In March I was lucky enough to get a place on a week long course with the milliners milliner the delightful Rose Cory (photo of her on my gallery page). Rose used to make hats for the royal family and particularly for the late queen mother. We were also joined by an experienced milliner and haute couture tailor who used to be the fashion design manager for Vivienne Westwood.

I had a wonderful week in London and learnt many new techniques including the making of silk flowers, felt hats, trims and a fascinator that wouldn't look half bad at Ascot!

In the run up to Ascot I've used many of the new techniques and ideas I learnt earlier this year and have been pleased with the results. Many of my customers have been delighted with the results and its really gratifying to have so many smiling faces leave the shop.

I've especially enjoyed working with and adding Swarovski crystals in a myriad of colours to our hats and fascinators on either silver or gold plated wires.

I'm looking forward to seeing the highlights of Royal Ascot this year and trying to spot our hats, if you see an amazing hat be sure to pop into the shop and check if it's one of ours!