The Power of Getting Involved: Rachel Shelton’s TNLA Journey

8/6/2026

From student volunteer to business owner and Region V State Director, Rachel Shelton’s story shows how getting involved can shape a career, strengthen a community and open the door to new possibilities.

From her earliest TNLA experiences as a student to her new role on the TNLA Board of Directors, Rachel Shelton’s career has been shaped by one important choice: getting involved.

Today, Rachel is the owner of 573 Flower Farm and the 2026–2027 TNLA Region V State Director. Long before becoming a business owner or board leader, however, she was building relationships through TNLA, volunteering at Nursery/Landscape EXPO and learning from people across the green industry.

Over the years, Rachel has participated in TNLA’s Leadership Boot Camp, supported Women in Horticulture and received the 2023 Young Leader Award. Each experience has given her opportunities to learn, serve and grow, both personally and professionally.

Her story reflects what it means to be rooted in something bigger: belonging to an industry community where people share knowledge, encourage one another and help create opportunities for the next generation.

You participated in TNLA’s Leadership Boot Camp early in your career. Are there any lessons you still carry with you today?

The development I gained through Leadership Boot Camp still resonates with me today. You aren’t only learning how to grow your business, you’re learning how to grow yourself and the people around you.

After years with a longtime TNLA member company, you recently took the exciting step of launching your own business. What inspired you to take that leap?

My husband’s unwavering support and willingness to be up for anything helped bring this dream to life and grow 573 Flower Farm. Working for Jackie Smith (owner of Absolute Equipment Sales) also gave me the courage to start my own business. I was given so many opportunities while working for him that, eventually, I thought, “Why not me?”

Congratulations on being elected as Region V State Director. What does serving on the TNLA Board of Directors mean to you, and what are you most looking forward to?

Serving on the Board means a great deal to me. Once I became involved at the Region level, I knew I wanted to pour myself into TNLA in a deeper way. What I’m looking forward to most is growth, helping TNLA grow while continuing to grow personally and professionally.

What advice would you give to students and young professionals who are just beginning their careers in the green industry?

Get involved and ask questions. There are opportunities waiting for you to reach out and grab them. So many people in this industry and association want to help you, so be willing to show up and do the work.

In one sentence, what does being part of the TNLA community mean to you?

It means belonging to a place where people support you, knowledge never ends, advice is freely shared, although you may want to take some of it with a grain of salt, and growth is possible when you’re willing to put in the work.

Rachel’s journey, from student participation and volunteer service to entrepreneurship and board leadership, shows what can happen when someone finds their community, gets involved and keeps showing up.

Whether you are a student, an emerging professional, a business owner or a longtime industry leader, there is a place for you in the TNLA community. Learn more about TNLA membership and ways to get involved be clicking the button below!

Join TNLA Today

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Credit Card Fees Are Changing: What It Means for Your Business

4/15/2026

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A message from Merchant Owl, a TNLA Endorsed Service Provider

If your business accepts credit card payments, especially if you work with contractors, municipalities, or other businesses, a recent change from Visa could impact your costs.

Effective April 16, 2026, Visa is discontinuing its Level 2 data program. While the name may not sound familiar, this program allowed many B2B businesses to qualify for lower credit card processing rates when certain transaction details were included.

With this change, some businesses may see higher processing fees when accepting purchasing cards.
There is still an opportunity to reduce costs but it now requires capturing additional information at the time of the transaction and using the right systems to properly process that data.

What this means for you:

If you’re not set up correctly, you could be paying more than necessary in card fees especially during your busiest season.

The good news is that there are ways to minimize the impact. Working with the right payment provider can help ensure your transactions are structured to qualify for the best possible rates.

Merchant Owl, a TNLA Endorsed Service Provider, has worked alongside the green industry for over 20 years and helps businesses evaluate their current setup and identify opportunities to reduce costs.

TNLA members can receive a free consultation no current relationship required.

More information can be obtained by contacting Rich Kling at Merchant Owl. We can help evaluate your current situation and make recommendations as needed to assist you in qualifying your transactions at the best level (cost) possible.

[email protected]
888-996-4695
Book a meeting
www.merchantowl.com/tnla

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What’s Blooming at TNLA: Member Benefits That Help Your Business Grow

3/6/2026

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Spring is one of the busiest seasons for the green industry. As work ramps up across Texas nurseries, landscape companies, and garden centers, it’s also a good time to take a fresh look at the resources available through your TNLA membership.

Many members know TNLA for its events, advocacy, and education—but another important benefit is access to exclusive savings and vetted service providers designed to help your business operate more efficiently.

Over the years, TNLA has partnered with companies that provide services our members rely on every day. These Member-Endorsed Service Providers and Benefit Partners offer tools, discounts, and services that support your business operations while helping reduce costs.

Thanks to the collective buying power of TNLA members, we’re able to negotiate competitive pricing and programs on your behalf.

So this spring, here’s a quick refresher on what’s blooming in TNLA member benefits.

