.png)
On the evening of the 6th February, the Whitewed Directory members were invited to dinner, drinks & celebrations at the Doubletree Hilton Hotel in Swindon.
Backdrop by NicheEvents
As we all arrived; it was apparent the amount of love & care that had been taken to set up the main function room by Nikoleta and the team at the Doubletree. Working alongside the venue; Usha & Nisha from Niche Events had dressed the room to impress with table settings; a selfie wall and red carpet!
The Awards There were five awards being presented on the night: Business of the Year 2019, Start-up Business of the Year 2019, Most Inspiring Business Person of the Year 2019, The Peers Award 2019 & The Director's Award 2019.
The Judges Each award was judged by a panel of well-respected business professionals. Firstly; Sara Tye, an award-winning business and organisational development expert. Emma Richards, Director of Sales & Marketing at Doubletree Hilton Swindon, Ian Larrad Director of Business West and Natalie Lovett Director of The Whitewed Directory.
The Whitewed Directory Team
Let the Celebrations Commence
Not only was I treated with beautiful personalised balloons from Niche Events and an amazing Birthday Cake from Kimmi's Cakes; I ALSO WON AN AWARD!!!! I could not believe it and was totally not prepared to make an acceptance speech especially after one too many drinks!
Judges comments on my win for '2019 Directors Award' were:
Holly is a true inspiration to the community. She throws herself wholeheartedly into everything she does…but with care, precision and professionalism.
Brand is everything to Holly, as is being the best she possibly can for her clients, and her passion always shines through. Her collaborative and supportive approach are absolutely amazing – even when there is no direct gain for herself.
The Winners
Our First Winner of the Night went to George Goes Out for Business of the Year 2019.
The judge's comments including praise of George Goes Out’s fantastic growth and
diversification in the business, and an understanding of what's needed to grow a successful business.
The next award went to MK Hair & Makeup for Start-Up Business of the Year 2019.
The judges were impressed with Marie's experience & that she had also diversified into the Corporate and production/media industry ensuring work all year round. Clearly a great business head and being able to expand her team to 10 within such a short time is true testament to this lady’s business acumen.
Our man of the moment was awarded Most Inspiring Business Person of the Year 2019; Fluffy Puffin.
Chris has created unrivalled 'bespoke' wedding and event ice cream and sorbet packages with his limitless menu! Fluffy Puffin shows true dedication to his business knowing that success often exceeds a 12 hour day.
Next up, was the Peers award, voted for by all directory members winner; Wendy House Flowers.
Judges commented that Louise is always supportive, welcoming and happy to share information and ideas. This person is inspiring as they always pushes herself to be better even through struggles.
Winning the Directors award, voted and judged by Whitewed Founder Natalie Lovett; Willoughby & Wolf.
Natalie commented that Victoria is passionate about her offering, her brand and her position in the market and embraces every opportunity given to her to get involved, even at great time and monetary cost to herself – she sees everything as an opportunity and is happy to share ideas.
What an amazing night, we danced, we laughed and we ate lots of cake! Looking back on such a wonderful evening I am truly thankful for our 'little' wedding community. Here for a catch-up, a glam night out or to work on our business plans; I know I have a unique group of people always willing to help and accept support.
All photos were taken by The Little Photo Company