October is Small Business Month! And to celebrate, we’re highlighting some of the great small businesses we have throughout the region.
Today we have a Tamworth manufacturer that makes a unique way to display medallions and ribbons, an award winning photographer in Inverell, and a fantastic jeweller in Armidale who can do amazing custom pieces.
Hang My Medals 🖥️
Tamworth’s Trish Peterson and her daughter, Belinda Cunningham, are offering locals a unique way to display their hard-earned awards with custom Medallion Hangers. Their small, family-run business provides over 60 designs, including options for sports, show animals, agriculture, and inspirational themes.
Trish’s passion for supporting her children and grandchildren’s sports led her to start this venture.
“I’ve always been involved in my girls’ and now my grandchildren’s activities,” she says.
To give back to the community, Trish and Belinda donate Medallion Hangers to local clubs and sporting fundraisers.
“We’re not in this for the money—it’s more of a hobby. We believe everyone deserves to showcase their accomplishments.”
Belinda, who also handles web design, creates custom Medallion Hangers, allowing clients to personalize their displays with names or images related to their specific activities. The business even offers custom name plaques for homes and properties.
All Medallion Hangers are made locally in Tamworth, with the business supporting other small local enterprises.
If you’re looking for a creative way to display your medals and ribbons, this local mother-daughter team is ready to help!
Melissa Bernard Photography 🖥️
Melissa Bernard Photography, based in Inverell, offers a wide range of photography services across NSW and QLD, from family portraits to weddings, real estate, business, and event photography. Melissa Bernard, a lifelong Inverell local, is passionate about capturing people’s stories through her lens.
With her husband, teenage son, and a playful 3-year-old Kelpie as her inspiration, Melissa draws from her roots growing up on a farm and her love for the land.
“I LOVE people,” she says.
“Meeting them, hearing their stories, and then being able to capture their essence in photos is what I’m most passionate about.”
Her dedication to delivering high-quality images that reflect her clients’ true personalities, combined with her continuous study to refine her skills, has earned her numerous accolades. In the 2023 Top Photographer Awards, Melissa Bernard Photography took home first place in the New England Region, third place in NSW, and ranked 35th in Australia for Photography Business of the Year. Her work has been recognized locally, nationally, and internationally, with features in magazines, newspapers, and online publications.
Melissa’s commitment to professionalism, quality, and creating a comfortable, fun experience for her clients sets her apart. Whether it’s a wedding, family session, or commercial shoot, Melissa Bernard Photography guarantees exceptional service with a friendly, down-to-earth approach.
Regarde Jewellers 🖥️
Regarde Jewellers, an independent jewellery store in Armidale, has been serving the local community for just over a year.
Owned and operated by Jermaine Peters and Richard Charlesworth, the store offers a wide selection of jewellery for all ages and occasions, including unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Jermaine, with over 10 years of experience in the jewellery industry, has a strong background as an overseas jewellery buyer and bespoke engagement ring designer. He moved to Armidale seeking a change from coastal life and is passionate about helping customers find their perfect piece.
Richard, a member of the Gold and Silversmiths Guild of Australia, brings his expertise in jewellery design and is responsible for repairs and remodelling.
Together, they run a store that not only sells jewellery but also provides personalised service to each customer. They are also assisted by their tuxedo cat, Diego, the “self-appointed director of human resources,” who is known to greet visitors in exchange for treats and chin scratches.
Regarde Jewellers offers an array of services, including custom engagement ring design, jewellery remodelling, and bespoke jewellery creation. They also provide practical services such as jewellery repairs, watch battery replacements, servicing, and pearl rethreading. A unique feature of their custom service is the use of computer rendering and 3D-printed try-on samples, allowing customers to see and feel their design before it’s finalised. It’s the ultimate try-before-you-buy in custom jewellery!
An authorised Pandora retailer, Regarde also carries popular brands like Citizen, Daniel Wellington watches, Ikecho Pearls, and the exclusive Desert Rose Pink Diamond collection.
At Regarde Jewellers, the emphasis is on creating a memorable experience for every customer, whether you’re buying a special gift or treating yourself.
Throughout October, we’ll run stories highlighting the great local businesses we have right here in our communities. This is a free service – the businesses highlighted have not paid for this story.
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