The red carpet was rolled out at The Sandman Signature Hotel as the creme de la creme of local businesses gathered for the third annual Society Awards.
The bubbly flowed and so did the banter as more than 200 glitzy guests gathered to celebrate the small but mighty businesses that continue to punch above their weight in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
Hosted by media expert and TV presenter Pauline Fraser, the sophisticated soiree kicked off in style with a drinks reception before guests took their seats in the stunning ballroom for the main event.
Claps and cheers rang out when Society editor Ellie House officially opened the awards, congratulating all the inspiring finalists and generous sponsors.
Electric atmosphere as winners announced
An excited hush then fell over the venue as the wait was finally over and the winners were revealed.
Held in association with Aberdeen Inspired, the awards saw 39 independent businesses across retail, wellbeing, lifestyle, and food and drink sectors shortlisted across 14 categories.
Deafening applause erupted when Grape and Grain was announced as the Bar of the Year.
Owner Jeanette Forbes was flabbergasted when Society caught up with her backstage.
Tears and celebrations as winners announced
“It’s absolutely brilliant,” she excitedly exclaimed while proudly clutching the award.
“We were closed for 13 months during Covid but we retained all of our staff all throughout that.
“It was great to open again so this award is for the team.”
Equally as ecstatic backstage was Monica McQuilter, the general manager at The Ivy Lodge which received a Highly Commended award.
“We’re super happy as we only opened in Shiprow Village about two years ago as a pop-up in a car park,” says Monica.
Wiping away tears, Jodie Bews says she was blown away that Everlong Studio & Gift Shop, the small business she runs in Alford, took home the Home and Interiors award.
“I can’t begin to explain what this means to me,” I’m lost for words,” she told Society.
“I just can’t believe it.”
Tanya Fowlie, the sales manager at Stewart Milne Homes – the company which sponsored the interiors category – was quick to congratulate Jodie and all the winners.
“Stewart Milne Homes are delighted to see the return of the Society Awards and to recognise the brilliant achievements and hard work of local businesses in Aberdeen,” says Tanya.
“Congratulations to all the 2022 winners.”
Local legend
Stunned to win the Outstanding Contribution award for her lifelong efforts in helping to run The Douglas Hotel, Mary Martin was frozen to her seat when her name was read out on stage.
Speaking to Society, she said: “I’m delighted and amazed to win this award.
“I love my job and I love Aberdeen, it’s a great city so this makes me very proud.”
Adrian Watson, the chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, which sponsored Mary’s award and the event as a whole, says it was a very inspirational evening.
“Aberdeen Inspired is proud to have sponsored the Society Awards and expectedly the entries have been of the highest quality across the board, with, of course, a huge congratulations to our winners.”
Awards for more than just the person who received them
Grinning from ear to ear, Jimmy Buchan, the director of the Amity Fish Company, and his daughter Jenna Urquhart, were buzzing with excitement to win the Food Business of the Year award.
“This award isn’t for me, I’m here representing the whole team,” said Jimmy.
“It’s not just the efforts of one person, it’s the whole team which makes us successful.”
Just as humble to win was Steve Munro who picked up the Health and Wellbeing Award.
“I can’t believe it, ” he said. “This award is for all my hardworking clients as I wouldn’t be here without them.”
Celebrations were also underway for the team at Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course who picked up the Best Social Media Presence of the Year Award while Fraserburgh-based tearoom Nooks and Crannies, took home the Casual Dining/Coffee House of the Year award.
Meanwhile, the Drinks Business of the Year went to Raw Culture Kombucha and the Eco Award was presented to the Butterfly Effect.
£1900 raised for Charlie House
The Independent Fashion/Clothes Business of the Year Award went to Midnight Elegance Bridal while the Independent Restaurant of the Year Award was presented to
Cafe Boheme with the Highly Commended Award going to Just A Wee Gift.
Other awards on the night included: Newcomer of the Year: Aberdam Dutch Fries and the Hair and Beauty Award went to Justin at Ishoka.
Throughout the evening, guests were also treated to a slap-up three-course meal, entertainment from the amazing Secret Singers and a floor-filling DJ set from DJ Home Alone.
Guests also helped to raise £1900 for the children’s charity Charlie House which supports children with life-limiting and their families.
Team Society would like to thank all the amazing sponsors who made the night happen including: Aberdeen Inspired; Original 106; Prospect 13; P&J Live; the Evening Express; Cala; Laings Directline; Temple Clinic; Gary Walker Wealth Management; Stewart Milnes Homes; Finnies the Jeweler; Dandara; Aberdeen Sports Village; Atholl Scott Financial Services.
To read more about The Society Awards 2022 and for more photos:
GALLERY: Glamorous guests dressed to impress at The Society Awards 2022
Conversation