Bridal Transport winners: Ian Yabsley and Dan Evans of Clipper Limousines

Kiama businesses have again been recommended by brides from throughout the South Coast and Illawarra region, in the annual Brides’ Choice Awards.

“These awards mean a lot as they are decided by a big survey of brides using the various services, rather than through self-nomination,” says Ian Yabsley.

The business he owns with partner Dan Evans, Clipper Limousines, has won the Transport award for the third time in four years. In the other year they were highly commended.

Their two restored Ansair Flxible Clipper buses are a popular choice for ferrying bridal parties around in lounge-like surrounds.

“Up to 14 people can travel together, rather than being split into different vehicles,” says Ian.

“We really enjoy our role being around happy people, making the most of each other’s company.

“The majority of our bookings come from word of mouth. We only service from Wollongong to Nowra, and we are booked out throughout the wedding season.”

The buses are a passion for both Ian and Dan, who spent 2-3000 hours restoring them from rusty old shells.

“They were Australian built to an American design for Ansett, which was looking to set up a clipper fleet here,” says Ian.

One hundred and thirty one of them were built, and 30 are still on the road.

Other local businesses category winners were Summa Cakes and Making Faces Makeup Studio.

Six wedding venues in the Kiama LGA were highly commended by the brides: Sebel Harbourside Kiama, Mecure Gerringong, Jamberoo Resort, Bush Bank, The Pavilion Kiama and Crooked River Winery.