DURING these uncertain times, it is more important than ever support each other.

And that is what a group of business owners from Ulverston and Barrow claim to be doing, after having convened at Shed 1 Distillery for a Covid-aware wedding photoshoot.

The meeting reportedly came about after Zoe Arnold-Bennett, co-owner Shed 1, and Tracy Wells, Tracy Wells Designer Millinery, spoke 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 Ms Wells

“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 styled by Sally Dixon, SKD Hairstylist. Janeen Newton, lent the shoot several gowns from her wedding studio, Marsha Lea Bridal Studio. Lauren Hart, Bluebell & Ivy florists, created floral displays. Amy and 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, the business owners say, without the patience and professionalism of the models: Alice, Jo and Lynne.

Zoe Arnold-Bennett, co-owner of Shed 1 Distillery maintained the move is more than just marketing, “This isn’t just about advertising ourselves," she said.

"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.”

Meanwhile, Carwyn Wenner, who launched Kindred Spirit Cocktails in 2019, said: “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."