At the beginning of December we donned our black ties, braces and dresses and set off on the slightly longer journey than expected, down the M1 for an evening at the prestigious Wembley Stadium.
As anticipated the ceremony held within the Sir Bobby Moore Suite was also dressed to impress. Red carpet entrance and virtual liquid display screens by Jaguar lined our entrance to an awaiting glass of prosecco.
During our welcome drinks, we were asked if we wouldn’t mind being part of the SME (Small and medium-sized enterprises) National Awards interviews. We, of course, accepted the daunting task and quickly settled into the interview. As it progressed, we might have laughed too much so only time will tell if it appears on the website. That said when Johnny Umney, Director was asked if we might be a winner, a clear response was “100%”, absolutely no pressure!
Once the last employees and Directors of Bedford Bi-folds arrived we made our way to table 8 and sat alongside other Business Elite members from across the UK.
Whilst seated the audience was entertained by three very talented classical artists who played beautifully on their cello and violins. Once dinner was eaten, washed down with wine/beer we were then treated to a very entertaining surprise.
What followed had the audience completely stunned. One of the hosts announced the head chef was leaving and would like to sing us a song. Ok, we thought…. However, what pursued raised the roof with raucous cheering and clapping. Spellbound as operatic renditions of classical songs commenced. The audience were waving their arms, serviettes and standing up to dance. I believe even they were surprised by the impact they were having. Eventually, the masks were taken off as the host revealed that they are not really who they say they are but ‘secret event singers’.
Thankfully it didn’t end there, they gathered the crowd and took us on ‘The Road to Amarillo’ Which the staff commented was one of the longest lines they have ever seen!!
Once we had all gathered our composure and sat back down. Vick Hope, TV and Radio Presenter stepped onto the stage to commence the ceremony. For the very reason why we were there. Nerves set back in as we awaited our category. The evening was running late, and Vick had a tough job getting back up to speed.
Approximately 20 minutes later they announced ‘Family Business of the Year’ presented by Deepak Chandiramani from Delaware North. When the words “and the Silver Winners are…. Bedford Bi-folds” were spoken, all of us were completely and utterly shocked. To be a finalist was incredible but to be announced a Silver Winner with 15 other SME finalists from across the UK was astounding.
As we celebrated the Gold Award winner was announced ‘PPP Capital‘. Unfortunately, they were not present and so began the banter from Vick to get us back up on stage for the gold. Far too much fun later we can safely say the award is with PPP capital. We can also say with certainty they would have thoroughly enjoyed the evening with all other SME National Business Award Winners and Finalists. Hopefully, we’ll see them at the awards next year!
We’re proud to work as a family unit and are looking forward to 2022 with vigor after receiving award-winning recognition. After all, we are supported by amazing brands and products that are constantly driving innovation, design and engineering within the fenestration industry. To our customers, we hope we continue to support you throughout your decision-making, purchasing, installation and after-sales journey.
We would like to add a very special thank you to our partners Reynaers, Cortizo and ALUK for writing our award entry testimonials. To all the staff at Events and PR Marketing, Mind Charity, Delaware North, Vick Hope, Wembley Stadium, FM World, 123 Internet, Zipcar, Sage, Jaguar, Profile Resourcing, My Mustard, Amack Consultants, Staff within the event and the Secret Singers.
