Derry salon scoops Beauty Salon of the Year at NI Hair & Beauty Awards

Derry salon, The Beauty Lab by Michelle, has taken home the prize for Beauty Salon of the Year at the Northern Ireland Hair and Beauty Awards 2023.

The awards ceremony, held in the Europa Hotel in Belfast, celebrated the best hair and beauty professionals across the country, with 350 guests in attendance.

Michelle Brown, owner of The Beauty Lab by Michelle, was the only winner from the city and said she was so happy to receive the recognition. Michelle was up against ten other businesses in the regional awards.

Michelle has been in the aesthetics industry nearly six years now and was also nominated for two national awards- 'Skin Clinic' and 'Aesthetic Specialist.' 

Speaking to Derry News, Michelle said winning the award means the world to her, "It is absolutely amazing. When you're self-employed, you never switch off. I am always working or training or doing my appointments. I left my part time office job at the height of Covid when businesses were shutting down and went into my Aesthetics career full time as it's always something I wanted to pursue further."

This is Michelle's first time winning an award but she says it is hopefully not the last. 

Michelle continued: "We had an amazing night in Europa hotel and we all went and celebrated till the early hours. I was working the next day in my Belfast Clinic but I was still on a high from winning so that helped me through.

"I want to thank my clients- some of my clients have been coming to be for years and always support me- and also the other girls in the salon, my family and my partner for always driving me."

Michelle is based in Springtown Industrial Estate at Unit 10. You can also find her on Instagram at thebeautylab_bymichelle.

The winners of The Northern Ireland Hair and Beauty Awards 2023 represent excellence in the hair and beauty industry.

They have been recognised for their exceptional skills, expertise, and creativity in their respective categories, including hair salons, beauty salons, male grooming salons, spas, cosmetic clinics, makeup artists, nail salons, and beauty training academies.

A Spokesperson for The Northern Ireland Hair and Beauty Awards 2023 said: “It has been an unforgettable night, filled with incredible food, entertainment, vibrant energy, and passionate conversations.

“Winning an award in this prestigious competition is a significant achievement, as it acknowledges the talent and hard work of hair and beauty professionals and sets a benchmark for others to follow. The winners of these awards represent the highest standards of quality and service in the country’s hair and beauty industry.

“We have celebrated the finest professionals and businesses, recognising the creativity, innovation, and exceptional service that have become synonymous with this beloved industry. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees and thank you to everyone who participated and supported this event."