Julie Giesbrecht percolates with laughter and excitement as she speaks about winning the Premier’s People’s Choice Award in February 2015.

One year later, she recalls the long drive from Quesnel to Vancouver with her husband and four children, with her fingers crossed that she would win the award for her home-based business, Julie’s Edible Bouquets.

Hopes were realised when she was presented with the and a cheque for $1,500.

Giesbrecht says winning the award gave her a strong feeling of confidence when she realized she received more votes for her business than some established businesses from large cities.

“Being recognized provincewide, that’s what made it so mind boggling. It gave me the confidence to realize I could grow.”

Giesbrecht’s business began five years ago, when her youngest child was only six weeks old and she was inspired to try a new venture. It began with chocolate covered strawberries that she decided to arrange in a bouquet inside a mason jar that she presented as a gift to her son’s teacher. The bouquet was such a hit with other parents that she sold a dozen orders in a few days.

That early success led to a Facebook page (facebook.com) and the construction of a separate commercial kitchen in her home.

She says she was skeptical that she could win when she was nominated for a Premier’s People’s Choice Award. Giesbrecht was also nervous thinking she would have to present to a Dragon’s Den style panel. Discovering that her success depended solely on votes from her community was thrilling and that her 2,500 Facebook followers ensured the votes kept flooding in.

“Quesnel is a close-knit community with lots of support,” said Giesbrecht.

That support and community spirit runs two ways. Giesbrecht volunteers with local sports teams and with many non-profits in Quesnel.

During the past year, Giesbrecht has mentored other budding entrepreneurs in neighbouring communities who seek out her business advice and experience. She says she is happy to share the lessons she’s “learned the hard way”.

Giesbrecht says she’s looking forward to having more time to devote to her business when her youngest child starts kindergarten in September. She’s considering ideas to grow her business including mail orders.

“It’s so cool to see a small idea blossom into something so big!”

Giesbrecht continues to treasure the awards ceremony experience and time spent with family in the lower mainland last winter.

“The memories we made visiting Science World, the Vancouver Aquarium and other places in Vancouver will stick with me for the rest of my life.”