A DUNSTER businesswoman has been recognised for her achievements at a south-west awards ceremony at the Crowne Plaza in Plymouth.

Amanda-Louise Knight, owner of Amanda-Louise Knight Weddings Proposals and Events, was named the runner-up at the West Country Women’s Awards finals.

Amanda-Louise was presented with her certificate during the final heat ceremony and gala dinner winning second place within the Business of the Year Award category.

More than 320 guests, finalists, and sponsors from across the South West attended the event to celebrate and recognise women from all walks of life hosted by Alexis Bowater and Tess Stuber, co-founders of the West Country Women Awards.

Amanda-Louise said: “it was an absolute honour to be recognised as the only business in Somerset to get through to the finals.

“I was nominated by Tomato Creative a web designer based in West Somerset who recognised the challenges my business faced over the last couple of years during covid.

“Due to the pandemic, I almost lost my business during the lockdown, but with carefully planning I restructured the business offering not only personalised celebrant led weddings but wedding planning providing independent advice and support.

“Then came venue consultancy to any venue thinking of setting up as a wedding venue to steer them on the right track.”

The awards saw over 1,000 nominations across the South West.

Amanda-Louise added: “I’m so grateful I was nominated, it enabled me to expand the team. I so adore the south west; we have some beautiful locations. I believe that’s why my marriage proposal planning has taken off; who wouldn’t want to pop the question in some of our hidden gems that we have on our doorstep?”

Guests during the finals received a three-course dinner with gin and chocolates as favours sponsored by local companies to celebrate the talent of all the women who work in various sectors across Somerset, Devon and Cornwall.

Amanda-Louise said “as a female businesswoman its key to keep on trend of weddings and the wants and needs of couples. Anyone getting engaged can feel overwhelmed with how to plan a wedding and can often waste money in making wrong decisions too early, that’s why I offer lots of options for couples including those on a budget.”

For more information about Amanda-Louise Knight Weddings Proposals and Events or to make a free appointment visit www.alk celebrant.co.uk

You can also follow her on facebook and instagram @amanda louiseweddingsandevents