British Hairdressing Awards ‘21

A VIEW FROM THE FRONT – NICK HIGGINS

The biggest date in the hairdressing calendar, The British Hairdressing Awards, finally returned in person, after two years in the Zoom wilderness. And what a night it was. Our hair “Oscars” has always recognised the very best in British Hairdressing and this was to be no exception.

There was though, a real sense of something even bigger, better and more important on the night, the sheer delight from all, in seeing so many old friends and colleagues. That feeling was palpable. It was genuinely wonderful, feeling some kind of normality again following the difficult times we all have faced and the reminder that meeting people, chatting face to face is a simple but beautiful pleasure that we had lost for too long. Our industry is built on special relationships and contact with our clients and teams, so let us hope that 2022 brings them back… for good.

Wonderful Brands were in attendance and very lucky to be invited by the Executive Director of HJI, Jayne Lewis-Orr and to sit on her table (AKA Stage Front LOL). It was such a pleasure to attend and the night did not disappoint. Fantastic conversations on our table with a couple of major brand directors, Jayne and her colleagues and then hair legends Anthony Mascolo and Phil Smith! Two years to catch up on!

The awards kicked off with an incredible show from hair icon, Nick Irwin and then hosted by the ever reliable Rylan Clarke who did not miss a trick. I love his way of making all the award winners at ease on stage with his casual interview approach to receive them. Great to see several new winners and a couple of multiple award getters.

Following some incredibly well deserved regional award winners even the interval was fabulous, a genuine music legend, Spandau Ballet’s Tony Hadley appeared and was simply Gold (sorry!). It was amusing seeing anyone under 25 initially not sure who this was and anyone over 40 reminded of the amazing period of 80s UK music and in awe of one of the superstars of that time belting out his greatest hits. Whatever age, everyone was up. It was a wonderful moment.

And finally the build up to the big one, the ultimate accolade, British Hairdresser of the Year 2021. Preceded with an incredible hair model show from all of the finalists, demonstrating why British hairdressing is at the forefront in the world of hair. It must have been a difficult decision for the judging panel, deservedly the award was given to the supremely talented Robert Eaton. A second time win for Robert, based in the North of England and from a family who have over 40 years’ at the forefront of hairdressing. Congratulations to Robert, such incredible work and the most beautiful collection.

If any of our salons, stylists, colourists have ever wanted to or thought about entering for any awards then we are always happy to speak and support with advice, guidance or just putting in contact with the right people.