Ready to be part of the UK's biggest celebration of hair and beauty talent? We've made entering our awards simple and clear. Our six-step process ensures everyone gets a fair chance to shine, no matter their financial or social status.
From entry to red carpet, here's how it works...
Browse through our range of hair and beauty categories and pick the ones that best show off your skills. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro - we've got categories that celebrate every aspect of our industry.
Top tip: You can enter multiple categories to increase your chances of recognition. Just make sure you meet the specific requirements for each one!
Once you've picked your categories, we'll send you a submission form straight to your inbox. This is your chance to show us what makes you amazing at what you do! Upload examples of your work and tell us your story.
Don't worry - the submission form will guide you through exactly what you need. All the documents we ask for are standard ones that every UK hair and beauty business should have.
Remember: Take your time to answer thoroughly. Your submission is what our judges will use to make their decision!
Once you've submitted your entry, our team will carefully review your application to confirm you meet all the requirements for Finalist status. We take pride in maintaining high industry standards, which is why this step is so important.
Good news - if your application doesn't meet the criteria, you'll receive a full refund - but rest assured our submissions team will reach out to help you try locate any missing documents you might need.
Top tip: Finalist titles are your first step towards joining our prestigious celebration. If successful, you'll receive exclusive marketing materials to help promote your achievement!
Congratulations! If your application is successful, you'll receive your official Finalist title and exclusive Finalist pack.
This exciting bundle includes:
• Your personalised digital Finalist certificate
• FREE marketing materials and social media assets
• Press release template
• Exclusive Finalist handbook
• Special discount booklet featuring favourite brands
Top tip: Our completely personalised Finalist titles are a fantastic way to promote your business. Many finalists see increased bookings after sharing their achievement with clients!
After entries close on 29th July 2025, every finalist submission goes through our thorough judging process to select the National Top 50 that will be presented on stage at the Grad Final Red Carpet Event. Each entry is reviewed by three independent industry experts, each with over 10 years of experience in their field.
To ensure complete fairness:
• All entries are anonymised (names replaced with numbers)
• Judges remain anonymous to prevent any external influence
• Every submission is scored purely on merit
• Results are based on quality, not attendance at the event
Top tip: Remember, being a finalist is already a huge achievement - only around 120 finalists are selected from thousands of entries.
The moment we've all been waiting for - our spectacular Red Carpet Event! Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration with THE WANTED headlining, plus more incredible entertainment.
What to expect:
• Walk the red carpet like a celebrity
• Enjoy a luxury 5-star, 3-course dining experience
• Professional photography opportunities
• Live announcement of Top 50 and Winners
• Trophy presentations
• Dance the night away with industry friends
• Networking
• Celebrate the industry with your HBA family
Can't make it? No problem! Watch all the excitement unfold from home via our FREE livestream. Remember, your chances of winning remain exactly the same whether you attend in person or celebrate virtually.
Top tip: Priority seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with tables closer to the stage filling up first. Dress code is Black Tie/Formal.