THREE businesses in the Basingstoke area that make couples' dream weddings come true have been recognised as among the best in the region.
The Wedding Industry Awards celebrate the best suppliers and venues across England that go the extra mile for couples.
Each region has its own group of winners across a range of categories and the South Central ceremony took place at Burningfold Manor, in Godalming, on Wednesday, November 15.
Three suppliers in the Basingstoke area walked away with awards.
Olive Blossom Bridal, in Overton, won the Bridal Retailer established less than four years; Sonning Flowers, in Kingsclere, was crowned Wedding Florist of the Year; and Champagne Photobooths and Audio Guest Books, in Old Basing, won Best Wedding Photo/Video Entertainment of the Year.
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Owner Heather Reilly said: “I’m speechless, utterly speechless to be able to say for the third year running we are the Regional Wedding Florist of the Year. The South Central region is huge and full of incredibly talented florists. Every year I am honoured to be up against such competition and I’d have never dreamed we could have done this three years running, I’m so proud of my truly exceptional team and what we are creating.
“A huge thank you to all our wonderful wedding couples who voted for us and provided generous and incredible feedback about their wedding flowers and service we provided to an expert panel of judges. We wouldn’t be here without you. Now for the National Finals in January.”
Olive Blossom Bridal opened in Overton in 2022 by Lorraine Maltby and is now celebrating its award win.
Lorraine said: “I am just so proud, we have worked so hard and when you get something like this it is definitely worthwhile.
“I can’t thank my brides enough, they mean the absolute world to me. When I stepped into this business I wanted to make sure they received the best experience that was non-pushy, calm and one that they enjoyed.”
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She added: “Thank you to all my brides who voted for me, we are so proud.”
Clair Davy started Champagne Photobooths and Audio Guest Books five years ago and covers Hampshire and the surrounding areas.
She said: “This is the first year we entered this award and are over the moon to have won. We have been lucky enough to have met so many wonderful people, which makes our job so much fun.
“It feels amazing to be recognised for all the fun and enjoyment we bring to people's weddings and parties, there is nothing better than looking back through the pictures and seeing so many happy faces with all our props having a good time.”
Regional winners will now go into the national finals which will be held at the Underglobe in London in January 2024.
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