Renee and Andrew Lincoln, who have been running Ambience Bakery in Cobram for the past year, said it felt surreal to already have an award.
The bakery has won the best retail business award.
“It was not expected at all,” Ms Lincoln said.
“You just work hard and you’ve got goals and it’s a personal satisfaction to know we are doing okay.
"It is such a nice feeling to win the award. It was daunting to buy a business during COVID.
“So to be recognised for the work you’ve put in is really humbling.
“It shows you that the town, and people accept you. We get a lot of support from local people.
“Our staff are amazing, they all work hard and are very loyal and caring. We were happy just to be nominated.
“And we had a table of 22 at the awards so we all celebrated on the night.”