Behind the Blooms: 24th Year Designing for the Rose Parade
For over two decades, Michael Gaddie, owner of Lloyd’s Florist in Louisville, KY, has been part of one of the most iconic floral events in the world, the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. Held every New Year’s Day (or January 2nd if the holiday falls on a Sunday), this prestigious event features floats crafted entirely from flowers and organic materials. Michael’s role as a lead designer is both an honor and a testament to his unmatched expertise in floral artistry.
What Is the Rose Parade?
The Rose Parade is a celebration of creativity and beauty, featuring a stunning procession of floats, marching bands, and equestrian units. Each float is a masterpiece, covered entirely in flowers, seeds, grasses, and other natural materials. The event is nationally televised, showcasing the extraordinary talent and teamwork that go into every design.
Michael’s Role in the Rose Parade
As a lead designer for AES Float Company, one of the largest float builders in the parade, Michael plays a pivotal role in bringing these floral marvels to life. This year, his team worked on 16 floats, including the UPS float and the Honda float, which served as the opening float of the parade. Out of the 12 judgeable floats his company designed, an impressive nine won awards, including the Judges’ Award for Outstanding Use of Floral Product on the UPS float.
The scale of the work is staggering. Each float requires tens of thousands of floral stems; Michael’s team alone worked with over 50,000 stems on some floats. The UPS float base was adorned with an astonishing 55,000 roses.
The Intense Timeline
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the tight timeframe. Designers and volunteers begin their work on December 26th, just days before the parade. Flowers arrive in carefully labeled buckets, and teams are responsible for prepping, arranging, and attaching every bloom and material. By December 31st, the floats are ready to roll.
“Nothing on the float can be painted; it all has to be covered in natural materials,” Michael explains. This includes everything from sesame seeds and shredded grasses to bear grass and Scotch broom, all meticulously applied by hand.
Collaboration and Camaraderie
One of the aspects Michael treasures most about his involvement in the Rose Parade is the opportunity to work with other talented designers from across the country. “You think you know it all after decades in the business, but there’s always something new to learn,” he shares. This year, he learned a unique technique for shaping rose petals from a designer he met for the first time, a testament to the collaborative spirit of the event.
The experience also brings together volunteers from all walks of life, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, cheerleading teams, and more, who help with the intricate work of covering floats with organic materials. “The energy and excitement they bring make it so rewarding,” Michael says
A National Stage for Floral Artistry
The Rose Parade isn’t just a celebration of flowers; it’s a massive marketing platform. Companies invest heavily in their floats, with some costing nearly a million dollars. These floral masterpieces aren’t just seen by parade-goers in Pasadena; they’re broadcast to millions across the country, putting the artistry of designers like Michael in the national spotlight.
Looking Ahead to the 25th Year
As Michael prepares for his 25th year at the Rose Parade in 2025, he reflects on the incredible journey. From the friendships formed to the lessons learned, the experience continues to inspire his work at Lloyd’s Florist. “Being part of something so grand and nationally recognized is an honor,” he says. “It pushes me to bring that same level of excellence to every wedding and event we design.”
What This Means for Lloyd’s Florist Clients
Michael’s experience at the Rose Parade translates into unparalleled expertise for his clients. Whether he’s crafting a bridal bouquet, a ceremony arch, or a reception centerpiece, his attention to detail and passion for floral design shine through. At Lloyd’s Florist, clients can expect creativity, precision, and the kind of excellence that wins awards, on floats and in life.
Get Inspired
Want to see more? Visit our gallery to explore stunning floral designs or schedule a consultation to bring your vision to life with Lloyd’s Florist.
Ready to Work with an Award-Winning Designer?
Contact Lloyd’s Florist today to start planning your dream wedding or event. With Michael’s expertise and a dedicated team, we’re here to make your floral dreams come true