A STOCKTON woman's "charming" idea has proved so popular that she has set up her own business, working from home.

Suzanne Kelly, a French and Spanish teacher from Ingleby Barwick, came across the idea during a trip to the USA, where she first saw some personalised wine-glass jewellery.

"I hadn't come across anything like it in the UK, so I bought some materials to try out with friends and family back home," she said.

As a result, she founded Charming Weddings, which now caters for all kinds of events.

The charms mean that each guest's wine-glass can have a different personalised charm attached. Each charm is unique, in either gold or silver, and is surrounded by glass beads in a wide choice of colours to complement colour themes and table decorations.

Apart from weddings, she can also cater for events such as christenings, birthdays and corporate events. Themes include sports, music, nature, fashion, bridal, baby and travel.

Working from home, she originally ran the business as a sideline to her teaching, but since taking time out to have her second child in June last year she has had the time to concentrate on the company further while still having the flexibility to fit in with home life.

Seeing the potential for expanding into a wider range of events, Mrs Kelly contacted Business Link for specialist advice and guidance.

Mike Mann, an account manager at the organisation, initially advised on issues of accounts and tax, but has also provided useful contacts to reach untapped markets.

A web site - www.charmingweddings.co.uk - allows people to view the products and order wine-glass charms to their specific requirements. A company brochure has targeted wedding planners, and attracted business both locally and nationally.

"The business is mainly internet-led, which means I can deal with orders in the evening after the children have gone to bed," said Mrs Kelly. "This gives me the full day to be with the children and childcare is no longer an issue."

Mr Mann is delighted with her success. "It's encouraging to see a busy mum taking the initiative and turning a hobby into a unique business venture," he said.

With her language skills, Mrs Kelly hopes eventually to branch out internationally by translating the web site into French and Spanish.