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Debbie Corney of Wafflicious recognised as influential woman in business – Dessert Specialist Dorset 2026

Celebrating entrepreneurial creativity, exceptional customer experiences and a passion for bringing people together through delicious desserts.

Debbie Corney, founder of Wafflicious, has been recognised by Innervision Global with the Influential Woman in Business – Dessert Specialist Dorset 2026 Award, celebrating her creativity, entrepreneurial determination and dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences within Dorset’s dessert industry.

What began as an unexpected idea during lockdown has grown into an award-winning dessert parlour in Weymouth, where freshly prepared waffles, ice cream and a welcoming atmosphere have helped establish Wafflicious as a favourite among local residents and returning visitors.

Debbie’s journey into hospitality was far from conventional.

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Wafflicious Influential Woman Award Logo v1

Having previously worked as a language teacher before establishing her own publishing company in 2005, producing local community magazines, she had no professional background in the food industry. Her original ambition was simply to live by the sea.

During a holiday in Cornwall, she spotted a property comprising a shop and flat for sale and jokingly suggested that it would make a wonderful ice cream parlour. The idea stayed with her, prompting a search for suitable coastal properties. Weymouth eventually caught her attention, where she discovered a building with a shop and two flats above it. Despite the work required, Debbie and her family decided almost immediately to pursue the opportunity.

The premises had previously operated as an ice cream shop but had been inactive for four years. Debbie transformed the space with a fresh colour scheme and a large flamingo mural. 

With guidance from a chef friend and inspiration from her travels to America, she introduced waffles alongside ice cream, recognising an opportunity to offer something different in the area.

Nearly five years later, Wafflicious has developed a loyal following, with its appeal extending well beyond the desserts themselves.

For Debbie, creating a welcoming environment has always been just as important as serving delicious food. The parlour’s jukebox, lively atmosphere and friendly service encourage customers to relax, enjoy themselves and spend meaningful time together.

“The key ingredients to the success are our love of what we do. We are passionate that everyone has a good time.”

Wafflicious - Influential Woman Digital Plaque

This philosophy has helped Wafflicious develop lasting relationships with its customers. Many local residents visit regularly, while holidaymakers return year after year. Debbie recalls one customer who visited while pregnant and later returned to introduce her daughter. Others return to remember loved ones for whom Wafflicious held a special place, demonstrating the meaningful connections the business has created.

Family involvement has also played a significant role in its development. Debbie’s son, Hayden, initially helped at weekends while still attending school and gradually discovered his enthusiasm for the business. Now aged 22, he manages the parlour, overseeing stock orders, recruitment, staff management, health and safety procedures and food allergy requirements. Debbie remains closely involved, supporting the business and promoting Wafflicious through social media.

Like many seaside businesses, Wafflicious faces seasonal challenges. However, rather than closing during the quieter winter months, Debbie has remained committed to keeping the parlour open throughout the year. Creative promotions such as Waffle Wednesdays, offering buy-one-get-one-free waffles, alongside Halloween and Christmas specials, pirate parties and princess parties, have helped maintain customer interest.

The introduction of Walter the Waffle Wagon has also allowed Wafflicious to reach customers at shows and events beyond the parlour, reflecting Debbie’s determination to remain adaptable and creative.

Despite the long working hours and challenges of maintaining profitability, Debbie has never seriously considered giving up. Her positive outlook, perseverance and enjoyment of the business continue to motivate her nearly five years into the journey.

Her dedication has been rewarded with numerous industry accolades. Just two years after opening, Wafflicious received the Best Dessert Shop in England award at a ceremony in Birmingham attended by nearly 1,000 people. Since then, the business has continued to receive recognition, accumulating approximately nine significant awards, including two additional honours this year.

For Debbie, these achievements are particularly meaningful because the nominations have come from others, reflecting the appreciation and support Wafflicious has earned from its customers and wider community.

Looking ahead, Debbie hopes to expand Wafflicious with another parlour offering more space and a larger kitchen to introduce additional products. Her longer-term vision also includes exploring accommodation as part of a more complete Wafflicious experience, while preserving the welcoming atmosphere that customers have come to love.

Receiving the latest recognition from Innervision Global has further strengthened her determination to continue developing the business.

“This award took me by surprise! I am very proud of this acknowledgement and it has made me more determined to continue and grow bigger.”

Debbie credits much of her success to the support of her family, particularly Hayden’s dedication and her husband’s encouragement, alongside valuable guidance from her chef friend. Her Scientology beliefs have also influenced her positive outlook and desire to help others succeed.

For aspiring female entrepreneurs, her advice is to remain positive, stay productive and surround themselves with supportive, like-minded people who share their enthusiasm and determination.

As Wafflicious approaches its fifth year, Debbie remains focused on the values that have shaped its success: creativity, perseverance, genuine hospitality and a desire to make people smile.

Contact Wafflicious

Phone: 07901 232661

Email: eat@wafflicious.co.uk

Website: wafflicious.co.uk