An Ipswich florist has overcome challenging times in the last two decades – and is marking this new chapter by going nationwide.

Emma’s Florist in Nacton Road has been through its fair share of hardships since it opened on August 7, 2003.

But now it is looking to expand and possibly go on Amazon as part of “going national”.

Originally from Essex, owner Emma Felgate trained in floristry for four years at Writtle College, before launching her independent business in Ipswich at the age of 21.

Ipswich Star:

She will launch two new changes from Monday, August 7 – Emma’s Florist bouquets, which now can only be sent to people in the Ipswich area, will be able to be sent nationwide through a delivery service, and a luxury subscription box will launch so “people get to enjoy flowers in their home weekly”.

The mother-of-two said: “It's exciting but nerve-wracking. I didn't realise how much work it would take, but I love a mission.

"We're looking at going on Amazon and that kind of thing as well. I can’t wait for the next chapter.”

While Mrs Felgate now has five employees, she started out working seven days a week with just a part-time delivery driver.

Ipswich Star:

The 41-year-old said: “When we first started out it was really hard. When you open up a business you have to pay the bills.

"I was 21 when I opened. I thought I knew a lot about business, and it turns out I didn't know so much.

“We then had to close our shop in St Peter's Street just after lockdown. That was a really hard decision to make.

"I felt like I had failed and I didn't want to let anyone down. But it was the best decision and we have just grown ever since.

“There's always a reason. Bad things open up to good things.”