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Andalusia alumna Maryann Rabren has opened a new florist shop on River Falls Street in Andalusia.

Since opening on Feb. 5, Rabren said the shop has been doing well.

“We got through Valentines’ Day,” Rabren said. “We have been doing really well since then.”

Rabren graduated from Andalusia High School in 1996. She then went on to go to the University of Alabama, where she graduated in 2000, with a bachelor’s degree in interior design.

This is not the first time that Rabren has owned a business in Andalusia. She has also worked with Alan Cotton at his florist shop.

“I had another store on the square, down where the LAAC is,” Rabren said. “I was doing a lot of home stuff, but even then I was doing flowers on the side. It was at Alan’s shop that I found out what I’m supposed to do. I am definitely grateful that I was able to work with him. I was able to let my talent that God gave me grow.”

Being creative every day with her flower arrangements is what Rabren said is the best part of her job.

“I get to create every day with my hands,” Rabren said. “Each piece is different. There is an individuality to each piece and I love to make each person happy. I honestly think it is good for the soul.”

Having a store in her hometown means a lot, Rabren said.

“It means a lot to be able to come home and provide a service to Andalusia,” Rabren said. “Andalusia is and always will be home.”

Rabren provides fresh flower arrangements, plants, flowers for weddings and events and interior design.

“I try to take a different approach to flowers,” Rabren said. “Or at least I try to make it a little different.”

MaryAnn’s Florist is located at 929 River Falls Street.