Poole BID’s VIP Competition Winners Enjoy a Luxurious Weekend Getaway
Poole Business Improvement District (BID) recently organised a treat for the lucky winners of its competition, Laura and Dan from Plymouth, to an unforgettable weekend exploring the best of Poole’s hospitality, shopping, and cultural experiences. The competition, launched earlier this year, invited participants to share how they met their loved one and highlight any romantic or quirky details about their relationship. The response was overwhelming, with over 1,900 entries received, each sharing a unique and heartwarming love story.
The winning couple was welcomed with a two-night stay at the prestigious Hotel Du Vin, nestled in the heart of Poole’s historic old town. Upon arrival, they received a delicious selection of chocolates from Truly Scrumptious, setting the perfect tone for a romantic weekend escape.
A Weekend of Exclusive Treats and Experiences
The itinerary was carefully curated to ensure the couple enjoyed the very best that Poole has to offer:
Friday
· Check-in at Hotel Du Vin and welcome chocolates from Truly Scrumptious.
Saturday
· A romantic breakfast to start the day.
· A visit to Confused Fox Jewellery Store, where Laura selected a beautiful pair of earrings.
· Shopping at Brakeburn & Lavender Moon for stylish clothing and accessories.
· Picking out a hamper of books at Great Reads Bookstore to inspire their love story.
· A delicious Jamaican street food lunch at Zeen Cuisine.
· An afternoon of creativity with a ceramic pottery class at Charlotte Miller Ceramics.
· A romantic dinner at The Pickled Berry, followed by cocktails at the stylish St Tropez Club.
Sunday
· A wonderful brunch at Custom House Poole Bistro & Bar, offering stunning views of Poole Harbour.
· A scenic Coastal Cruises trip around Poole Harbour to conclude the weekend on a high note.
A Love Story Born on the Open Road
Laura and Dan’s love story began in an unexpected way on a motorway in heavy rain. Four years ago, Laura’s car broke down on the hard shoulder while she was driving from Plymouth to Swansea. Feeling anxious and stranded in the storm, she waited for roadside assistance when another car pulled over behind her. It was Dan, who kindly offered to help.
By coincidence, he had the same car as Laura and spare oil in his boot, which he used to fix the issue despite the downpour. As he prepared to leave, Dan took a chance and asked, “This seems really strange, but do you think I could call you sometime?” Laura, charmed by his kindness, said yes. Four and a half years later, they are inseparable and have exchanged commitment rings, making them a perfect choice for Poole BID’s VIP prize.
Reflecting on their experience, Laura and Dan shared their heartfelt appreciation, “We’d both like to say a truly massive thank you to you, Jacqui and Wendy, and all of the wonderful BID members and business owners for such a truly wonderful weekend experience in Poole! We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and were really knocked out by the generosity, hospitality, and kindness of everyone we met during our stay. Poole absolutely has so much to offer, and we’ll both absolutely be recommending it as a brilliant place to visit and stay to all of our family and friends.”
Poole BID CEO Jacqui Rock added, “We are so pleased that Dan and Laura had such a great experience and enjoyed the opportunity to discover the amazing variety of things that Poole has to offer. They were blessed with sunshine too which always helps to showcase our town!
“Poole BID is delighted with the success of the competition and looks forward to continuing its mission of supporting local businesses while showcasing Poole as a premier destination for visitors.”
April has seen the launch of Discover Food in Poole campaign.
For further information, please visit https://discoverpoole.com/food