Maria Leese, owner of independent shoe shop Doris & Daisy, won through to the finals of the Dorset Business Woman of the Year. The category was sponsored by Barclays Bank and won an unprecedented level of entries from leading business women based in Dorset.
Maria said:”As the owner of a small business it was a real honour to get through to the final round, especially as I was up against some very strong and well established companies.
The head of the judging panel, Robert Jones, Director at Barclays Wealth said:”Doris and Daisy is an independent shoe company with a shop in Wimborne and a fast growing internet presence.
“The judges liked Maria’s passion for her business, clients and staff and were impressed with the way in which she balanced her time between her moves into the online market, while running a highly polished high street shop.
“Maria was also able to demonstrate how she keeps herself deeply involved with good causes for the benefit of her local community.”
Maria’s fellow finalist’s, were Georgina Hurcombe of LoveLove Films, Bournemouth and Jo Cruickshanks of Folk in Poole.
Maria is the largest stockist of Josef Seibel in Dorset. Other brands include Cara, Pikolinos, Riva, Van Dal, HB of Italy and Softwaves.
She is also building a range of bridal shoes from Rainbow Club plus lovely shoes from Geox, Lotus and Van Dal.
Last year Maria reached the final of the Retail Excellence Award in Dorset. In 2011 Doris & Daisy was named as Best Newcomer by trade bible Footwear Today.
For more information please contact:
Maria Leese
Doris & Daisy
43-44a East Street
Wimborne
Dorset
BH21 1DX
01202 880222
