BEVERLEY Edmondson Millinery, a small traditional millinery boutique in The Borough, Farnham, has been shortlisted as one of only six finalists nationwide for the prestigious fashion industry award Drapers Niche Independent Retailer of the Year.

Owner and creative designer and milliner Beverley was also shortlisted last year for the same award but narrowly missed out on winning. This time she has her sights set on picking up this prestigious award.

She believes winning would perfectly complement Farnham’s craft town status and highlight unique shops on Farnham’s High Street.

“The judges came out to visit us before the shortlisting process so they could see for themselves exactly what we do and offer our customers,” said Beverley.

“It is a huge honour to be nominated for a second time. Our store and what we offer is so unique. We design the hats on the premises with our clients and offer so much more than what you see on the shelves.

“Our unique selling point is about being able to consult with our clients to design and make their perfect wedding or occasion outfit come to life, accessorising them from head to toe with bespoke and customisation options for all out accessories.”

Beverley set up the business in 2007 and opened the boutique in 2010 where it has gone from strength to strength. The hats are made in her East Street studio where Beverley not only designs for her clients in store but also designs and produces headwear for other prestigious brands.

Her hats have been sent all over the world and have graced national and international fashion pages and blogs, and even appeared on heads at one particular royal wedding.

This autumn, Beverley will be launching a new range of winter fashion accessories ‘27b’, named after the address of the boutique, in an aim to slowly create all accessories in store, either own label or made in England. This collection will also be available online.

The award ceremony isn’t being held until September 14 but Beverley said: “To win would be a great way for me to see out the last few weeks of my 20s.

“My 20s have been all about my little shop and building my business. There will be big and exciting changes ahead for the business as I enter my 30s as I maximise on the skills I have acquired over the last nine years of running the business.”