The UK and Ireland nail industry celebrated at The Scratch Stars Party on July 21, for a fun-filled evening of awards, live garage music and nail tech networking.
“The annual awards not only celebrate individual and collective achievements, but also foster a spirit of community and collaboration within the industry,” says Scratch Magazine.
“Tailored to recognise not just technical skills, but business acumen and customer care, the accolades are presented to all-rounders: individuals and teams that raise the standard of the sector through exceptional everyday practice.”
The sold-out event took place in London at The Underglobe located on the River Thames. It was hosted by DJ, producer and former England rugby union player, James Haskell, and Scratch's very own Helena Biggs who invited sponsors on stage to reveal the winner of their respective sponsor category.
Attendees enjoyed an evening filled with free-flowing prosecco, canapes, inspiring speeches and the chance to unite with fellow nail professionals, as well as live performances from Shola Ama and DJ Luck & MC Neat.
Entries for the awards opened in February, and 90 finalists were announced in April. They went on to a second and final judging stage: some finalists had to submit portfolios of work and testimonials, while others were mystery shopped or required to complete a nail task at a live judging event.
Scored by esteemed industry experts, points were amassed to determine a winner in each category.
Helena Biggs, Scratch’s editorial and partnerships director and organiser of the Scratch Stars Awards, commented: “We are thrilled to recognise the outstanding individuals and companies who exemplify the highest standards of excellence in the UK&I nail industry.
“Their innovation, creativity, and dedication drive our industry forward, and we are honoured to celebrate their achievements.”
THE WINNERS
Natural Nail Specialist of the Year sponsored by Hara Professional
Lucy Price-Marshall
Polish & Paint Artist of the Year sponsored by Morgan Taylor Nail Lacquer
Danielle Brindley
One Stroke Artist of the Year sponsored by HD Professional Nail Systems
Catriona Leith
L&P Tech of the Year sponsored by Glitterbels
Kirsty McDonough
Gel Polish Stylist of the Year sponsored by The GelBottle Inc
Jiak Hing
Gel Tech of the Year sponsored by Light Elegance UK
Catriona Leith
Mixed Media Artist of the Year sponsored by Bexy Glow
Danielle Brindley
Nail Stylist of the Year sponsored by OPI
Kayley Cairns
Social Media Star of the Year sponsored by Halo PoliBuild
Kamila Boroweic
Mobile Nailist of the Year sponsored by Vodex
Stela Angelova
Home Nail Salon of the Year sponsored by Gelish
Paintbrush Nails
Nail & Beauty Salon of the Year sponsored by ABT Insurance
Nailspa
Nail Salon of the Year sponsored by The Manicure Company
Niche Nails & Beauty
Nail Team of the Year sponsored by The London College of Beauty Therapy
Glitterbels Education Team
Educator of the Year sponsored by ABT Insurance
Melanie Lewnedon
The Nail Business Mentor of the Year Award sponsored by Andreia Professional
Hazel Dixon
The Shooting Star Award presented by Scratch magazine
Dani Bailey
The Services to the Nail Industry Award sponsored by Sweet Squared
Kirsty Meakin