TNLA Endorsed Service Providers

TNLA carefully evaluates companies that provide essential services for businesses in the nursery and landscape industry. Endorsed providers are selected because they offer strong service, industry understanding, and meaningful savings for members.

Current TNLA Endorsed Service Providers include:

Texas Green Industry (TGI) Safety Group
Workers compensation insurance designed specifically for the Texas green industry.

Merchant Owl
Special member discounts on credit card processing services. Rich Kling, 407-883-2246 | [email protected].

Spectrum VoIP
Cloud-based VoIP phone systems designed to support growing businesses. Contact Justice Hill 469-384-2402

These providers help TNLA members access reliable services while potentially lowering operational costs.

TNLA Member Benefit Partners

In addition to endorsed providers, TNLA also partners with organizations offering discounts and programs that support your team and your business.

These partnerships include savings on everything from fuel to office supplies and employee benefits.
Examples include:

SiteOne Landscape Supply
New 2026 TNLA members qualify to receive a FREE Pro-Trade long-handle shovel at participating branches.
View printable flyer HERE or visit their website for a general overview HERE

Coast Pay Fuel Card
Earn up to a $2,000 sign-up bonus, with many businesses reducing fleet fuel costs. Learn more: https://coastpay.com/lp/tnla-member-offer/

Office Depot / OfficeMax
Members can receive up to 75% off thousands of office supply products. For in store purchases use Account #80124841998 - For online purchases go to tnla.savingcenter.net

Avis & Enterprise
Discounted rental car rates for business travel. Use the AWD code U059686 for up to a 25% discount. Enterprise-Use code 65A1840 and Company name (TEX) for a 10%discount on the lowest internet rate. Fleet services include discount on fuel and new vehicle purchases.

Group Management Services (PEO)
Access competitive HR, payroll, and employee benefits solutions. Learn more at group-mgmt.com or call Jared Kosser-Smith at 737-999-1604.

Irrigation Association
TNLA members receive $100 off contractor membership dues.

Texas RX Prescription Savings Card
Up to 75% savings on prescriptions for members and their families. For questions, contact Debra Adler [email protected] or call 770-313-7261

LegalShield
Business legal solutions with waived initiation fees for TNLA members. Call George Ellison at 512.791.8791

AAA Membership
TNLA members receive $30 off AAA membership. Contact Todd Alexander at [email protected] or call 832-339-3605.

These programs are designed to deliver real value for members and their employees.

Why TNLA Vetting Matters

Every endorsed provider and benefit partner is reviewed to ensure they offer high-quality services, strong value, and reliability for our members.

This means you don’t have to spend time researching vendors or negotiating rates on your own—TNLA has already done the work to identify trusted partners.

The goal is simple:
✔ Help members save money
✔ Provide reliable business solutions
✔ Support the success of Texas green industry companies

Take a Fresh Look This Spring

As the busy season gets underway, it’s worth taking a few minutes to explore the programs available through your TNLA membership. You may discover a benefit that helps streamline operations or reduce expenses for your business.

👉 Explore all TNLA Endorsed Service Providers and Benefit Partners here:
https://www.tnlaonline.org/endorsed-services--discounts.htm

endorsed_services_-_member_benefit_partner_flier_3-3-2026.pdf
File Size:	307 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

Because when members grow stronger, the entire industry grows stronger too.

TNLA… Helping you do business better

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Your TNLA Member Advantage: Exclusive Benefits All Year

10/17/2025

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As we close out the year, it’s a great time to take stock of everything your TNLA membership offers — not just during the holidays, but every day.

From insurance and communication tools to travel, fuel, and everyday business savings, your TNLA membership connects you to exclusive partnerships and discounts designed to make running your business easier, smarter, and more cost-effective all year long.

Whether you’re looking to streamline operations, reward your team, or cut expenses, here’s a quick guide to the perks and programs available to you right now.

🌟 TNLA Endorsed Service Providers

Our endorsed providers are carefully selected for their proven reliability, service quality, and savings for TNLA members.

These partnerships are exclusive to TNLA and vetted by your peers in the green industry.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Texas Green Industry (TGI) Safety Group

Protect your business and your employees with specialized coverage tailored for the green industry.

Ask your insurance agent about enrolling in the Texas Green Industry Safety Group (TGI) to qualify for premium savings and industry-specific support.

Merchant Owl – Credit Card Processing

Streamline transactions and reduce processing fees with TNLA’s endorsed payment processor.
Contact: Rich Kling | 📞 407-883-2246 | 📧 [email protected]

Members report significant savings and quick, personalized service.

Download Flier

Spectrum VoIP – Cloud-Based VoIP Service Provider

A reliable, scalable phone system designed for growing businesses.

Contact: Justice Hill | 📞 469-384-2402
Cloud-based service means you can manage calls and teams from anywhere — with the features your business needs to stay connected

View Website

💼 TNLA Member Benefit Partners

These trusted partners offer exclusive discounts to TNLA members across key business needs — from HR and fuel to rentals, supplies, and more.

