If you enjoy creating your own flower arrangements and receive compliments on your projects, you'll likely succeed in selling artificial flower arrangements. With a bit of creativity, you can turn your hobby into a business. Selling artificial flower arrangements could give you an opportunity to make money while doing what you enjoy. However, it's important to follow the proper steps to conduct business legally.

Choose a location. Decide whether you’ll sell your flower arrangements from home or from a different venue. People often start working out of their basement or garage and then expand as the business grows. Others work from home and rent a storage unit for their supplies and inventory.

If you live in a state that collects sales tax, you’ll need to have a permit to collect the tax on your state's behalf. Submit your request with your State Comptroller’s Office, which requires you to provide the physical location of your business. In some states, the permit is free, while other states charge a fee. Business permit guidelines generally vary by state. Your Comptroller’s Office can inform you if you need other permits.

Request an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service online, via telephone or through the mail. Although not always necessary, if you plan to hire employees, you’ll need an EIN to report payroll taxes.

Build your inventory. Create a number of different designs to appeal to different preferences. For instance, use baskets to create arrangements for a variety of occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers or Valentine's Day. You can also make wreaths, table centerpieces and topiaries.

Market your flower arrangements. Contact local consignment stores, and consider selling your flower arrangements at flea markets, fairs and farmers' markets.

Increase your customer base with a website. Post pictures of the various designs along with their prices and brief descriptions. Consider taking custom orders. For example, a customer may like one of your designs, but need it in a different color.

List your flower arrangements for sale on sites such as Etsy, eBay or Amazon.

Tip

Be sure to keep accurate records of your sales for tax purposes. If you collect sales taxes, don’t forget to file and pay your taxes, generally on a quarterly basis.