My interest in Design continued and I frequently made my own clothing, crafts and Soft Furnishings for friends and family. As my parents didn’t really encourage me to pursue my creative flair, it wasn’t until I renovated my first home that I realized my thirst for design, and decided to return to Education, studying Interior Design at Wigan & Leigh College. I had found my forte and whilst being a student, continued to design and make beautiful window dressings for friends and family. I felt at home within the college, and after successfully completing Interior Design & Decoration with Distinctions, the College invited me to Teach, just as I had been a student. The college supported me with a ‘Teacher Training’ programme, and before long, I was a Tutor in the same Lecture Room where I had previously been a student. Whilst lecturing part-time in Interior Design & Decorative Techniques, I continued designing and creating beautiful drapes and soft furnishings from home, where my popularity and portfolio grew. It wasn't too long before I needed a larger work room, as clients asked me to additionally provide lighting, Artwork, and accessories to complete their beautiful new space. I didn’t need much encouragement, and my first studio, Ideas Interiors opened it’s doors in 1998.
As a child, I was always happiest colouring, painting and sketching, creating my ‘Dream Home’. I would experiment at home, and at 14 years old gave my bedroom a ‘Laura Ashley’ Make Over, and hand crafted my ‘Bespoke’ window blinds, so top on trend at the time.