Society Awards 2022
Here we go again. Yes, really!
When we were forced to postpone The Society Awards, in association with Aberdeen Inspired, earlier this year, we knew we’d be back.
Nothing stays the same, and we’re looking at a completely different landscape in comparison to the start of 2022.
The Finalists have been announced. You can find out the shortlist for each category below.
The Society Awards are judged by our panel of judges, who you can see below.
We’ll see you in November, as we get ready to celebrate the wonderful people of the north-east.
New categories, new judges, because sometimes change is just what you need to embrace all that you have achieved.
For more information please contact jillian.jappy@ajl.co.uk
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Society Awards 2022 are proud to be supporting Charlie House.
Shortlist
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1
Sponsored By:
- Grape & Grain
- Ivy Lodge Aberdeen
- The Noose and Monkey
Sponsored By:
1
BAR OF THE YEAR
A well-known spot in Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire. This bar will boast regular clientele and a fantastic, diverse range of drinks. From fabulous cocktail menus, to quirky drinks trees, not to mention a solid core offering of ice cold beers, this vibrant bar will be bustling with party-goers. Staff will provide a friendly service and put customers’ needs first. Plus they’ll have a good knowledge of the local drinks industry and all it has to offer, knowing what’s hot and what’s not.
Shortlist
- Grape & Grain
- Ivy Lodge Aberdeen
- The Noose and Monkey
-
2
Sponsored By:
- ABERDAM Dutch Fries
- Meldrum House Country House Hotel & Golf Course
- Rooted
Sponsored By:
2
BEST SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE OF THE YEAR
The award is open to any company or individual who is able to demonstrate an innovative and effective use of social media, which has been used as a key tool to developing their business. From using Instagram stories, to daily Facebook posts or tweets, to strong use of video, the winner of this award will have a strong targeted following who engage regularly online. Screenshots must be supplied to showcase this.
Shortlist
- ABERDAM Dutch Fries
- Meldrum House Country House Hotel & Golf Course
- Rooted
-
3
Sponsored By:
- ABERDAM Dutch Fries
- Figment
- Nooks & Crannies Tea Room Fraserburgh
Sponsored By:
3
CASUAL DINING/ COFFEE HOUSE OF THE YEAR
A hub of the local community offering a relaxed and homely atmosphere, regular clientele will be a testament to the success of the business. Although the food offering may be simple and quick to prepare, the quality will not be any less than perfect. The ideal place to catch up with friends, or cosy up with a hot cuppa and a copy of the latest Society, this eatery is like a home offering great value for money. The winner of this award will be based in Aberdeen or the Shire.
Shortlist
- ABERDAM Dutch Fries
- Figment
- Nooks & Crannies Tea Room Fraserburgh
-
4
Sponsored By:
- Cabezon Beverage
- Figment Coffee Company Limited
- Raw Culture Ltd
Sponsored By:
4
DRINKS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Exceling in their field of expertise, the award for a business in Aberdeen or the Shire which is successfully selling within the region – possibly even expanding further afield. From home brewers to established distillers the winner of this category will boast a stand-out brand.
Shortlist
- Cabezon Beverage
- Figment Coffee Company Limited
- Raw Culture Ltd
-
5
Sponsored By:
- Butterfly Effect
- Highland Moss
- The Liberty Kitchen
Sponsored By:
5
ECO AWARD
An independent business in Aberdeen or the Shire considerable strides to be environmentally friendly both in offerings to customers and how the business is ran day to day.
Shortlist
- Butterfly Effect
- Highland Moss
- The Liberty Kitchen
-
6
Sponsored By:
- Amity Fish Company
- Haigs Food Hall
- Mearns Marmalades
Sponsored By:
6
FOOD BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
From producing their own products to serving up dishes using some of the best local produce, this award is for any business in Aberdeen or the Shire that satisfies the appetite of hungry north-east customers. From small businesses or larger firms with products stocked in stores, to restaurants who have adapted their business models to continue trading through difficult times. The winner of this category will be passionate about what they do, and will have established an exciting brand with loyal customers. Not only will they champion what they do, but they will be adaptable to market trends too.
Shortlist
- Amity Fish Company
- Haigs Food Hall
- Mearns Marmalades
-
7
Sponsored By:
- Hive + Co - Collaborative Salon
- Justin at Ishoka
- The Studio by Sammy Mac
Sponsored By:
7
HAIR & BEAUTY AWARD
A hairdresser is like a good friend – they listen to our problems, offer us advice and generally make us feel good about ourselves. This award recognises not only those who can provide a sleek cut or brighten up tired tresses, but those have continued to engage with customers despite hard times. This category is also open to beauticians, nail artists, MUAs and salons that provide any kind of beauty treatments in Aberdeen and the Shire.
