A Liverpool businesswoman has bagged an award from Dragons' Den star Theo Paphitis.
Founder of Liverpool-based company For Dogs’ Sake Treats, Celia McDonald, is celebrating the win after the entrepreneur and TV star wished her business "every success".
Celia, from Allerton, sells a range of dog treats that have proved popular, securing her a coveted Small Business Sunday award.
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Of the win, Celia, 53, said: "I am 53-years-old and went from architect to being crowned as 'Queen of dog cakes' and being invited for high tea at the House of Lords.
"The mission of my small business is to supply fresh handmade, healthy products - with no hidden fillers or nasties - to improve both the lives of the dogs and their families. Promoting happy memories with healthy products within a healthy diet can improve dogs' behaviour, health and build bonds between pups and their pup-parents."
Celia's business also includes art so pet owners can immortalise their beloved furry friends.
She continued: "I not only bake fresh dog cakes and treats, but I also draw 'pawtraits' to remember these loyal friends - for which there is a constant waiting list - [and I] sell practical, attractive dog walking bags and so much more dog-related goodies.
"I won the Dragons' Den star's Small Business Sunday award in September 2021 and was presented with my certificate on Friday 25 th February at the ICC in Birmingham, where I was able to network with other small businesses, get 1:1 mentoring and attend some very informative talks - including one from Theo himself and current Dragon, Touker Suleyman."
Explaining how she managed to secure the entrepreneur's attention, Celia explained: "In September 2021, as owner of For Dogs’ Sake Treats, I tweeted Theo about my business and gained a retweet by Theo to his near half a million Twitter followers.
"I’m a one woman, one dog business, working out of my domestic kitchen, which is inspected annually by APHA. It is great to have support from Theo because it’s been tough trying to raise our profile.
"During the pandemic, it was a struggle as a small business trying to get baking supplies, or working from home with the entire family trying to study and work there too, or not being able to hand deliver. Theo has recognised our hard work and helped spread the word about what we do to his following."
Theo Paphitis added: "We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK.
"My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS re-tweet from me becomes part of a friendly club; like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings. The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish For Dogs’ Sake Treats every success."
Find out more about For Dogs' Sake Treats by clicking here.
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