Natalie Duckett

From leaving home at 17 to growing multiple successful businesses, Natalie is a testament to resilience, courage and the power of backing yourself—no matter where you start.

What inspired me

My journey truly began when I left home at 17 to work overseas for a holiday company. It was a leap into independence, and it sparked a confidence in me that has shaped every step since.

At school, I was told I’d likely become a hairdresser. At the time, it didn’t mean much—but as I grew older, I realised it was a reflection of the limited expectations placed on me. Instead of holding me back, it pushed me forward. It made me determined to show what I was capable of. Ironically, I later realised that being a hairdresser anywhere in the world is actually an amazing career with endless opportunities—they weren’t wrong, it was a beautiful path.

As I matured, I discovered my natural strengths: connecting with people, managing projects, and developing others. These experiences taught me the importance of confidence, resilience and self-belief—values that now drive me to support and empower other women to recognise their own strengths and potential.

How and why I started my businesses

During covid, I had spare time - and what started as helping my partner with his one-unit garage quickly became something much bigger. I began developing the business, building its processes and vision, and today that garage has grown into Cardiff Garage Ltd, operating across multiple sites with a 5-star rating and a team of eight.

Alongside this, I’ve spent many years as a Qualified Business Adviser, Operations Manager and Coach, mentoring entrepreneurs through Social Business Wales, Big Ideas Wales, and Enterprise Nation. Supporting others to build their dreams has always been a huge passion of mine.

My beauty entrepreneurship journey began long before this, sparked by boredom of the traditional 9–5 and a craving for a challenge. I trained in the evenings, traded on weekends and grew a business that became my full-time career. With 16 years of spray tanning experience, I spotted a gap in the market - and went for it. That decision transformed into a thriving salon, bridal tanning specialist service and training roles across Europe for a leading UK brand.

About my businesses

Today, I proudly run three businesses, each born from creativity, ambition and a belief in the power of taking opportunities:

Cardiff Garage Ltd

A multi-site automotive business providing MOTs, car repairs and servicing, valeting and car sales. From a single unit to a full operation, the business continues to grow with a strong community reputation.

You Can Consultancy

A mentoring and coaching service dedicated to inspiring and empowering women to start, grow and thrive in business. My mission is to help women build confidence, resilience and the practical tools to succeed.

Spray Tanning Artist & Trainer

With over 16 years’ experience, I’ve specialised in bridal tanning, trained professionals across Europe and previously ran my own salon for a decade. This business continues to give me the opportunity to teach, travel and connect with incredible people.