The business community came together to celebrate the top businesses of the year. Thursday was the 2017 edition of the Morden and District Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Gala.

A total of four awards were handed out during the evening hosted at the Minnewasta Golf and Country Club in Morden.

Earlier this year the Chamber announced the Entrepreneur of the year and Not for profit of the year awards.

Home Hardware was selected as the winner of the Business of the Year for seven and over employees.

"I'm just shocked with how well the community has accepted us and invited us in," said David Janzen, who owns the Morden Home Hardware with his wife Elizabeth Janzen.

The duo took over the store roughly two years ago and have made changes along the way, but attributed everything back to their great staff who made the award a possibility.

"When people come in we want them to feel like their needs are being met and that we are together," said Elizabeth. "Together, we want to help them find what they need."

The Olive Tree owners Kevin (left) and Ashley (right) receive their business of the year award for under seven employees

The award for Business of the Year for Under seven employees was given to The Olive Tree. The Olive Tree opened its doors in April of 2015.

"We've put our heart and soul into this business. There's been lots of hours and late nights and it has been really rewarding to see it all come together," said Ashley Funk, who co-owns the business with her husband Kevin Funk.

Ashley said Kevin is up around 4:00 a.m. and she's often up until around 1:00 a.m. because of the business.

"Oh, 100%," said Kevin, when asked if the recognition makes those early mornings and long days worth it.

"We get a little overwhelmed sometimes," added Ashley.

Kevin noted the couple has more plans for the business and were really surprised to see how fast their company has been able to grow.