Long Eaton-based KH Hair is celebrating after two of the Group’s stylists secured their places in the final of the British Hairdressing Awards 2021.
Mary Geoghegan and Jessica Neil, Creative Team members, impressed more than 100 hair industry judges to be named among just six stylists shortlisted for the Eastern Hairdresser of the Year category – which welcomed entries from aspiring stylists from 11 counties spanning the east of England.
The industry awards are a celebration of hairdressing excellence, recognising the outstanding creative and technical abilities of stylists from across the UK. They are judged anonymously by over 100 leading hairdressers (including celebrity stylists, session stylists, salon owners, and previous winners.
Mary and Jessica were selected after submitting four photographic images demonstrating their hairdressing expertise, both in terms of technical skill and creative ability. They are now required to submit a further two images for the final round of judging, which takes place in October. Both stages of judging are independently audited and verified.
Mary and Jessica, who were winners of the coveted award in 2018, said that they are absolutely thrilled to be finalists. “We are so happy and overwhelmed,” they said. “It’s such an honour to be shortlisted alongside such incredible talent and we really hope we can bring the trophy home to Nottingham once more.”
Managing director of the local firm, Darren Messias, expressed how everyone was delighted and proud. He said: “They both worked so hard to create this amazing collection, through what has been a very challenging time for our industry. To finalise in this competition is an incredible achievement and testament to the talent, passion and creativity of them both. We wish them lots of luck for the finals in November.”
Jayne Lewis-Orr, executive director of the British Hairdressing Awards said: “These awards recognise the very best of British hairdressing talent, celebrating the passion, artistry and expertise of individuals from across the country. In reaching the finals, Jessica and Mary have demonstrated that they are accomplished and gifted stylists with an impeccable eye for detail. Every year, this competition gets tougher as the standard of entries improves and they should feel incredibly proud to be recognised at this level.”
Mary and Jessica will join the other finalists at a black-tie ceremony on Monday 29th November at Grosvenor House Hotel in London’s Park Lane, where this year’s winners will be revealed.