In these uncertain times, it's even more important to support each other, and that's what a group of business owners from Ulverston and Barrow are doing.

On a sunny Sunday in September, they came to Ulverston's newest, most unique wedding venue, Shed 1 Distillery, for a Covid-aware wedding photoshoot. It came about after Zoe Arnold-Bennett, co-owner Shed 1, and Tracy Wells, Tracy Wells Designer Millinery, had a chat about Shed 1's new license.

“Zoe mentioned that she needed to take some wedding images of the Shed and that led to talk to some local companies”, said Tracy. “They were all enthusiastic about putting something together and the whole thing was planned and completed in a few days! Some of these businesses only launched a couple of years ago, others have been established for many years. Combined, we have over 50 years (??) of business experience: creating, running and growing their own companies.”

Tracy Wells, designed the stunning Juliette caps and fascinators. Hair was expertly styled by Sally Dixon, SKD Hairstylist. Janeen Newton, lent the shoot some stunning gowns from her wedding studio, Marsha Lea Bridal Studio. Lauren Hart, Bluebell & Ivy florists, created the beautiful floral displays. Amy & Mike Bleasdale, The BoxLA12, provided a delicious selection of savouries and cheeses. Carwyn Wenner, Kindred Spirit Cocktails, mixed up some delicious gin delights. Vicki Fryer, Orange Marmalade Photography, brought all the elements together with the images. And none of it would have been possible without the patience and professionalism of the models: Alice, Jo and Lynne.

Zoe Arnold-Bennett, co-owner of Shed 1 Distillery feels it's more than just marketing, “This isn't just about advertising ourselves. It's about getting to know each other better and building relationships. None of us know what the future holds, but we know that we are stronger together. Today has shown that, in spite of Covid and the insecurities we all feel for the future, we can still support and encourage each other.”

Carwyn Wenner launched Kindred Spirit Cocktails in 2019, “The hospitality industry has been hit hard by this pandemic and we are all finding ways to get through these difficult times. The way I see it is we have two options, look after ourselves and sink or all link arms and float together.”

Tracy Wells started a private Facebook page for the businesses involved in this and an earlier shoot. A simple and practical way to keep in touch with each other. However, it's also a space where everyone can continue to talk and ask for help. The group are hoping to arrange a similar shoot when safe to do so, on a different theme in the future. A Mad Hatter's Tea Party has been mentioned!

To find out more about the businesses that took part in the collaboration:

Tracy Wells: https://tracywellsdesignermillinery.com/
Shed 1 Distillery: https://shed1distillery.com/
Marsha Lea Bridal Studio: http://www.marshalea.co.uk/
Kindred Spirit Cocktails: https://kindredspiritcocktails.com/
Bluebell & Ivy: https://bluebellandivy.com/
Orange Marmalade Photography: https://www.facebook.com/orangemarmaladephotography/
SKD Hairstylist: https://www.facebook.com/skd.hairstylist/