Unfolding Excellence: The Storied Night of 2023 Sevenoaks Business Awards
The prestigious Sevenoaks Business Awards of 2023 unfurled on the evening of October 20th, orchestrated by the adept Sevenoaks Town Team, culminating in a grand gala at The Bat & Ball Centre. This contemporary haven, with its cutting-edge lighting and sound systems, perfectly encapsulated the elegance and spirit of the “black tie” event, elevating the celebration to a realm of sophistication.
Amidst a constellation of esteemed personalities, the event was graced by the insightful narratives of Michael Gietzen, the mastermind behind the iconic 2023 London New Year Fireworks. His illustrious portfolio, adorned with numerous major UK and global spectacles, resonated through the hall, adding a touch of grandeur to the evening.
Among the stars of the night were Welham Jones Funerals & Memorials, whose venture echoed through the corridors as a finalist for the coveted Independent Business of the Year Award. Although the laurel was ultimately bestowed upon The Hart Spa, the journey of Welham Jones was no less triumphant.
The epitome of the event was captured in a frame where Rebecca and Simon Welham, the dynamic daughter-father duo, were honoured with their finalist award. Standing alongside the Mayor of Sevenoaks, Cllr Claire Shea, and Councillor Tony Clayton, their smiles reflected the essence of achievement and the promise of many more accolades in the tapestry of Sevenoaks’ thriving business community.
This glittering night not only celebrated the accomplishments of the local business sphere but also hinted at the boundless potential that the future holds, painting a canvas of aspiration for many.
As a local, independent, family-run funeral director, we know the importance of putting an empathetic, compassionate face to a name, and being able to build a rapport with your funeral director. This is why it is our pleasure to introduce Tonbridge locals to Rosanna Hayward, our passionate and committed funeral arranger, overseeing our Tonbridge operations.
The price to die: how much do funerals cost in 2025?
by Simon Welham
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to rage on, there is sadly no better news when it comes to funeral costs. SunLife recently released their Cost of Dying Report 2025 and found that it is currently more expensive than ever to die. But what do these statistics really mean? Where is your – or your loved ones’ – money going? And what financing options are available to ease stress in an already emotional time?
The most popular – and most surprising – funeral songs we’ve heard
by Simon Welham
As a funeral director serving communities across West Kent and South East London, I’ve witnessed firsthand how music can profoundly shape a farewell. Whether you’re arranging a funeral in Sevenoaks, considering a pre-paid funeral plan in Tonbridge, or simply exploring options in Chislehurst and Bromley, understanding the role of music can be invaluable.