Mayor Jean-Yves Chapelet rewarded florist Sandrine Coulombier, baker Alexandre Diard and decorator Sandrine Coulombier, artisans of rue Fernand Crémieux Midi Libre – Arthur Cagna Demoustier
Three shopkeepers from Bagnols-sur-Cèze received the title of Master Craftsman from the Chamber of Trades and Crafts of Gard. The town hall also wanted to mark the occasion by giving each of them a medal from the City to reward their work and sacrifice.
Local artisans are in the spotlight. In Bagnols-sur-Cèze, three shopkeepers, all located on rue Fernand-Crémieux, were awarded the title of Master Craftsman by the Chamber of Trades and Crafts of Gard. To congratulate them, the municipality presented each of them with a City medal on Thursday, January 16. “This distinction is a recognition of the entire city, declared the mayor of Bagnols, Jean-Yves Chapelet. We reward the work and investment of our exceptional artisans.“
Florist for over 25 years
It is symbolically that Laurence Voignier, the first female Master Florist of the Gard, received the first medal of the City. In her workshop, the florist composes bouquets and ephemeral decorations for the pleasure of giving, for birthdays or weddings.
This floral passion took root during her childhood. With a grandmother who was passionate about gardening and a grandfather who was an agricultural engineer, Laurence Voignier developed a chemistry for flowers. After studying horticulture, she became a florist for the first time, before retraining as a midwife. A few years later, she met her husband and “the floral fiber blossomed again“. In 1997, the couple took the plunge and opened the boutique Aux fleurs de Provence.
200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000A versatile decorator and renovator
Upholsterer Sandrine Coulombier obtained her title two years ago. With a degree in furniture art history, the Gardoise offers armchair renovations, curtain making, furniture makeovers, etc. “My trademark is to combine modern and old“, explains Sandrine Coulombier.
In her boutique Sandy Déco, the craftswoman uses traditional know-how. Sandrine Coulombier works with different materials such as leather, fabrics and even interior paint. It also offers initiations to allow individuals to renovate their family armchairs themselves.
A baker using traditional techniques
Baker Alexandre Diard became a Master Craftsman in October 2024. Since opening his business in 2014, the Bagnolais has been promoting traditional know-how, with 100% handmade production. “I have always sought to highlight art, history and craftsmanship, says the 32-year-old baker. My energy is happiness and I always seek to bring positivity to what I do.“
Alexandre Diard is also one of the rare artisans in the Gard region to hold the Boulanger de France label. “This job requires a lot of sacrifices, with weeks of at least 70 hours. It's nice to feel supported by the City and its residents.“
The requirements to become a Master Craftsman
To obtain the title of Master Craftsman, individuals must meet several conditions. Holders of a diploma must be registered in the trades directory, hold a master's certificate and have been practicing for at least two years. Craftsmen without a diploma must be registered in the trades directory for at least ten years and provide proof of recognized know-how under the promotion of crafts.
In both cases, candidates for the title of Master Craftsman must demonstrate their ability to train interns and apprentices.