Plans for Wedding Aboard Rose Parade Float Cancelled

Farmers Insurance has cancelled its national search for couples to get married aboard its 2014 Rose Parade Float, but will instead honor teachers during the Rose Parade on January 1, 2014.

Farmers cancelled its last week’s announcement to host a “Picture Perfect Weddings Contest,” wherein three couples would be wedded during the Rose Parade to be officiated by TV personality and The Bachelor’s host Chris Harrison.

The company’s decision to change its float theme is brought about by the success of the launching of its “Thank a Million Teachers” initiative, Farmers said in a statement.

“The ‘Thank a Million Teachers’ initiative encourages everyone to take a moment to say a heartfelt ‘thanks’ to teachers for their ongoing dedication to our children’s growth and development,” Farmers said.

Farmers is now contacting the couples who joined the wedding contest to inform them of the cancellation and offering them a $500 gift card, Farmers head of media relations Mark Toohey told the Pasadena Star-News.

Toohey added that the change of plan will not be a setback for the staff of Farmers who have been designing parade floats for the 55th time next year.

Nicole and Gerald of Chesapeake, Virginia made history during the 124th Rose Parade last year for being the first couple to get married aboard the Love Float.

This year’s love float could have been the first time that same-sex couples would be allowed to get married aboard the float since the Supreme Court declared Proposition 8 unconstitutional.

The 125th Rose Parade presented by Honda, themed “Dreams Come True,” will be followed by the 100th Rose Bowl Game presented by VIZIO. On Jan. 6, 2014, the Tournament also will host the 2014 VIZIO BCS National Championship at the Rose Bowl Stadium.