Hi Lavenderfleur, I started in 2005 with a correspondence course (now seems old fashioned!) which took 9 months and gave an overview of skills. I'm still studying - currently level 2 City and Guilds on Saturdays - whilst in a full time job. Not sure if I'll do level 3 yet. I also do regular short courses (did 3 last year). Hoping to get some shop experience -have had a little over Christmas. In terms of work from home, have done 3 x weddings (October, November and December) and all went very well.