Shortlist
- Hive + Co - Collaborative Salon
- Justin at Ishoka
- The Studio by Sammy Mac
-
8
Sponsored By:
- MSK Therapy Training Ltd
- Sport Aberdeen
- Steve Munro Fitness
Sponsored By:
8
HEALTH AND WELL-BEING AWARD
This category is open to any individual or business in Aberdeen or the Shire which has made a conscious effort to take care of the north-east both physically and mentally too. From leisure facilities to personal trainers and those who offer alternative therapies, alongside fitness studios, the winner must be passionate and clear on what they offer.
Shortlist
- MSK Therapy Training Ltd
- Sport Aberdeen
- Steve Munro Fitness
-
9
Sponsored By:
- Everlongart Studio & Gift Shop
- Gemma Bertolotto Interiors
- NYC Bathrooms
Sponsored By:
9
HOME & INTERIORS AWARD
An independent business in Aberdeen or the Shire which offers a service aimed at enabling customers to create a place they can call home.
Shortlist
- Everlongart Studio & Gift Shop
- Gemma Bertolotto Interiors
- NYC Bathrooms
-
10
Sponsored By:
- Midnight Elegance Bridal
- Style for Your Shape
- Swish Swish Bish
Sponsored By:
10
INDEPENDENT FASHION/CLOTHES BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
An independent business located in Aberdeen or the Shire either online or based at a premises which offer a considerable choice in clothing in a bid to style people of the north-east.
Shortlist
- Midnight Elegance Bridal
- Style for Your Shape
- Swish Swish Bish
-
11
Sponsored By:
- Cafe Boheme
- The Garlogie Inn
- Kirk View Cafe
Sponsored By:
11
INDEPENDENT RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
A restaurant in Aberdeen or Aberdeenshire which offers an inventive menu and excellent hospitality to its customers.
Shortlist
- Cafe Boheme
- The Garlogie Inn
- Kirk View Cafe
-
12
Sponsored By:
- Boozy Events
- Just a wee gift
- Paper & Petals
Sponsored By:
12
MOST ADAPTABLE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
A business in Aberdeen or the Shire which has a proven record of changing direction in order to adapt, be that to post pandemic demands or the changing hospitality landscape in general. This business should move with the latest trends without breaking a sweat, and show a willingness to move with the times.
Shortlist
- Boozy Events
- Just a wee gift
- Paper & Petals
-
13
Sponsored By:
- ABERDAM Dutch Fries
- Highland Moss
- Style for your Shape
Sponsored By:
13
NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR
A new independent business in Aberdeen or the Shire which has been launched no earlier than January 2020. The winner of this award will have an amazing story to tell with regards to setting up a new business in the toughest of circumstances, and how they have gone on to flourish. Perhaps you’ve made the most of difficult circumstances, spotted a gap in the market or used redundancy to find your passion.
Shortlist
- ABERDAM Dutch Fries
- Highland Moss
- Style for your Shape
-
14
Sponsored By:
Read More
Sponsored By:
14
JUDGES’ CHOICE – OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION
The Society Outstanding Contribution Award will be awarded at the discretion of the judging panel. The award reflects on the extraordinary contribution by an individual or business to the local community . The winner must inspire others, build relationships and have a clear vision.
Event Partners
Aberdeen Inspired is the multi-award winning Business Improvement District for Aberdeen City Centre and represents over 900 businesses. Our aims are wide ranging and designed to reinvigorate the city centre for the benefit of all who work, live, shop and visit. Our focus is to ensure a significant return for our levy payer’s investment and to represent our local businesses with a single voice to realise the city’s potential and encourage positive change.
We aim to revitalise and re-stimulate Aberdeen city centre for a long-term sustainable future, to recapture its status and competitive edge in order to influence footfall, tourism, business and spend. Aberdeen Inspired is also an integral partner in driving the city centre master plan forward.
Some of our previous projects include delivering the third edition of the global award winning street art festival, Nuart Aberdeen, the Aberdeen International Comedy Festival, the Christmas Village, Aberdeen Restaurant Week, Inspired Nights on the Green and Alive After Five, which had done much to enhance our great city’s reputation for great events and festivals.
Of course much of this is currently on ‘hold’, but we have quickly realigned our priorities to maximise support for our businesses on the ground, at a time when it is most needed, and continue to play a leading role in the wider partner city centre business recovery plan.
Visit Aberdeen Inspired website
Aberdeen Inspired is the multi-award winning Business Improvement District for Aberdeen City Centre and represents over 900 businesses. Our aims are wide ranging and designed to reinvigorate the city centre for the benefit of all who work, live, shop and visit. Our focus is to ensure a significant return for our levy payer’s investment and to represent our local businesses with a single voice to realise the city’s potential and encourage positive change.
We aim to revitalise and re-stimulate Aberdeen city centre for a long-term sustainable future, to recapture its status and competitive edge in order to influence footfall, tourism, business and spend. Aberdeen Inspired is also an integral partner in driving the city centre master plan forward.
