'It's an honour to be recognised,' says Staffordshire award finalist keeping art of handcrafted saddlery alive

Charlotte Powell, founder of The Saddle Lady in Penkridge, has been named as a finalist for the 'Female Entrepreneur of the Year – Best Small Business' accolade at the UK Small Business Awards.

Specialising in high-quality, handcrafted saddlery, Charlotte - or Lottie as she is known - has built her business from the ground up, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design. 

Working in what is traditionally a male-dominated industry to preserve the art of saddlery, she has carved out a reputation for top workmanship - earning the trust of riders across the region and beyond and proving gender is no barrier to success. She also makes exquisite leather handbags and accessories.

She said of the nomination: “It’s an honour to be recognised alongside such incredible women in business.

“This nomination reflects not just my own hard work, but the support of my customers, my community, and of course, the horses that inspire what I do.”

Charlotte, who worked as a dedicated bench saddler in Walsall for nine years, decided to take a leap of faith and start her own business in 2022

Among Charlotte's biggest achievements was making saddles for the Ridley Scott blockbuster Gladiator II - one of her "proudest moments to date". Her work is also displayed at the Tower of London.

The UK Small Business Awards celebrate and support small businesses across the UK - exposing candidates to new opportunities and recognition via social media - and the Female Entrepreneur of the Year accolade celebrates the achievements of women who are making an impact in their industries.

The winners will be announced at an event in Birmingham on December 12.