Cheshire’s business community gathered at Cranage Hall on Friday, 15 November for the annual Crème de la Crème Business Awards, celebrating local entrepreneurial achievements with a Hollywood Glamour theme. The event was a night of glamour and recognition, attended by a host of special guests including iconic figures like Laurel & Hardy, Charlie Chaplin, and Marilyn Monroe.
The evening, founded by Joanna Scott-Aspray, also CEO of The Cheshire Club, focused on honouring the spirit of excellence, resilience, and entrepreneurial talent in Cheshire. Scott-Aspray expressed her pride in providing a platform for local businesses, adding, “I’m thrilled to welcome so many exceptional business owners and give them this platform to not only raise their visibility but also create new aspirations for 2025.”
The night also featured a charity element, with proceeds raised in support of East Cheshire Hospice. Joanna extended her gratitude to Sarah and Nick Bianchi of Arighi Bianchi and other sponsors, highlighting the importance of community support in making the event possible.
Sarah Bianchi, CEO of Arighi Bianchi, described the evening as “full of positivity and inspiration” and a true celebration of the individuals and businesses that contribute to the success of the Cheshire business community.
The coveted Overall Excellence Award, which this year was presented by Arighi Bianchi, went to Claire Steele, owner of A Stroke of Magic Hair & Beauty. Steele, who has worked tirelessly with The Christie Hospital to help breast cancer patients through areola tattooing, was honoured for her unwavering commitment to both her business and charitable work. A mother of four, Steele was overwhelmed by the recognition for her efforts to support others, particularly through the Christie’s charity work.
The night also saw the presentation of several other prestigious awards, with winners across various categories. Highlights included:
- Family Business of the Year: Malaka Smith of Lily & Rosie Cafe
- Community Champion: Claire Steele, A Stroke of Magic Hair & Beauty
- Outstanding Self Development & Growth: Stephanie Tully, Baby Club Cheshire
- Best Customer Service: Emma Jones, Cheshire Clinical Beauty
- Male of the Year: Matt Berry, Repair & Ride
- Small Business of the Year: Dr Andre and Dr Sam Brittain-Dissont, Oxford Natural Longevity & Aesthetics Clinic
- Female of the Year: Kerry Daynes
- Rising Star of the Year: Joy Bradley, JB Removals & Storage
- Most Inspirational Person of the Year: Lisa Harper
Additionally, Marcus Johnson of Urbandog Media Ltd won the Most Creative Social Media award, while Sophie Fox of The Mobberley Ice Cream Co was recognised for Best Business Start-Up.
The event concluded with a lighthearted surprise, as Gemma Donnelly was awarded Best Outfit of the Night, despite admitting her dress was a charity shop find.
Since its inception in 2021, the Crème de la Crème Business Awards have been dedicated to recognising the hard work and dedication of businesses of all sizes across Cheshire. Joanna Scott-Aspray’s vision for the awards remains clear: to give every business the recognition it deserves and to celebrate the innovation, talent, and spirit that define the Cheshire business community.
The night was a testament to the thriving entrepreneurial culture in Cheshire, where local business owners continue to inspire and lead the way in their industries.
