ROSES are red, bank balance is black, set up in business and never looked back!

That could be the message from Floral Dreams, a Newport florist celebrating 10 years in business and looking forward to a prosperous Valentine's Day.

Located in Corporation Road, Floral Dreams was founded by Alison Kenny and is a model of how a busy mum can juggle family life and a flourishing business.

She said: "After the birth of my first child I decided I wanted to be my own boss, to create the flexibility I needed to have to be with my children.

"I now have three children, one of whom suffers from a serious asthmatic condition, which makes flexibility even more essential."

The business has been nurtured by Barclays' commercial banking services.

It employs three people and has been in a state of constant evolution to ensure its survival.

Due to the increasing influence of major supermarkets, local florists have come under pressures as customers now pick up their roses with their weekly shop.

They also take advantage of mass-produced packages designed for Valentine's, Mother's Day and so on.

Ms Kenny said: "We have to compete with the majors on price and surpass them on quality with flowers imported from Holland.

"My business has also diversified into the cards and gift market, which is maximising revenue opportunities from a relatively small shop.

"As Valentine's approaches I hope people won't take the easy option and buy the same flowers as everyone else.

"They should visit their local florist and get something special."

Max Woodman, Barclays' local business manager for Newport, said: "Alison is a great example of someone using her skills and experience to spot a business opportunity.

"Our research has identified the significant role women in business play in the Welsh economy and is committed to supporting such propositions."

A recent survey conducted by the bank showed that women are now responsible for 30 per cent of business start-ups, particularly in areas such as niche retailing and lifestyle enterprises where it often possible to manage business and family commitments.