A sustainable floral studio in Cumbria has been named one of three winners in a national competition providing small businesses with high-profile brand ambassadors.

Natalie Louise Seviour, founder of Blossoms and Blooms Floral Studio, will receive marketing support from double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes and former British and Irish Lions captain Brian O’Driscoll. The initiative, launched by HSBC UK, aimed to provide small firms with the promotional influence typically reserved for multinational corporations.

The competition attracted 400 entries from across the UK and was open to businesses with fewer than 20 employees. It follows research by the bank which found that 38% of small business owners lack the time or resources to reach new customers, with one in three struggling to promote their brand effectively.

Based in the North West, Blossoms and Blooms specialises in sustainable weddings and events, focusing on British-grown flowers. Ms Seviour, who operates as a sole trader, was selected alongside hair extension retailer The Canerow Company in Essex and LA-Pop, a Birmingham-based gelato café.

The winners have filmed bespoke promotional advertisements with the two sporting stars to showcase their businesses to a wider audience.

Natalie Louise Seviour, Founder of Blossoms and Blooms Floral Studio, said: "To be selected as one of the winners from so many entries feels incredible. I’m a new business owner working alone, so having this level of support is something I could only have dreamed of.

"My business is rooted in sustainability and in honouring my mum’s encouragement to ‘do what makes you happy’. This opportunity gives me a platform to share that story and hopefully inspire others to follow their passion."

The judging panel included both ambassadors and Tom Wood, Head of Business Banking at HSBC UK. The bank recently introduced measures to support the sector, including the removal of monthly fees on its Small Business Banking Account in July 2025.

Tom Wood said: "Small businesses can face challenges trying to reach new customers. Our competition has given these businesses the sort of opportunity usually reserved for major brands.

"With nearly 400 entries, narrowing it down to just three winners was incredibly difficult. The quality and resilience on display was amazing."

Brian O’Driscoll added: "This prize isn’t just about promotion, it’s about recognising the courage, resilience and belief it takes to build a business from the ground up. Natalie, Jacqueline, Abdul and Anum are talented founders, creating impact in their communities."