Originally published in the July 2012 issue of the Nova Scotia Business Journal - "Best of Colchester Awards" special advertising feature
Amanda Grant threw her hands in the air, did a little dance and couldn't stop smiling all night.
Grant didn't win the lottery but there was another prize that meant a lot to her and staff at Bella Sante Holistic Health Centre and Spa on Prince Street. It was one of 26 businesses that won a Best of Colchester award at the recent Truro and District Chamber of Commerce gala which attracted about 250 attendees. All the winners were chosen during two weeks of online voting in May.
The health centre and spa won in the day spa/tanning salon category.
“I'm so excited ... we are so proud of our team and I'm surprised we won because it was the first time being nominated,” said Grant, a registered massage therapist at Bella Santa, shortly after receiving the award.
Esthetician Michelle Webb said the award means a lot in a small community.
“To have recognition in the community is fabulous because sometimes people don't know how great local businesses are.”
At the gala, the Best Western Plus Glengarry enjoyed its third consecutive win for best hotel/motel/inn.
“We were very pleased to have received the honour,” said Judy Nicholson, vice president of the Best Western Plus Glengarry on Willow Street. “Being voted for by your friends, community, business and local customers is exciting. Our terrific staff take great pride in making our guests feel like we’re their home away from home and try to exceed their expectations.”
The title of top wireless communications provider went to AML/Rogers. The honour held special meaning for Floyd Gaetz, CEO of AML Communications Inc.
“AML began with one location in Truro and has since grown to over 30 locations throughout the Maritimes and Southwestern Ontario,” he said. “Truro is where our roots are, where our head office remains. I’m very proud of store manager Gordon DeWolfe and the Truro team and proud to be part of such a great community.”
Another proud winner was Berry's Furniture Plus on Robie Street which took home top honours in the décor/furniture category.
Berry's sales representative Becky Brown said it was the second time the business, which has been a Truro tradition for more than 50 years, received a Best of Colchester award.
“It's really nice to have it two years in a row ... maybe because we have what customers need so they don't have to go outside the local community,” said Brown.
She also commended the awards gala, saying it is a great idea to gather the local business community for a positive event.
“It's wonderful to have the businesses together and it's a reminder of what we do have in Truro.”
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TIP OF THE HAT:
Automotive Service Centre - Winner: Moore’s Service Centre
Bed and Breakfast - Winner: Belgravia Bed & Breakfast
Car Dealership - Winner: Zack’s Auto Sales
Clothing Store - Winner: Elegant Steps
Coffee Shop/Café - Winner: Clay Café Truro
Computer Sales/Service/Repair/Training - Winner: G&G Computers
Customer Service - Winner: Clay Café Truro
Day Spa/Tanning Salon - Winner: Bella Santé Holistic Health Centre and Spa
Department Store - Winner: Walmart
Dining/Restaurant/Pub - Winner: Frank & Gino’s
Fast Food - Winner: Wendy’s
Financial Services - Winner: RBC Truro
Grocery Store - Winner: Sobey’s – Prince Street
Hair Salon/Barber - Winner: Head Experts Salon and Barber Shop
Health Centre - Winner: MacKinnon Fitness/Breathing Space Yoga Studio
Home Décor/Furniture - Winner: Berry’s Furniture Plus
Home-based Business - Winner: Darcy MacCallum Photography
Hotel/Motel/Inn - Winner: Best Western Plus Glengarry
Jewelry Store - Winner: Inglis Jewellers
Law Firm - Winner: Burchell MacDougall
Non-profit Organization - Winner: Colchester Christian Academy
Pet Care/Groomers/Vet/ Supplier - Winner: Central Nova Animal Hospital
Pharmacy - Winner: MacQuarries Pharmasave – Esplanade
Real Estate Services - Winner: Royal LePage Truro
Wireless Communications Provider - Winner: AML/Rogers
Most Votes Overall - Winner: Inglis Jewellers
