Kate West started a national certificate in floristry at Otley College in 2006.
Two years on, the end of the course is in sight and the former Northgate High School pupil has been so taken by the world of flowers, that she has set up her own business called PS I Love You!
(Kate still works for local fashion retailer Baiss and Co in Ipswich but is aiming to turn her back on the fashion world once her company is fully established).
She also gained skills with a local company called Clare Cowling courses as she hones her skills in her newfound passion.
Asked what her ideal client would be, she shunned Posh and Becks.
Instead, she said, "I would find it hard to turn down Prince William and Kate Middleton if they ever decided to get married."
Royalty aside, she is looking forward to building a solid reputation locally.
She added, "I have really enjoyed my time at Otley. The course has been great as it is very flexible and also requires you to work 40 hours in the industry. As a single mum, the flexibility has helped me to retrain without disrupting my daughters day to day routine."
"I am currently looking at the possibility of continuing with my studies at Otley. We will just have to see how quickly the business takes off."
"Ultimately I am looking to build a brilliant reputation with the local community. But if William and Kate were to get in touch, I"d be delighted to here from them."
Are you an employer wanting to take on a 16 or 17 year old Apprentice?
[media:photo - News Article: From Fashion Passion to Flower Power photo 1]