GADSDEN, Ala. — Shannon Rollins, owner of The Lily Pad Florist in Gadsden, has been selected to represent the State of Alabama at the upcoming Mid America Cup floral competition in Arkansas, one of the industry’s most prestigious events.
Rollins has been crafting floral arrangements for more than 20 years, building a reputation for artistry that doesn’t just fill a room, but transforms it. Since opening The Lily Pad Florist in 2014, she has been named “Best Florist” year after year and has become a trusted name for weddings, events, and everyday celebrations.
Her award-winning designs have earned national attention, including a feature on the cover of Wedding Belle magazine. She has also received the Green Sweepstakes Ribbon, the highest honor in floral design, as well as a Blue Ribbon for second place in the floral tablescape category from the Northeast Alabama Federation Flower and Garden Club competition.
Beyond her personal achievements, Rollins is passionate about sharing her knowledge with others. She teaches floral design classes, offers her signature tips on creating the perfect bow, and continues to mentor the next generation of floral designers.
The Lily Pad Florist has also been an active member of The Chamber since 2024. Most recently, Rollins provided floral centerpieces for the Chamber’s Advancing Women to the Top Conference, designing for an audience of more than 300 women from across northeast Alabama.
For Rollins, flowers are about more than beauty. “Every arrangement tells a story,” she shared. “It celebrates a moment and reminds people of the beauty that’s always in bloom.”
Her motto, “Say it with Flowers,” continues to guide her work, both in her shop and in competitions that now bring her talents to a larger stage. Competing at the Mid America Cup will mark a major career milestone and an honor not only for Rollins, but also for the Gadsden community she represents with pride.
The Lily Pad Florist is located at 825 W. Meighan Blvd. in Gadsden. Hours are Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Monday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The shop is closed on Sunday. For more information, call (256) 706-7382.