My TWIA Experience – A Night I’ll Never Forget

On the 10th of November 2025, I attended TWIA (The Wedding Industry Awards) at the beautiful Albrighton Hall Hotel & Spa – and what a day it turned out to be.

I arrived early, planning to use the spa while waiting for the 3pm check-in. To my surprise (and relief!), my room was already ready, so I unloaded my bags and headed straight to the spa to try and calm my nerves. I was a mix of excitement and pure anxiety – the kind of feeling that sits in your chest and makes it impossible to eat. After a little relaxation, I headed back to my room to get ready for the evening.

Once dressed, I met up with some amazing suppliers and fellow cake makers downstairs. One thing I absolutely love about this industry is the people – talented, kind, hardworking individuals who understand the crazy world of weddings. The evening flew by so quickly. It felt like I barely had the chance to speak to everyone before we were being ushered into the main awards room.

And wow… the room was stunning. The atmosphere was absolutely buzzing. The wedding industry is truly amazing – stressful at times, yes, but filled with passion, dedication and heart.

The awards began, and I was cheering loudly for fellow suppliers winning their categories. Every single person there is deserving. Most of us run our businesses alone, pouring our heart and soul into our work, so being recognised is a genuine honour and a reflection of that effort.

Then the moment came. Damien stepped up to announce Cake Designer of the Year.

My heart was in my throat.

They announced the Highly Commended – which I won last year – and it wasn’t me. For a second, my brain spiralled: Did I disappoint my couples? Is my business not good enough?

It felt like an eternity before the next words came, but then I heard:

“Danielle’s Cakes Pershore.”

I froze. Then it hit me. I’d actually won.

I got up in disbelief but also with the biggest sense of pride. In just my third year of business, I’ve worked so hard to get to this point. I practically ran down the centre aisle, high-fiving suppliers on the way, before meeting Damien on stage to collect my trophy (which is absolutely beautiful, by the way!). Then came the photos on the winners’ wall – a moment I’ll never forget.

Even now, it still doesn’t feel real. I keep wondering how long it will take to sink in: Wedding Cake Designer/Maker of the Year.

Now for the slightly corny bit (but it’s 100% true) I couldn’t have done any of this without my amazing couples. Thank you for trusting me to create your wedding cakes and bring your ideas to life on such an important day. Thank you for nominating me and taking the time to complete the detailed forms TWIA send out. TWIA isn’t just a tick-box vote, they ask questions, they look at your website, socials, everything. It’s almost like a full audit of your business.

I’m also grateful to the judges – all volunteers and previous winners themselves – for believing I’m doing well. I’m not expecting to win nationals, but I’ll definitely be back next year. The process, the feedback, the community – it all helps me grow and improve.

The only way is up.

Thank you to TWIA, the judges, my couples, and everyone who has supported me in any way. You all know who you are xxx

Now to wait for the Nationals in January 2026....