Rose Parade Experience
Designing at One of the Most Prestigious Floral Events in the World
Each year on New Year’s Day, the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California brings together some of the most talented floral designers and elaborate creations in the country. For over 25 years, Michael Gaddie AIFD, CFD, KMF of Lloyd’s Florist has been part of this nationally recognized event, contributing to the design and installation of large-scale floral floats seen by millions.
A New Year’s Day Tradition of Floral Design
The Rose Parade is a long-standing New Year’s Day tradition known for its breathtaking floats, each created entirely from flowers and natural materials.
Every surface of each float is covered by hand using:
Fresh flowers
Seeds and grasses
Leaves and organic textures
No paint is used. Every detail is built from nature, making each float a true work of floral artistry.
A Recognized Leader in Floral Design
Michael Gaddie AIFD, CFD, KMF serves as a lead designer with AES Float Company, one of the premier float design teams involved in the Rose Parade.
Each year, he works alongside a team of top designers from across the country to bring large-scale concepts to life through detailed floral installation and design.
These floats are not only visually impressive, but also highly competitive.
In one recent year:
Multiple floats were designed, including major sponsors like UPS and Honda
The team earned nine awards
The UPS float received the Judges Award for outstanding floral design
This level of recognition reflects both the creativity and expertise required to design at this scale.
Designed Under Pressure, at an Incredible Scale
Unlike traditional events, Rose Parade floats are completed in just a matter of days.
Design teams arrive in late December and work through the end of the year to prepare for the New Year’s Day parade.
During that time:
Tens of thousands of stems are placed by hand
Large teams of designers and volunteers work together
Every detail is created with precision for national television
It is a level of scale and intensity that few design experiences can match.
A Collaboration of Top Designers
One of the most unique aspects of the Rose Parade is the opportunity to work alongside talented designers from across the country. Each brings their own techniques, creativity, and perspective, creating an environment of constant learning and inspiration. This experience continues to influence the work at Lloyd’s Florist, bringing new ideas, techniques, and design approaches back to Louisville.
From Pasadena to Louisville
While the Rose Parade takes place in California, the experience and expertise come home.
The same attention to detail, creativity, and large-scale design thinking is applied to:
Weddings and full event design
Corporate events and galas
Kentucky Derby parties and large-scale productions
Custom floral installations
It is one more way Lloyd’s Florist brings a higher level of design and experience to every client.
A Point of Pride, Shared with Our Clients
The Rose Parade is one of the most recognized floral events in the world.
Being part of it for over 25 years is something we are proud of, not just for the experience itself, but for what it allows us to bring back to the people and events we serve every day.
Experience the Difference
When you work with Lloyd’s Florist, you are working with a team that brings both local care and national-level experience to every design. We would love to help you create something meaningful and beautifully designed.