Meet Kelowna's Top 40 Over 40: Shannon Johnston

The Top 40 Over 40 honourees are aged 40-plus and are entrepreneurs and leaders who are well-established in their careers in Kelowna.

From the over 100 nominations, the Top 40 were chosen by a panel of judges as ideal examples of the program's criteria.

Shannon Johnston is the Owner & Lead Stylist of Pickadilly’s, where she blends sustainability and elegance through Real Touch faux florals, redefining modern event styling with purpose, beauty, and heart.

What does being named to the Top 40 Over 40 list mean to you personally and professionally?

Being named to the Top 40 Over 40 list means so much to me—both personally and professionally.

Personally, it’s a reminder that reinvention is possible at any stage of life. I started this business after 40, during a time when many people feel pressure to have everything figured out.

Instead, I chose to follow my passion, take risks, and build something aligned with my values. This recognition validates that choice and reminds me that it’s never too late to start again or dream bigger.

Professionally, it’s an incredible honour to be recognized for doing something a little different. I’ve built Pickadilly’s around the idea that beauty and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Real Touch faux florals offer the same visual impact as fresh flowers—sometimes even more—but without the waste, unpredictability, or high cost.

Being part of this list helps shine a light on a modern, accessible alternative for celebrations that still feel special and luxurious.

In what ways do you feel you've made a lasting impact on our community or industry?

I believe my impact lies in offering a new, more sustainable standard for beauty in celebrations. Through Pickadilly’s, I’ve helped shift the mindset around event flowers—proving that faux doesn’t mean fake.

By using Real Touch florals, I’ve created designs that feel luxurious and authentic, while reducing waste and offering a more affordable option for couples and businesses.

I’ve also made it a priority to collaborate with other local creatives, donate décor to charitable causes, and support organizations like Mamas for Mamas.

It’s important to me that my business isn’t just about pretty things—it’s about creating moments that matter and building community through thoughtful design.

What advice do you give to those just starting out who hope to make a difference one day? or What’s one piece of wisdom you wish you could share with your younger self?

Start before you feel ready. You don’t need all the answers, a perfect plan, or anyone’s permission to begin. The real magic happens when you take one small step, then another, and stay connected to what truly matters to you.

If you want to make a difference, focus on service—on solving real problems, lifting others up, and staying true to your values. That’s where your staying power comes from.

To my younger self, I’d say: You’re not behind. You’re gathering everything you’ll need for when it’s time to bloom. Trust the timing—and yourself.

Who mentored or inspired you earlier in your career, and what lasting impact did they have on you?

One of my biggest inspirations was my grandmother. She worked at Floris in London, helping create custom perfumes for clients like the Royal family.

She always carried herself with pride in her work and taught me the importance of quality and taking care of people.

That influence stuck with me. I named my business Pickadilly’s in her honour, and I try to bring that same level of care and thoughtfulness into everything I do. She showed me that when you do something with heart and high standards, people remember it.

How have you navigated change and innovation in your field, especially over the past decade?

The biggest shift I’ve embraced is the move toward sustainability and the growing demand for alternatives to fresh flowers. I saw a gap in the market for high-end faux florals that still felt modern and beautiful—so I leaned into Real Touch flowers and built a business around them.

Over the past decade, I’ve also had to stay flexible and creative—whether it was navigating the pandemic, changes in client expectations, or the way people find and book services online.

I’ve learned to adapt quickly, try new things (even when they’re uncomfortable), and use technology and storytelling to connect with people in a more meaningful way.

For me, innovation has meant choosing a different path—and proving that it can be just as impactful.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind through your work or community involvement? or What’s next for you? Any exciting projects, goals, or new chapters on the horizon?

I hope my legacy is about creating beauty with purpose. I want people to remember that doing things differently—like using faux florals or focusing on sustainability—can still have heart, impact, and elegance.

Through Pickadilly’s, I’ve been lucky to be part of some of life’s most meaningful moments—weddings, proposals, baby showers—and that’s something I’ll always be grateful for.

What’s next? I’m expanding into new markets across Canada and the U.S., continuing to grow our online store, floral rental and styling services, and creating digital resources and content to support others in the industry.

It’s about building something lasting—creatively and intentionally.