Some of our previous projects include delivering the third edition of the global award winning street art festival, Nuart Aberdeen, the Aberdeen International Comedy Festival, the Christmas Village, Aberdeen Restaurant Week, Inspired Nights on the Green and Alive After Five, which had done much to enhance our great city’s reputation for great events and festivals.
Of course much of this is currently on ‘hold’, but we have quickly realigned our priorities to maximise support for our businesses on the ground, at a time when it is most needed, and continue to play a leading role in the wider partner city centre business recovery plan.
Visit Aberdeen Inspired websiteAberdeen Sports Village is Scotland’s premier sports, fitness and lifestyle venue and exists as the home for sport in the beautiful city of Aberdeen
From hosting international sports events, offering multiple sports facilities including a 400m athletics track and indoor athletics facility, to an Olympic standard Aquatics Centre, the gym, exercise and lifestyle classes – the village offers a truly inspirational space for all.
Visit Aberdeen Sports Village websiteAtholl Scott Financial Services have provided high quality financial planning assistance to individuals and small businesses for over 30 years. We pride ourselves on providing clear, transparent, holistic advice in wealth management and retirement planning, developing long standing and inter-generational client relationships
Visit Atholl Scott Financial Services websiteCALA, Aberdeen’s leading homebuilder, have a long and proud heritage in the city from our inception as the City of Aberdeen Land Association (CALA) in 1875 and the first Scottish company to be listed on the London Stock Market to today becoming one of the UK’s largest national homebuilders delivering over 2,000 new homes in 2021. Despite a UK footprint, Aberdeen remains at our heart where creating high quality homes that come together to make great communities within the best locations and addresses in our region are what our reputation is built on.
Visit CALA websiteCreating and building beautiful award-winning homes is what we do at Dandara. Homes that combine innovative design with only the highest standards of quality.
It’s something we have been doing for over 30 years, but that’s not us in a nutshell – there’s our dedication to you. With us, you’ll receive an exceptional level of service all the way through your buying and moving journey; from the moment we meet until after you’ve moved in.
It’s part of the reason why we’re one of the UK’s most respected private housebuilders. And so is how we work with local communities to ensure our homes are designed in such a way that they enhance and complement their surroundings beautifully.
We do all that we do so you can own a home you’ll love living in for years to come.
Visit Dandara websiteThe Evening Express, Scotland’s biggest selling evening newspaper, produces unrivalled coverage of local news and sport in the north-east of Scotland. Our team of reporters ensures readers are informed of anything that affects them and are primed to react to every breaking incident across the area. Whether it’s the latest development at the Town House or a major, developing story we’re there seven days a week to bring the news everyone wants to read about. The Evening Express features more coverage of our city’s main football club, Aberdeen FC, than anyone else, with our sports team also reporting on Peterhead FC, Cove Rangers, the Highland League and all other local sports. We’ve got the best sport columnists to be had in the north-east, with Dons legends Willie Miller, Joe Harper and Scotland captain Rachel Corsie giving their frank and honest views on anything sport-related.
Visit Evening Express websiteFinnies the Jewellers is an independent family jewellers located in the heart of the city centre in Aberdeen, Scotland. We are pleased to offer a very special collection of jewellery including rings, bracelets, earrings and necklaces to suit any taste. We try our very best to meet the needs of our customers and in store and on-line is a selection of homeware, giftware and corporate gifts available for personalisation to reflect the occasion.
Additionally, we stock a number of ladies and gents watch brands including Bell & Ross, Breitling, Cartier, Chanel, Chopard, Citizen, Frederique Constant, Gucci, Hugo Boss, IWC, Longines, Omega, Rado, Raymond Weil, Seiko, Tissot and Tudor.
At Finnies, we cherish our customers and enjoy the learning experience that we get from every person that walks through our door. We encourage your feedback to assist in our development and thank you for being part of our history and helping us get to where we are today
Visit Finnies the Jeweller websiteGary Walker Wealth Management provides expert financial advice to help individuals, families and businesses achieve their financial goals, building long-lasting relationships that supports their plans as they change.
We provide advice in the areas of investment planning, retirement planning, protecting your wealth, inheritance tax planning and intergenerational planning. We also have a real passion for Financial Education & Wellbeing which we deliver to workplaces and schools in the local community through our bespoke programme.
We offer a local, friendly service backed by the strength and security of a FTSE 100 company, St. James’s Place.
Founded in 2004 in Aberdeen, we are a Principal Partner Practice of St. James’s Place.
At Laings Directline we have been delivering stunning kitchens and bathrooms using quality products, from leading brands, at everyday low prices since 2010. Part of a business with 160 years of history, our parent company Laings has been in business since 1862. Our ethos is to provide affordable luxury, with our expert design team combining their knowledge and creativity to make the most of your space within your budget.
