Pearls VI is October’s Business of the Month as the Department of Trade and Consumer Affairs continues its efforts to promote and assist small businesses in the Territory.

Pearls VI is owned and operated by local Salt Island descendant Ms. Alexandra Durante and has been in operation for the past 5 years. The business is noted for its beautiful local handcrafted jewellery pieces, bath and body products, seasoning made from Salt Island salt as well as art works rendered by local BVI artist.

Ms. Durante said that she has forged relationships with local producers in an effort to support and promote local products, ranging from locally made hot sauces, cane rum and guava berry wine, to local books, painting and prints. She added that her Tortola and Virgin Gorda locations continue to make a small taste of the BVI available to locals and visitors alike.

Ms. Durante also contributes to the community through various charities including the Tree of Hands Charity started by her mother Caroline Durante in 1994.

Director of Trade & Consumer Affairs, Mrs. Karia Christopher said outstanding customer service, provision of unique products, and diligent community involvement are qualities exhibited which propelled Pearls VI to capture the October Business of the Month Award.

Mrs. Christopher said, “I am delighted with the announcement, as Pearls VI captures the essence of locally owned and grown products in the Virgin Islands.”

As part of its winnings, the business will receive monetary funds to further promote the business and promotion by way of Government through the provision of free advertisements. This includes a GIS interview with the business owners; sponsored commercials for the month via radio and television; a business profile on the Government’s website and the online media; a profile on BVICCHA’s website; one year’s free membership with BVICCHA; and a framed certificate. For more information about Pearls VI visit their website at www.pearlsvi.com or feel free to contact them via telephone at: (284) 494-7752 or (284) 346-1023.

The Department of Trade and Consumer Affairs continues to support small businesses and encourages businesses in the Virgin Islands to supply quality products, provide excellent customer service, and give back to the community to have a chance at becoming the next Business of the Month. Nomination forms are available on the website www.bvi.gov.vg.

Businesses can apply, or members of the public can nominate businesses or business persons by submitting a nomination form and an essay of at least 300 words stating why the nominee should be considered for the Business of the Month award.