BRIDES and grooms are being spoiled for choice after it was confirmed last week that many of the leading independent wedding service companies are based in the Borders.

The annual Confetti Awards reward the best cake makers, caterers, florists, dress shops, outfitters, planners, ring makers, photographers, make-up artists and hair stylists from across Scotland.

And yet again several businesses in and around the Tweed Valley were shortlisted for the ceremony at the Hilton in Glasgow.

Despite dozens of leading photographers focussing in on the prestigious Confetti Awards title, Innerleithen-based Natalie Martin zoomed in on the title she had won the previous year.

Natalie's Story of Love photography service has been operating out of her High Street studio for almost six years.

And she puts much of her success down to the formative years training she received from dad, Kenny.

Natalie told us: "I was so surprised to win Photographer of the Year for a second year in a row.

"Making the top ten shortlist is an honour in itself, but to win both times I've entered is amazing.

"I was trained well by my dad - I was often out at weddings with him when I was growing up, so I owe him a lot.

"I started on my own in 2012 when a lot of my friends were getting married, and I've never looked back."

A public vote helps bring together the Confetti Awards shortlists for each category before an independent judging panel research and review each of them.

Natalie had plenty company at the glitzy bash in Glasgow as four other local companies were on the shortlists.

Carol Holness from Carol's Creations in Peebles claimed runner-up in the Florist of the Year category.

And Kirstie Notman from Signature Hair by Kirstie in Innerleithen was also named runner-up in the Hairdresser of the Year.

Amy Clancy from Peebles, who has previously been a winner and runner-up of Wedding Dress Retailer of the Year for her LA Bridal store in Galashiels, was among the finalists yet again.

Peebles make-up artist Danni Burnside was also shortlisted.

Natalie added: "We are extremely thankful to all our voters who helped us get this far and very proud of our businesses to be recognised and awarded in the prestigious Confetti Awards."