Dorset Wedding Supplier Awards

Seven south and west Dorset firms have been shortlisted for the county awards, which are organised by Something Borrowed Magazine.

The awards have been created to acknowledge all the people who work within the wedding industry within the county.

The winners will be announced at a Bournemouth Pavilion ceremony on November 21.

Mark Gerrard, who runs Weymouth-based Pegasus Discos is nominated in the entertainment/musical category.

He said: “I was originally just going to be the compere at the ceremony but my wife suggested I should enter. I get to work there as well as be nominated so it’s a win-win situation for me.”

Claire Bowring, of Claire Bowring Beauty & Make-Up, is nominated in the Wedding Make-Up category.

The freelance make-up artist is based in south Dorset and works across the south west.

Claire has been a make-up artist for 10 years and has been running her business for four years. She said: “I was completely shocked to be nominated, not for one minute did I think I would make it as a finalist.”

Poundbury-based Linus Moran, of Linus Moran Photography, has been nominated in the photographer category.

He set up his wedding photography business after working as a photojournalist in Bulgaria for four years. He said: “It’s a hard business to be in because there is so much competition.

“I try and do different things like audio and film to get myself heard above the rabble.

“I was quite surprised to be nominated – it would be nice if a few of us from this area managed to bring home some awards.”

Dorchester wedding shop Wedding Time, has been shortlisted in the attire category.

The High East Street store has been in existence for 30 years, with Tracy Carroll taking it over 21 years ago.

She said: “It’s lovely to get a nomination. We’re going to have a fantastic time on the night and if we get anywhere that’s a bonus.”

Also nominated are Wedding Cakes by Lisa Notley, based at Pulham, Poundbury Florists and Angel Cake Company of Poundbury.