The 2016 Excellence in Business Awards Gala was held April 21, recognizing a number of Forsyth County businesses for their accomplishments and contributions.
The event was hosted by the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce in an effort to support entrepreneurship in the community. This year’s gala saw 11 finalists and six winners of various awards.
“It was a great evening,” said Jason Mock with the chamber. “We had a nice turnout of businesses all across Forsyth County, not only because they were finalists, but also because they wanted to cheer on their friends and other businesses in the community.”
There were over 65 awards nominees which, after interviews and in-person visits to businesses, were narrowed down to 11 finalists and then six winners.
“We went out and saw each of the 11 businesses for a day,” Mock said. “We got to meet those business owners and their staff and see some customers. We were able to get a good feeling about what their business is doing not only in Forsyth County but for the community in stewardship.”
The finalists were: Atlanta Dog Trainer Pet Resort, Atlanta Landscape Group, AV Excellence, Christian Brothers Automotive Cumming, Hampton Inn Cumming, My Forsyth Magazine, Regal Maid Service, Sawnee School of Ballet, Ace Hardware Forsyth, The Joint Collection at Forsyth and Thoroughbred Design Group.
Awards were given to AV Excellence for Midsize Business of the Year, Christian Brothers Automotive Cumming for New Business of the Year, Ace Hardware Forsyth for Large Business of the Year, Hampton Inn Cumming for Spirit of Forsyth, Julie Brennan with My Forsyth Magazine won the Steve Bloom Award and Small Business of the Year went to Thoroughbred Design Group.
The Spirit of Forsyth award was new this year, according to Mock. After the committee that decides who wins visited Hampton Inn, they knew a special award had to be given to the hotel.
During the event, a video was shown about each finalist. Freddy Burch with the Hampton Inn Cumming said employees who work there are superb hospitality professionals.
“We knew we needed to have an award that really embraced Forsyth County and the fact they believe in their passion about this community and helping their guests have a great experience when they come to Forsyth County,” Mock said.
This article originally appeared on the Milton Herald.
