Warwickshire founder Julie Hughes named judge for The Class Business Awards 2026
Hughes Probate Services and Fiesta Farewell founder to host a mastermind table on the realities of running a business
Julie Hughes, founder of Hughes Probate Services and Fiesta Farewell, has been announced as one of 20 judges for the inaugural Class Business Awards 2026, run by business strategist Krissy Monaghan. The judging panel has reviewed more than 400 entries from businesses across the UK, with finalists announced across sectors including children’s activities, sports and performing arts.
The awards will be presented on Saturday 10 October 2026 at the National Conference Centre in Solihull, celebrating businesses that teach, inspire and create impact through classes and community activities.
Reflecting on the judging process, Julie said:
“I loved being a judge and reading about some inspirational people creating unique businesses in their community.“
Alongside her judging role, Julie has also been invited to host a mastermind table at the event, ahead of the awards and dinner. Her table will lead a discussion titled ‘The Reality of Running a Business: Challenges, Change and Growth’, drawing on her own experience of building two businesses over more than two decades in self-employment. Rather than a presentation, the session is designed as an open, interactive discussion, giving attendees the chance to ask questions, share their own experiences and hear a candid account of what business ownership really looks like behind the scenes.
Julie brings more than 25 years’ experience in probate and estate administration to the table, having launched Hughes Probate Services in 2021 to offer families a personal, jargon-free alternative to traditional law firms. In March 2025, she launched Fiesta Farewell, an online directory connecting families with trusted local celebration-of-life and funeral professionals across Warwickshire and the surrounding counties.
Krissy Monaghan, founder of The Class Business Awards, is available for further comment on
07500 772514 or email kristine@kristinemonaghan.com.