Visit Laings Directline website
Original 106, the local radio station for Aberdeen and the North East
With fun, banter and competitions to keep the North East happy all day long. Start your day with the BIG Breakfast with Claire & Craig, – through mid-morning with Martin Ingram, our Maximum Music Hour, then the lift home with McCully, – there’s always plenty going on.
Original 106 is available on FM, DAB, and online (website, app and smart speaker).
Our mix of great music, news and sports news keeps you up to date with everything you need to help you through the day.
Original 106 is available on FM, DAB, and online (website, app and smart speaker).
Visit Original 106 website
P&J Live is proud to sponsor the Aberdeen Sports Awards and wish all attendees a wonderful event. As Aberdeen’s premier events venue, we boast 48,000 sqm of flexible event space and are gearing up for a busy year ahead, packed full of live entertainment and corporate events. Don’t forget to keep up to date with our event listings at www.pandjlive.com and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon to enjoy our captivating line-up this year and into 2023.
Visit P&J Live website
Prospect 13 is Scotland’s first virtual marketing agency based in Aberdeen virtually supporting a global client base.
For many businesses, having a full time in house Marketing Manager is wishful thinking and for smaller businesses, it is often not necessary. But the skills an experienced Marketing Manager can provide you are essential for sustainable business growth.
Providing on-demand access to a wide range of marketing agency services, Prospect 13 is a hugely effective alternative to hiring a marketing specialist or working with agencies on a project by project basis.
Using an experienced virtual marketing professional, the flexible service allows clients’ the opportunity to tap into a range of marketing support activities to overcome growth challenges. Whether this is for a couple of hours, a day or week each month, the virtual marketing service offers the value and benefits of having an in-house marketing resource dedicated to understanding your business and objectives, acting like an extension to your team.
Visit Prospect 13 websiteLocated in one of Aberdeen’s most historic buildings, in the heart of the Granite City, lies Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel & Spa. Situated in the former Robert Gordon University, St Andrews Street Campus the historic building contributes to the architectural landscape of the city centre.
With 218 beautifully appointed guest rooms including Executive Bedrooms, Studios and Two-Bedroom Suites, there’s truly something for everyone.
Relax and unwind in our brand-new Signature Spa, complete with beautiful individual treatment rooms, an Infra-Red sauna and steam room, bespoke manicure and pedicure room, a relaxation area and spacious fitness suite – enjoy a tranquil haven in the heart of the city.
Elsewhere in the property, amenities include state-of-the-art meeting and conference facilities, a grand ballroom and a fully equipped fitness room. Alongside parking options and complimentary high-speed Internet.
Enjoy our on-site restaurant, Chop Grill & Bar, where fresh ingredients, hand-crafted cocktails, a warm smile and lively atmosphere make for a great experience, day and night. Whisky lover? Enjoy a wee dram in our cosy specialist whisky bar, Freedom an’ Whisky where the ‘water of life’ runs.
Visit Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel websiteWhere fresh ingredients, hand-crafted cocktails, a warm smile and lively atmosphere make for a great experience, day and night.
Located on the corner of St Andrew Street and Charlotte Street in the Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel, we’re open and ready to welcome you to your new favourite place to be in the city centre. Chop Aberdeen is committed to bringing you classic Canadian hospitality paired with delicious, original food and drink. Book your table online now, and we also offer bookings for larger corporate or special events.
Visit Chop Grill & Bar websiteWe’re one of the UK’s leading independent homebuilding, construction and development companies, established in 1975 and still family owned.
We pride ourselves on having built a team of skilled experts you can trust to create quality homes. Many of our neighbourhoods and houses have won awards, testament to the quality of their design and the thought that goes into their planning.
Our designers vision is for neighbourhoods that feature attractive materials and blend seamlessly with their surroundings.
At the heart of what we do is our passion for creating places that people will love and cherish and are proud to call home.
Visit Stewart Milne Homes websiteProviding only clinically proven treatments to enhance your appearance and quality of life.
Nestled in a quiet city centre square, the multi award winning Temple Clinic has been treating its patients since 2004. Whether you have concerns with your skin, premature ageing or controlling your weight our clinic services start with a full medical consultation to establish your needs. You will only be recommended and advised on treatment options which are most appropriate for you.
Visit Temple Clinic websiteJudges
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Ellie House
Editor, Society Magazine
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Adrian Watson
Chief Executive, Aberdeen Inspired
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Gary McDonald
Market Development Manager, Opportunity North East
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Ros Studd
Fashion/Textiles Tutor, Co-Founder of Repair What You Wear
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Amy Singer
Illustrator and Retailer, CloudyBlue
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Rebecca Carr
Owner, Rebecca Carr Hair Salon
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Dr Sam Robson
Medical Director Temple Clinic
Visit Website