Group Management Services (GMS) – PEO
Simplify HR, payroll, and compliance with a professional employer organization (PEO).
Learn more at group-mgmt.com or call Jared Kosser-Smith at 📞 737-999-1604.

SiteOne Landscape Supply
Get 20% off your first purchase up to $100 at SiteOne branches in Texas.
Ask an associate for details and save on essentials for your next job.

Coast Pay Fuel Card
Earn up to a $2,000 sign-up bonus and track fuel expenses across your fleet.
Learn more at coastpay.com/lp/tnla-member-offer.

Avis & Enterprise
Avis: Up to 25% off car rentals with AWD code U059686
Enterprise: 10% off lowest internet rate using code 65A1840 and company name (TEX)
Fleet services also include discounts on fuel and new-vehicle purchases.

Office Depot / OfficeMax
Save up to 75% off retail prices.
In-store: Use account #80124841998
Online: Visit tnla.savingcenter.net

Irrigation Association
TNLA members receive a $100 discount off IA contractor membership dues.

RX Prescription Savings Card
Save up to 75% on prescriptions.
Contact: Debra Adler | 📧 [email protected] | 📞 770-313-7261
No cost to use — just show your card at the pharmacy.

LegalShield
Affordable legal protection for your business and your employees.
TNLA members pay no initiation fees.
Contact: George Ellison | 📞 512-791-8791

AAA
TNLA members receive $30 off AAA membership.
Contact: Todd Alexander | 📧 [email protected] | 📞 832-339-3605

🌿 Keep Getting the Most Out of Your Membership

Your TNLA membership is more than an annual renewal — it’s a partnership designed to help your business thrive every day of the year.

From saving on essentials to streamlining operations and accessing trusted industry partners, these benefits are here whenever you need them.

Take a few minutes to explore your perks, share them with your team, and make sure you’re getting the full value of being part of TNLA.

📄 Share the Savings

Your TNLA membership benefits everyone on your team — from office staff to crews in the field.

Download the Endorsed Services & Member Perks flier to post in your breakroom or share with employees so they can take advantage of these savings, too.

Download the TNLA Member Perks Flier

Questions? Please reach out to [email protected] for more information on member perks or [email protected] for more information on membership types, rates or joining.

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Upcoming Events

The Power of Getting Involved: Rachel Shelton’s TNLA Journey

You participated in TNLA’s Leadership Boot Camp early in your career. Are there any lessons you still carry with you today?

After years with a longtime TNLA member company, you recently took the exciting step of launching your own business. What inspired you to take that leap?

Congratulations on being elected as Region V State Director. What does serving on the TNLA Board of Directors mean to you, and what are you most looking forward to?

What advice would you give to students and young professionals who are just beginning their careers in the green industry?

In one sentence, what does being part of the TNLA community mean to you?

Credit Card Fees Are Changing: What It Means for Your Business

What this means for you:

What’s Blooming at TNLA: Member Benefits That Help Your Business Grow

TNLA Endorsed Service Providers

TNLA Member Benefit Partners

Why TNLA Vetting Matters

Take a Fresh Look This Spring

Your TNLA Member Advantage: Exclusive Benefits All Year

🌟 TNLA Endorsed Service Providers

Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Texas Green Industry (TGI) Safety Group

Merchant Owl – Credit Card Processing

Spectrum VoIP – Cloud-Based VoIP Service Provider

💼 TNLA Member Benefit Partners

🌿 Keep Getting the Most Out of Your Membership

📄 Share the Savings

Author

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Upcoming Events

The Power of Getting Involved: Rachel Shelton’s TNLA Journey

You participated in TNLA’s Leadership Boot Camp early in your career. Are there any lessons you still carry with you today?

After years with a longtime TNLA member company, you recently took the exciting step of launching your own business. What inspired you to take that leap?

Congratulations on being elected as Region V State Director. What does serving on the TNLA Board of Directors mean to you, and what are you most looking forward to?

What advice would you give to students and young professionals who are just beginning their careers in the green industry?

In one sentence, what does being part of the TNLA community mean to you?

Credit Card Fees Are Changing: What It Means for Your Business

What this means for you:

What’s Blooming at TNLA: Member Benefits That Help Your Business Grow

TNLA Endorsed Service Providers​

TNLA Member Benefit Partners

Why TNLA Vetting Matters​

Take a Fresh Look This Spring​

Your TNLA Member Advantage: Exclusive Benefits All Year

🌟 TNLA Endorsed Service Providers

Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Texas Green Industry (TGI) Safety Group

Merchant Owl – Credit Card Processing

Spectrum VoIP – Cloud-Based VoIP Service Provider

💼 TNLA Member Benefit Partners

🌿 Keep Getting the Most Out of Your Membership

📄 Share the Savings

Author

Archives

Categories

TNLA Endorsed Service Providers

Why TNLA Vetting Matters

Take a Fresh Look This Spring