Multi-award winning Lake District business woman

Multi-award winning Clare Gelderd

At 33, I am past chasing success - I have defined it on my own terms.

In a world that often celebrates overnight wins and polished perfection, my story offers something far more powerful: proof that consistency, integrity, and unwavering self-belief build businesses that last. Across two entirely different industries, which you would assume can not work hand-in-hand, photography and agriculture. I have achieved what few do: recognition at the highest level, without ever compromising who I am as an idividual.

This year, I have been awarded Photographer of the Year and Cattle Specialist of the Year 2026/2027. Two industries. Two businesses. One mindset.

Make no mistake, this wasn’t just luck!

This is years of showing up authentically. Of building things I truly believes in. Of backing myself, especially on the days when it would have been easier not to. I openly admits, farming has plenty of those days.

At the heart of both ventures lies a clear and consistent ethos: build something genuine, prioritise animal welfare, commit to growth with intention, and prioritising those around me. It’s a philosophy I believe in. It doesn’t chase trends, it is old school and it creates trust.


A Vision Rooted in Purpose

Through Phoenix Parthenaise, I am not simply producing cattle, I am promoting a breed I believe in. Parthenaise cattle are a beef breed that originate from Western-Southern France, with striking black details, making them an attractive breed. Growing in popularity through the UK, with easy calving, rapid growth rates and a placid temperament, you can understand why I am so passionate about these cattle.

My work with the Parthenaise breed reflects more than farming understanding; it represents a deep passion for the breed itself paired with marketing clarity. A clear niche, a bold and distinctive brand, and an authentic connection with her audience have set her apart in a competitive industry.

What truly defines my approach is support for others.

This is not about rapid expansion or cutting corners. It’s about building something slowly, intentionally, and properly. Ensuring animal welfare at the core and long-term sustainability in mind. It is about educating and supporting others who show interest in this up and coming beef breed of cattle in the UK.

The judges recognised exactly that, highlighting; clear niche focus, distinctive identity, and genuine engagement. They noted a solid foundation for continued growth, supported by her effective use of digital platforms to tell her story.

It’s a reminder that success doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. It just has to be real.


Recognition That Can’t Be Bought

Phoenix Parthenaise reflects only one business, Clare Gelderd Photography reveals my natural instinctive creativity, alongside ensuring me deep human connection approach to business.

My recent award Photographer of the Year title carries particular significance, not just because of what it represents, but because of how it was awarded.

This is not an accolade that is bought or influenced.

It isn’t based on social media following or visibility. It’s something you are selected for quietly, carefully, and thoroughly.

Behind the scenes, my work was evaluated through detailed conversations, in-depth questioning, and a full assessment of every aspect of this Lake District photography business. From the way I photograph a wedding, to the experience I create for my clients, to the feedback from the couples, because I believe - every detail matters.

The judges described my work as authentic, emotive storytelling, capturing genuine moments with a natural, un-staged approach. They recognised not only my creativity, but my exceptional client experience — With the ability to make people feel at ease, supported, and truly seen.

They also highlighted; dedication, flexibility, and professionalism, with a tireless commitment to delivering beyond expectations.

But perhaps most tellingly, this recognition aligns perfectly with my own values.

I have always believed that success should come from doing the work. Consistently, honestly, and wholeheartedly. Not from seeking validation, but from earning trust. From understanding my clients and audience. So much so, I study psychology to ensure I can read the room at ease.

To receive this award, in this way, is not just an achievement. It is confirmation that my old fashioned approach in fast paced industries works.


One Mindset, Two Worlds

What connects a windswept mountain wedding to a carefully bred herd of cattle?

For me, the answer is simple: mindset and approach.

Whether I am documenting a couple’s most intimate moments or building a respected name within agriculture, my approach remains the same. Strong work ethic. Clear morals. A refusal to cut corners. And a deep respect for both people and process.

Every email to a client. Every early morning on the farm. Every unpredictable challenge. Every risk taken quietly, without guarantee of outcome.

This is what success is built on.

Not perfection. Not visibility. Not shortcuts.

Simple consistency.


For the Women Watching

My story resonates because it speaks something many women feel but don’t always act on: the desire to build something meaningful without losing themselves in the process.

My journey is not about doing more, or losing myself along the way - it’s about doing what matters, and doing it well.

It’s about trusting your instincts when they go against the grain. Holding your standards when no one is watching. Knowing that growth doesn’t have to come at the cost of authenticity.

You don’t need to fit into one box.
You don’t need to follow a prescribed path.
AND you certainly don’t need to dilute your values to succeed.

I didn’t choose between industries. I didn’t compromise her ethos. I didn’t wait for permission.

I built my life around what I love - steadily, unwavering, and unapologetically.

In doing so, I am proud to have created something far more powerful than awards.

I have created alignment.

It’s the result of showing up, every single day, with passion, integrity, and the courage to do things differently.

That is something no one can give you, nevertheless something every woman is capable of building.