A Halesowen entrepreneur's wedding keepsakes venture has earned two national small business award nominations, a testament to the growing demand for personalised memorial gifts. The business, which creates bespoke keepsakes from wedding flowers and other sentimental items, has been shortlisted in two categories at the National Small Business Awards.
A Unique Niche in the Gifting Market
Founded by local entrepreneur Sarah Thompson, the business specialises in preserving wedding bouquets and other floral arrangements into elegant keepsakes such as resin jewellery, framed art, and decorative ornaments. The idea was born from a personal desire to cherish her own wedding flowers, and it quickly resonated with couples across the UK.
“We were overwhelmed by the response,” said Thompson. “People love the idea of keeping their wedding flowers forever in a beautiful, functional piece. It’s not just a product; it’s a memory they can hold.”
National Recognition and Growth
The venture, which started as a hobby in Thompson's spare room, has grown into a thriving online business. It now employs a small team and ships hundreds of orders each month. The two nominations are for “Best New Business” and “Outstanding Customer Service,” categories that highlight the company's rapid growth and dedication to client satisfaction.
According to the award organisers, the shortlist was compiled from over 1,500 entries nationwide, making the achievement particularly notable. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London later this year.
Impact on the Local Community
Thompson’s success has also had a positive impact on the local economy. She sources materials from local suppliers and has created several part-time jobs for residents in Halesowen. “It’s fantastic to see a local business gaining national recognition,” said a spokesperson for Halesowen Business Improvement District. “It shows that innovation and passion can thrive outside the big cities.”
The business has also attracted attention from bridal magazines and wedding blogs, further boosting its profile. Thompson hopes the nominations will inspire other entrepreneurs in the West Midlands to pursue their creative ideas.
Looking Ahead
As the awards ceremony approaches, Thompson remains focused on expanding her product range and improving the customer experience. She is also exploring partnerships with wedding venues and florists to offer her keepsakes as part of their packages.
“This recognition is just the beginning,” she added. “We have so many more ideas to bring to life, and we are excited to see where this journey takes us.”
