I have always wanted to be a florist, ever since I did a two-week work experience at a Florist shop, when I was 14.

I left school with basic GCSE qualifications, and decided to enrol at College as a full-time floristry student. I had a Saturday job and a one-day work placement at the shop, whilst working towards my NVQ level 2.

Once I had completed this, I started full-time at the shop. I did a part-time Maths and English course to improve my grades, before enrolling on a day release floristry course, where I am working towards my NVQ level 3. I hope to complete this very soon. I enjoy learning at college, and transferring what I have learnt there into practice at work. Creating unusual and different designs is my favourite aspect of the job. In 2001 I was the floristry student of the year and took part in National competitions. I did quite well and would like to enter more in future and improve my techniques and style.

My current role as a florist involves putting together orders and general shop work. I take responsibility for receiving and conditioning the flowers through to organising deliveries. I would like to do more wedding design work and dream of working as a florist on a cruise ship if only for a short time.

Floristry is very hard work but I love making the customers happy by being as creative and inventive as I can be. It gives me great job satisfaction when the customers take time to say thank you for something I have made especially for them.