Some of the best businesses and events in the Cayman Islands can be found at Camana Bay, with 31 of them earning honours in the Best of Cayman Islands 2023 contest.
These awards, which recognise businesses, professionals and events for being exceptional within their industry, were decided by a public nomination and voting process across several categories.
Among the 31 Camana Bay-related winners were 10 in Shopping, six in Food & Beverage, five in Services, three in Activities & Entertainment, three in Lifestyle & Beauty, two in Medical, one in Home & Garden and one in Law.
Eclipze Hair Design & Day Spa won three gold and two silver medals, emerging as the most lauded business in the Lifestyle & Beauty category.
"We are very excited to have been voted by the public for these awards because it definitely speaks towards the high standard of service we aim to provide our customers," said owner and trichologist Darla Dilbert. "I hope as we use these awards to further promote Eclipze, we can see new people walking into our salon who realise how much our current customers trust and appreciate us."
Camana Bay Cinema won silver in the Activities & Entertainment category, which General Manager Corey Randolph said reaffirms his staff's commitment to providing a fantastic experience for families.
"It's an honour to be recognised for our efforts in creating a space where families can come together, enjoy quality films and create cherished memories. This award is a validation of our team's hard work, and thank you to everyone who voted for us," said Randolph.
For many, awards like Best of Cayman Islands confirm that their customer base recognises and appreciates what they offer the community. In Camana Bay, many businesses embrace the opportunity to provide new or niche experiences. That’s the experience of the now award-winning plant-based eatery, The Edgy Vedge, which received awards in the best new restaurant, wait staff and veggie/vegan restaurant categories.
"We are thrilled to win two golds and a silver in the Best of Cayman awards during our first year of existence. To even be nominated as best new restaurant meant so much for us as a fully vegan concept, but winning it was just great," said Sian Weinzweig, co-owner of The Edgy Vedge. "I feel this really shows the world is changing and vegan food is becoming more accepted."
It's a similar story for Blackbeard's, which took home gold in the Liquor Store category. Retail Manager Helen Wong was quick to give credit to her staff.
"This accomplishment is a clear testament to the hard work and dedication in delivering an exceptional service to our customers," she said. "I couldn't be prouder to lead such a remarkable team. Here's to continuing to offer high-value customer service in the Cayman Islands."
This article was originally featured in the September/October 2023 print edition of Camana Bay Times.