07/03/2026
As I close this chapter, I want to thank each and every one of you for your incredible support over the past almost six and a half years. Being a small business florist owner has not always been easy, but it has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life.
To my husband, Barry Shelton for all the involvement within the business that included making deliveries as needed. To my daughter Ashley Shelton for her time spent during my business years prepping plants, the many boutonnières she made for pallbearers, making deliveries as needed and whatever else she was asked to do. She definitely earned her pay. I cannot leave out and must mention those that put their time in that worked for me whether behind the scenes, day shifts, late nights to get the orders filled no matter the occasions…. Without you I couldn’t have succeeded during those times. THANK YOU !!!!!! You were the BEST !
Brook Austin, Anita Allen, Vanessa McMullin, Allison Gilbert, Lisa Wright, Dianna Siegel, Lori Blystad, Melody Laxton, Nettie Etheridge, Nicole Martin, and Teresa Carroll. If I left someone out please let me know.
For those that would drop off vases, easels, baskets, and anything that could be of good use … THANK YOU!
From customers in Australia, the Middle East(thank you for your service 🇺🇸), other states, counties across Tennessee, East Hickman, and especially my hometown of Centerville—thank you. Your kindness, loyalty, and trust have meant more to me than words can ever express. I truly cannot thank you enough.
Looking back, I believe I could write a book about all the memories we’ve shared—the people who walked through my door, the heartfelt telephone conversations, the stories exchanged on the sidewalks, and the unexpected moments that happened wherever life brought us. Every single one has left a lasting impression on my ♥️.
The staff at McDonald Funeral Home became more than business friends —they became family. I will always be grateful for the support, compassion, and teamwork we shared while serving our community together.
My journey with flowers began at Farmhouse Florist, where Sharon Rogers taught me the ropes and introduced me to the florist world. Later, when Don Smithson, owner of Smithson’s Florist, began experiencing health issues, he approached me about purchasing his business. I accepted that opportunity, and it gave me the foundation and confidence to begin my own journey as a business owner.
Even today, I believe my creativity and designing came from my mom, Shirley Mayberry Bryant (now deceased). She was an incredibly artistic and crafty person, and I never realized I had inherited that gift until I stepped into the florist business. Looking back now, I know that creative spirit was in me all along.
To everyone who supported Missy’s Floral Designs & Gifts, thank you for allowing me to be a small part of your life’s most meaningful moments—celebrations, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and times of loss. It has truly been an honor to serve this wonderful community.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you all for being a part of my journey.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah
Melissa Shelton
Owner of
Missy’s Floral Designs & Gifts💐
