about yourself too much.
1. Let People Know
The truth is, if people don’t know the BFA Awards are open – and that you’d love their support – they can’t act! Sharing the news is your first important step. A quick post on your Instagram grid or Stories, a mention in your email newsletter, or even a little sign in your shop or studio can go a long way.
Keep your tone natural, friendly and light. Something like:
“We’ve been nominated before thanks to our amazing customers – if you love what we do and would like to nominate us for a 2025 BFA Award, we would be so grateful! Nominations are now open!”
Even if people don’t act immediately, you’ve planted the seed and that’s what matters.
2. Make It Easy
When you’re busy, even the smallest extra step can put you off taking action, and your customers are no different. The easier you make it for someone to nominate you, the more likely they are to do it.
Where you can, share the direct link to the nomination form (you’ll find it in our Latest News section!) and give a little context so it feels straightforward and doable. A gentle line like “It only takes two minutes!” or a suggestion of which category they might nominate you for can remove any obstacles and make it feel quick and simple.
3. Celebrate the Community
Rather than focusing just on yourself, you can frame nominations as part of a bigger celebration, recognising all the amazing people who make our industry special, customers included.
Remind your audience that awards like these are a chance to shine a spotlight on hardworking florists, freelancers, wholesalers, tutors and suppliers across the country. It’s about championing the whole floral community and saying thank you for the support that keeps independent businesses thriving.
This softer, collective message can feel more comfortable to share and shows that you’re proud to be part of something bigger than yourself.
4. Don’t Be Shy – Nominate Yourself!
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with putting yourself or your business forward for recognition. In fact, many of the best businesses do just that! You know the passion, hard work, and creativity that goes into what you do every day, so if you meet the criteria, go ahead and nominate yourself. It’s a positive step in owning your achievements and celebrating the contribution you make to the floristry industry.
5. Keep It Gracious
No matter the outcome, asking for nominations is about being proud of your work and connecting with your community and that’s always worth celebrating.
Thank your customers for simply supporting your business day-to-day, whether or not they decide to nominate. And if you do get nominated (hooray!), don’t forget to share the news with genuine gratitude because the more you bring your supporters on the journey, the more invested they’ll feel in your success.
Feeling inspired?
You’ll find the nomination link and full details over on the Latest News section of our website or click HERE. Remember, nominations close at 5pm on Tuesday 27th May 2025 so don’t leave it too late!
