Celebrating Excellence: Meet the Winners of the Inaugural Bronte Business Impact Awards

Customer Experience Excellence Award: Lakeside Livin’ Home Décor

Some businesses create customers. Others create community.

For owner Rose Luxton and her team, exceptional customer service begins with making every visitor feel genuinely welcome. Known for her warmth, positivity, and unwavering support of fellow businesses and community initiatives, Rose has built more than a successful shop – she has created a place where people feel connected.

Congratulations to Rose, Shelley, Amy, Sadie, and Leah on this well-deserved recognition.

Emerging Business Award: AU79 COFFEE

In a short time, AU79 COFFEE has become a beloved gathering place in Bronte Village.

With exceptional coffee, vibrant artwork, jazz music, and a welcoming atmosphere, owner Peter Au has created a café experience that is uniquely its own. As one nominator beautifully described it, AU79 feels “a bit like home, only groovier.”

We look forward to watching this exciting business continue to grow.

Innovation & Adaptability Award: The FlavourFox

Resilience, creativity, and determination are at the heart of The FlavourFox.

Owner Rano successfully navigated the challenges of the pandemic by introducing innovative new products and service models, then faced another major hurdle when construction forced the relocation of her business. Through it all, she continued to adapt, evolve, and invest in her community.

Today, The FlavourFox is thriving in its beautiful new location and remains one of Bronte’s sweetest success stories.

Sustainability & Responsibility Award: Planted Aquaria

What began as a passion project for My and Tom Tran has grown into a business rooted in education, stewardship, and sustainability.

Planted Aquaria has become a trusted resource for aquatic enthusiasts, promoting responsible fishkeeping, healthy ecosystems, and environmentally conscious practices. Their commitment to quality, transparency, and lifelong learning continues to inspire customers throughout the community.

Legacy Business Award: Rainbow Expressions Salon

For 40 years, Rainbow Expressions Salon has been part of life’s biggest moments – first hair cuts, proms, weddings, graduations…and every client has been welcomed by familiar faces and treated with genuine care.

Founded in 1986 by Donna-Lee Milford and her mother Mary, the salon has built a reputation for exceptional service, lasting relationships, and a culture that feels like family. Generations of clients have trusted Rainbow Expressions to help them celebrate milestones, navigate life changes, and look their best along the way.

Four decades later, Rainbow Expressions remains a cherished Bronte institution.

Best Storefront & Curb Appeal Award: My Girlfriend’s Closet

Colourful, creative, welcoming, and impossible to miss.

Heather and her fabulous team at My Girlfriend’s Closet have transformed their storefront into one of Bronte Village’s most eye-catching destinations. Their ever-changing window displays, beautiful planters, and vibrant presentation contribute significantly to the character and charm of our streetscape.

Their commitment to sustainable fashion makes the business as impactful as it is beautiful.

Workplace Culture Excellence Award: Bronte Village Animal Hospital

Compassion and education is woven into every aspect of Bronte Village Animal Hospital.

Led by Dr. Tina McGrath, the clinic has built a culture where both animals and their families feel supported, understood, and cared for. Nominations spoke not only of exceptional veterinary expertise but of extraordinary kindness during some of life’s most difficult moments.

The trust this team has built within our community is truly remarkable.

Collaboration & Community Partnership Award: Farm Boy

Strong communities are built through partnerships, and Farm Boy has embraced that spirit from day one.

Whether serving hot chocolate, treats and smiles at the Bronte Tree Lighting Ceremony, supporting the Bronte Farmers’ Market, hosting community BBQs, or contributing to local charitable initiatives, Farm Boy continually demonstrates what it means to be an active and engaged community partner.

Their commitment to bringing people together has made a meaningful impact in Bronte and created a wonderful sense of community connection.

Community Impact Award: Catch Hospitality Group

The inaugural Community Impact Award recognizes a business whose contributions extend far beyond its own walls.

For decades, Catch Hospitality Group has helped shape the social fabric of Bronte Village. Through beloved restaurants, charitable initiatives, mentorship opportunities, employment, and community leadership, they have created spaces where memories are made and connections flourish.

From milestone celebrations and family gatherings to significant fundraising efforts supporting local charities, their impact can be felt throughout our community.

It is fitting that the very first Community Impact Award was presented to a business whose legacy is so deeply intertwined with Bronte’s story.

Customer Loyalty & Community Favourite Award: Taste of Colombia

Chosen by the community, this award reflects the deep connections a business has built with its customers.

Since opening in 2012, Taste of Colombia has become much more than a café. Through cultural programming, community events, educational opportunities, and countless acts of kindness, owner Yury Wu-Parra and her team have created a place where people gather, connect, and feel at home.

For many residents, Taste of Colombia is not simply somewhere to grab a coffee – it’s a cornerstone of community life.