Our Journey as a Finalist in the RIWAS Isle of Wight Rural Awards 2024

Join us as we recount our exciting experience as a Finalist in the RIWAS Isle of Wight Rural Awards 2024. Discover how our commitment to sustainability, community support, and passion for floristry led us to this prestigious recognition. From the rigorous application process to the thrilling awards ceremony, this blog captures our journey, the lessons learned, and our gratitude towards everyone who supported us along the way. (August 2024 - 4 minute read)

Our Journey as a Finalist in the RIWAS Isle of Wight Rural Awards 2024

We are thrilled to share our experience of being a Finalist in the RIWAS Isle of Wight Rural Awards 2024, sponsored by the Country Land and Business Association. It was a journey filled with excitement, learning, and a deep sense of pride in our business and the community we serve. Although we didn't take home the top prize in the category of Countryside Small Business of the Year, being recognized as a Finalist was an incredible honour and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our small (but mighty!) team.

The Application Process and Preparation

The journey began with a detailed application process where we highlighted the unique aspects of our florist business. From our sustainable practices to our commitment to supporting local flower farms and eco-friendly products, we focused on presenting the best of what we offer. Preparing for the awards allowed us to reflect on our achievements and the impact we've made in our community. It was a moment of pride to see how far we’ve come, especially in adapting to challenges and embracing sustainability.

The Judging Visit

One of the most memorable parts of the process was the judging visit to our business. We welcomed the panel judges with open arms, excited to give them an insider's look at our operations. The day was filled with anticipation as we guided them through our sustainability journey and our achievements to date. We took this opportunity to explain the quality and care that goes into every floral arrangement that we produce, and the passion and resilience that drives our work. And of course, we supplied cake!

The Awards Ceremony

The awards ceremony at the Royal Isle of Wight County Show was a magical event, filled with anticipation and excitement. It was inspiring to be with so many passionate individuals and businesses, all contributing to the vibrant rural life on the Isle of Wight. The atmosphere was electric, and the opportunity to network with other local businesses and share our journey was invaluable.

While we were hopeful for a win, being announced as a Finalist was still a thrilling moment. The recognition reaffirmed our commitment to our values and the work we do. We were proud to stand alongside other exceptional businesses and celebrate the collective achievements of our community.

Reflections

One of the key lessons we learned from our journey as a Finalist in the RIWAS Isle of Wight Rural Awards is the importance of embracing every opportunity for growth and reflection. The process pushed us to critically evaluate our business practices, celebrate our successes, and identify areas for improvement. It reinforced the value of sustainability and community engagement in our operations, and reminded us that recognition isn't just about winning, but about the continuous pursuit of excellence and innovation. This experience has inspired us to keep pushing boundaries, stepping out of our comfort zone, fostering resilience, and staying true to our core values.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, we're excited to build on the momentum from being a Finalist by launching new initiatives that align with our commitment to sustainability and community engagement. We plan to introduce new eco-friendly products and expand our partnerships with local flower farms to further reduce our carbon footprint. Additionally, we're exploring innovative ways to enhance our customer experience, including workshops that educate on sustainable practices. These efforts reflect our dedication to continuous improvement and our desire to make a positive impact, both environmentally and within our local community. We can't wait to share these new developments with you and continue growing together.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the RIWAS Isle of Wight Rural Awards for this incredible recognition. A special thank you goes out to our wonderful team, our local partners, and our loyal customers who have supported us throughout this journey.

Though we didn’t win this time, the experience has been a victory in its own right. It has inspired us to continue growing, learning, and contributing to the rural charm of the Isle of Wight.

We look forward to participating in future awards and continuing our journey with even more passion and dedication. Thank you for being a part of our story, and here's to a future filled with beautiful blooms and sustainable practices!

If you are a small business and are inspired by our journey, consider entering the RIWAS Isle of Wight Rural Awards next year. It's a fantastic opportunity to highlight your business.

Much love