The third annual Maven Awards, held on Thursday, February 26, at The Nutshell, brought together 90 women in business for an evening of recognition, networking, and entertainment.

The event celebrates and champions the achievements of women-led businesses in the city and the wider region.

Natalie Hamer, founder of Maven, said: “The Nutshell is the perfect choice for the awards as the space itself has such warm energy.

“Guests felt truly at home, well cared for and free to enjoy themselves in such a creative, community space.”

Natalie Hamer and Louise Crockett of Defy Perfection Coaching at The Maven Awards in Winchester (Image: Philippa Gedge Photography)

The Nutshell, founded by Harriet Morris and Noël Jones, holds special significance to the awards as the duo won the Community Maven Award at the inaugural ceremony in 2024.

The evening began with a warm welcome set to live jazz from duo Molly Amour and Nigel Price.

Guests enjoyed a glass of Candover Brook and hairstyling by Harry and the Studio U team.

Award-winning magician Tim Lichfield mingled throughout the reception, performing close-up magic, whilst Trenza glitter bar added sparkle to faces.

Attendees then gathered for an awards ceremony that showcased talent across 12 categories and included a Best Dressed Award.

Natalie Hamer, Founder of Maven & Curator of the Maven Awards (Image: Philippa Gedge Photography)

Guests enjoyed food from Charlie’s Pantry, a local catering business, before the ceremony began.

Singer Rachel Chambers, a favourite from previous years, delivered a performance that had the audience on their feet and dancing.

DJ Perrell provided the backdrop beats throughout and continued with the afterparty.

2026 MAVEN AWARDS WINNERS:

Rising Maven – Sponsored by Camile Thai – Winner: Tamara Pratt,  Thrive + Wild

Eco Warrior Maven – Sponsored by Good Evans Kitchen – Winner: Melanie Lejette, Moon Moon

Creative Maven – Sponsored by Studio U & K18 – Winner: Jess Montgomery-Salter, Edis Media

Wellness & Fitness Maven – Sponsored by Beyond – Winner: Emily Taylor, Taylored Physio 

Power House Maven – Sponsored by Zoe Palmer, Travel Counsellors – Winner: Diana Sillence, Dogs Trust

Marketing Maven –  Sponsored by Maven Media – Winner: Gemma Storey, Infinity Creative

Maven in Tech – Winner: Heather King

Community Maven – Sponsored by Joanne Sumner –  Athena Network – Winner: Maddie Podstada

Rachel Chambers, singer at The Maven Awards in Winchester (Image: Philippa Gedge Photography)

Client Care Maven – Sponsored by Giuseppe Manco – Winner: Helen Moseley, New Energy Fitness

Business Maven – Sponsored by Active Bystander – Winner: Kate Llewellyn, The Content Consultancy

Inspirational Maven – Sponsored by Style Solutions by Sarah – Winner: Carla Saull, Good Wash Day

Best Dressed Maven – Sponsored by Sulkydoll Styling – Winner: Laura Bateman, Ferry + Ferry

Special Recognition Award – Winner: Louise Crockett, Defy Protection Coaching

Power House Category, Laura, Zoe, Diana & Natalie at The Maven Awards in Winchester (Image: Philippa Gedge Photography)

The Maven Awards continues to grow year on year, providing a platform to celebrate Winchester’s thriving community of female entrepreneurs and women in business.

For more information about The Maven Awards, visit www.themavenawards.com