A INDEPENDENT branding and photography business based in Chester has been recognised as one of the nation's 100 most impressive small firms.

Sarah White Branding & Photography, has been selected to feature in the Small Business Saturday UK campaign as one of the SmallBiz100 lineup, featuring 100 of the most inspiring independent businesses from across the UK.

The firm, which was founded by Sarah after lockdown in 2020, offers mentoring and practical support to small business owners regarding brand confidence and visibility.

"I’m thrilled to have been selected as part of this campaign," said Sarah, who lives in the city's Garden Quarter. "My business is all about empowering other business owners to be visible as the face of their brand, so this is a fantastic opportunity for me to walk the walk and inspire others to feel comfortable in the spotlight."

Sarah has worked with several ethical and sustainable small businesses in Chester and Cheshire over the past three years. She also hosts networking and 'netwalk' events for local businesswomen, and volunteers for local children’s charity KidsBank Chester.

"I really empathise with women who love what they do, but don’t love shouting about it," she added. "Before lockdown, I held myself back for years – getting in my own way. It was only when I started to embrace my unique qualities and personality traits that I started to attract the right customers. It’s been wonderful to help other female business owners in Chester and Cheshire go on that journey of self-acceptance too. My message is: ‘You can have success and grow your business by being you’. This recognition from Small Business Saturday proves it."

Sarah White Branding & Photography will be profiled by the campaign on 1 October 2023 as part of the 100-day countdown to Small Business Saturday UK. Two other Chester-based businesses, The Naughty Badger Bistro and ePay Merchant Services, also feature in the lineup.

"It’s fantastic to celebrate Sarah White Branding & Photography as part of this year’s campaign," said Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK.

"The impressive small businesses featured in this year’s SmallBiz100 sum up the phenomenal contribution that small firms make to our economy and local communities."

Small Business Saturday will return on December 2, 2023, with a mission to support and celebrate the UK’s 5.5 million small businesses. With small firms facing huge challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis, the campaign is more vital than ever as it moves into its second decade in the UK.

Originally founded by American Express in the US in 2010, the brand remains the principal supporter of the campaign in the UK.

For further information about the event, and how to get involved, visit: smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com.

Further information about Sarah White Branding & Photography can be found on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.