Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards 2027 – hear what previous winners say about entering

The Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards 2027 are taking place on 11 April at the InterContinental Hotel Dublin, as part of the Professional Beauty & Hair show weekend.

These awards are unique in Ireland because they are judged by the industry, for the industry. There is no public vote – instead, a panel of experts decide on the deserving winners.

With entries now open across the 14 categories, we asked this year’s Beauty, Hair & Spa Award recipients what advice they would give to anyone thinking about putting themselves forward. Here is what some of them had to say:

• “I think so many people in the industry underestimate themselves and what they’ve achieved. Entering awards gives you the chance to reflect on your journey, celebrate your growth and step outside your comfort zone a little. My advice would be to be yourself and tell your story honestly. People connect with authenticity and passion, far more than perfection. You never know where one opportunity can lead, and sometimes putting yourself forward is the first step towards bigger things.”
  Valerie Finnegan Cahill, owner, Ikon Hair Design, winner of Hair Salon of the Year 2026, sponsored by Revlon Professional

• “Absolutely go for it. The application process itself is a valuable opportunity to reflect on your business, celebrate your achievements and identify areas for future growth. Don’t underestimate your story. Awards aren't just about numbers; they’re about your people, your culture, your innovation and the difference you make every day.”
  Brendan Molloy, owner, South William Clinic, winner of Aesthetic Clinic of the Year 2026, sponsored by Creagh Aesthetic Distribution

• “The process of entering actually gives you a chance to reflect on how far you’ve come and what you’ve achieved. My advice would be to tell your story honestly. Focus on the impact you’ve made, the challenges you’ve overcome and what makes your business unique. The industry is full of incredible people doing incredible things, and these awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate that success. Winning is wonderful, but taking part can be an incredibly valuable experience too. If you’re nominated, make a night of it with your team and let them all enjoy the celebrations together. 
  Kieran Walsh, owner, National Beauty Distribution, winner of Business Director of the Year (Distributor) 2026, sponsored by Eden Beauty Group

• “Just go for it! Do not let self-doubt talk you out of it. So many talented people in this industry underestimate their own impact. Take the time to really reflect on your journey and the difference you have made, because often we are so busy working in our business that we forget to acknowledge how far we have come. Even just filling in the application form is a great exercise. 
  Melissa Hayward, winner of Educator of the Year 2026, sponsored by AIT

• “Definitely go for it! Be proud of your work, tell your story honestly and put yourself forward. Entering gives you the chance to reflect on how far you’ve come, and winning can be an incredible boost both personally and professionally. And you never know where it might lead.”
  Jessy Malone, winner of Make-up Artist of the Year 2026, sponsored by EVAGARDEN

• “Just do it. Honestly, don’t overthink it. The process is straightforward and easy to follow, and what you get out of it is so much more than a trophy. You get the opportunity to create something fun and beautiful. Something that’s firstly for you, a chance to express yourself and your craft outside of the everyday salon environment. And then you get to share it with an entire community of people who understand exactly what went into it. Think about it from a business perspective too – what better way to promote yourself than being able to say you’re part of one of the most prestigious awards in the industry?”
  Stephen Aiken, winner of Colour Technician of the Year 2027, sponsored by the Irish Hairdressers Federation

So what are you waiting for? With entries closing on 19 October, for more information and to put yourself forward, visit here.