Business awards can sometimes feel like popularity contests rather than accurate gauges of success and ability. Or so Caryn Barling felt before deciding to nominate Something Beautiful Remains for the inaugural Bayside Local Business Awards. However, as she began the process, she realised it was intensive and definitely required genuine merit to win.
And we’re happy to announce that Something Beautiful Remains did, in fact, walk away with the win for Outstanding Professional Services at the presentation held at the Novotel Sydney Brighton Beach on October 17.
“The Local Business Awards wasn’t just about votes. We are so completely honoured to have ticked all the boxes for the judging panel,” says Caryn.
Bayside Local Business Awards
In 2023, the Local Business Awards came to Bayside Council for the first time. The professional services category received nominations from over 80 local businesses, with 15 becoming finalists. To name a winner, the judging panel considers the business website, submission details and Google reviews, in addition to public votes via a link.
“I did appeal to all my clients to spare 30 seconds to vote for us, which many were happy to do, but we also went into great detail in our submission about who we are and what we do, including our ‘no rules’ philosophy for personalised funeral services.”
When accepting this award, Phil gave a touching speech in tribute to their clients, and to Caryn for her work at Something Beautiful Remains.
“I would firstly like to thank our families, for allowing us into their homes and for bestowing their trust during this most difficult time.
“As a funeral director, we shine the spotlight on the person who has passed away. We’re not seen. We work seamlessly behind the scenes. Having said that, Caryn is the driving force behind Something Beautiful Remains. This is her dream, her passion. Darling, look what you did.
It’s a team effort
Our employees at Something Beautiful Remains, quite rightly feel like the award-winning team that they are.
“We couldn’t do it without them,” says Caryn, “They help to represent us on the day of the service. They will take over a glass of water or hand out tissues. They’re also my ears while I’m engaged with conducting the service, but they’ll listen and tell me the feedback.”
We select staff for their compassion, empathy and calmness, nurturing those new to the industry with background roles until they’re confident. Our diverse team includes male and female members, as well as First Nations people and foreign-language speakers, and they all embrace our values of providing impeccable service and honouring each individual’s life.
A well-deserved acknowledgement
Dogs truly are our best friends, offering a unique form of therapy unmatched by people. We are with families during their most challenging moments, so it’s deeply heartwarming to have a Branch Manager like Izzy who can provide love, support and comfort. We extend our gratitude, as well as some extra treats, to Izzy for her dedicated service.
A beautiful mission
While we witness grief and sadness because goodbyes are never easy, we also see families coming together in unity, to honour good, honest lives, and loved ones finding peace and closure. Often, funerals bring about expressions of gratitude, forgiveness and a celebration of the good times.
Our point of difference lies in our commitment to providing exceptionally personalised funeral services tailored to the unique qualities of each individual. This is what resonates with our clients, and that’s why their referrals are our most significant source of new clients. When you turn to Something Beautiful Remains in your time of grief, you become part of our family – and our family is very loyal.
Winning awards is certainly a wonderful feeling, and we’re truly humbled by our success at the Bayside Local Business Awards. However, the most important reward for us is knowing that we’ve helped every one of our families to say goodbye in a way that truly matters to them.
“It’s great to be acknowledged for what we do every day, but this is not about us.”
Our business is not about us. It’s about you.
At Something Beautiful Remains, people often ask how we do it. The answer is simple, we do it for you. Caryn and Phil have been in your shoes. They’ve experienced their own grief and know that in this vulnerable moment, clear thinking can be challenging. They are here to serve as your trusted advisors.
We will guide you through this process, ensuring that you remember and celebrate your loved one in a way that truly honours them. We take care of all the details, allowing you to focus on what matters most. Whether you opt for a traditional church farewell or a fishing trip to your loved one’s favourite spot, we’ll make it a reality.
If you’ve lost someone you love, reach out to Caryn or Phil, they’re available any time, 24 hours a day, every day.
