Thetford Business Awards 2026

When I first heard that Untamed Muses was nominated for the Thetford Business Awards, held at the beautiful Thomas Paine Hotel , I was genuinely just over the moon to be in the room. Look around our town, and you’ll see an incredible tapestry of talented, driven, and wonderful entrepreneurs. Just sitting and chatting with Beverly, the force behind Fun with Fabrics, left me feeling so incredibly inspired. To be counted alongside peers like her was a victory in itself.

So, to hear "Untamed Muses" called out for the Highly Respected Business Award? It was a complete and utterly beautiful surprise.

This specific award recognises enterprises that bring transformative value to Thetford. Hearing those words attached to my work completely blew me away, because "transformative" is exactly what I dreamed this business would be when it was just a spark of an idea.

More Than a Photography Experience

From day one, my mission with Untamed Muses has been much bigger than  creating gorgeous imagery. I wanted to build a women’s empowerment sanctuary. and community

We live in a world that constantly bombards women with societal pressures to look, act, and be "perfect." Untamed Muses is a rebellion against that. It is a safe space designed for women to reclaim their relationships with their bodies, build unapologetic confidence, and celebrate authenticity over perfection. Through art and community, we are breaking down those walls. It’s about helping women reclaim lost, hidden, or buried parts of themselves.

To the Women Who Trusted the Vision: Thank You

This award belongs to every single woman who has ever believed in this mission. To everyone who has stepped in front of my lens: thank you. Thank you for trusting me when you felt uncertain. Thank you for allowing me to hold space for your vulnerability. The moments we’ve shared in the studio haven’t just resulted in powerful portraits; they have created long-lasting bonds and deep friendships that I treasure every single day. You are the heartbeat of Untamed Muses.

Winning this award isn't a finish line—it’s a launching pad. I am so energised about what comes next for us and our town.

Moving forward, my big dream is to partner with local organizations right here in Thetford. I want to collaborate to lift up and strengthen our local female community through a mix of photography, art, and open, honest conversations about body image and self-worth. Together, we can create an even wider network of support for women.

Speaking of exciting local shifts, I also want to extend a huge congratulations to the Thetford Business Awards committee. While Nigel is stepping down after incredible service, I am thrilled that Skaiste from Skin Smart is stepping in. Bringing a fresh, female perspective to the board is fantastic news, and I can't wait to see the positive impact and fresh energy her leadership harvests for our business community.

Thank you again to the judges, to the organizers, to my fellow nominees, and most importantly, to the incredible muses of Thetford. We are just getting started!

With love and gratitude,

Sam xoxo

Founder, Untamed Muses