FLORIST Karen Barnes flew to the United States yesterday - to take part in the country's largest flower show.

But the Guiseley florist will be returning home early - in time for her busiest time of the year, Mothering Sunday.

Karen, who has been invited to take part in the Philadelphia Flower Show by the American Institute of Floral Designers, will be one of 12 top designers creating an 'enchanted garden'.

"I've ordered most of my flowers over there and just hope they'll be ready for me when I arrive. The theme is enchanted garden and all 12 designers on the stand are given a table and two chairs with a walkway between them for people to walk through," she said.

As America's equivalent of the Chelsea Flower Show, Karen said it was a great privilege to be invited to take part.

And although there are no big cash prizes, just a trophy for the whole stand, just showing at the event can lead on to more work in the States.

"They do give me an allowance to go and it opens doors for me to work over there such as running a workshop in the summer for students," she said.

It is the fifth time Karen, owner of Flowers by Karen, has been invited to America's premier event.

"They do give me an allowance to go and it opens doors for me to work over there such as running a workshop in the summer for students," she said.

But because of Mothering Sunday on March 26, after setting up her display, Karen will have to return home four days before the event finishes.

"I didn't go last year because of Mothers Day, their Mothers Day is in May, so it doesn't clash with theirs."

Karen, who is flying out with husband, Stuart, added: "I love it in America, everything seems much bigger and they're lovely people to work with. It's a lovely atmosphere and I just loving swapping ideas."