2025 Awards Winners
The prestigious BABTAC & CIBTAC Awards Ceremony took place once again at the Fairmont Windsor Park Hotel on a chilly November night. Hosted by the one and only beauty icon, Caroline Hirons who was full of fabulous quips and humour, the night was also opened and closed by BABTAC’s wonderful CEO and Chair, Lesley Blair MBE. Pointing out that the standard of entrants had exceeded all judge’s expectations this year and that some runners up missed out on an award by a single point, Lesley gave a huge and heartfelt thanks to those that had entered and reflected on how much gratitude we should have for our industry and its increasingly high standards.
Congratulations to all our amazing winners this year!
Here is what our 2025 BABTAC & CIBTAC Award Winners had to say about winning their awards....
Award: Waxing Therapist
Sponsored by: WaxXXX Academy
WINNER: Naomie Henton
“Winning this award from such a prestigious organisation is an amazing feeling. To be recognised as a professional in the industry is a dream come true and it has boosted my confidence and credibility. I offer quite a personal service and this award will no doubt help potential clients to place their trust in me. I'm passionate about what I do, maintaining very high standards, so being recognised by BABTAC is confirmation that I'm at the top in my profession. The awards evening is so amazing, I met so many inspirational people and loved every minute. I’m now wondering ‘what’s next?’"
Award: Holistic Therapist
Sponsored by: BALENS
WINNER: Katie Pearson, Bump and Beyond
“This award honestly means the world to me. It feels like all the training, hard work and focus on keeping my standards high has really paid off. I’m always looking for ways to grow, especially in holistic therapy, where treating the body and mind as a whole is so important.
I can’t wait to share this with my clients, they’re the reason I keep pushing myself. I’m so glad that they can now see that my work and treatments have been recognised by my peers. Their trust and support mean everything, and this feels like a celebration we can share together.
Being recognised alongside such incredible therapists is genuinely humbling. I admire so many of them, so to be placed in that company feels amazing and inspires me to keep progressing, keep learning, keep improving and keep giving my very best.”
Award: Specialist Therapist
Sponsored by: Elite Probes
WINNER: Natalie Jackson Advanced Skin Clinic
“Winning this award is an absolute highlight of my career. The BABTAC Awards really are the “Oscars” of our industry, so to receive this honour feels incredible! What’s also wonderful is that this award puts advanced electrolysis - my specialism and passion - firmly on the stage and in the spotlight. Over the years, so many clients have told me that treatment has given them back their confidence, relieved discomfort or simply helped them feel like themselves again. The results can be truly life changing and with the NHS no longer treating benign skin lesions, this skill has never been more important.
I’ve always believed in specialising as the hours of practice and focus you gain allow you to truly become an expert. It takes courage to specialise and build a whole career around one area, so I want to congratulate all the other Specialist finalists.
I’m also excited to share that I will be offering training for practitioners at all levels, whether you’re looking to add this incredible skill to your treatment menu for the first time, or you’re already experienced and want to refine, elevate, and deepen your confidence. After 35 years in clinic, it feels like the perfect time to pass on the knowledge and practical insight I’ve gained.”
Award: Facialist
Sponsored by: Katherine Daniels
WINNER: Denise Brown, Professional Skin
“Being in the beauty industry for 30 years and finally finding the courage to start my own business five years ago has been the most transformative chapter of my career. I truly live and breathe being a facialist, so winning the Facialist Award for the second year running means more to me than I could ever put into words. It feels like a deeply personal acknowledgement of the passion, care and intention I pour into my work every single day.
To receive this recognition from BABTAC, an organisation that represents professionalism, high standards and excellence, is an honour I don’t take lightly. Their values reflect the standards I continually strive for, every late evening working, every training course completed and every decision made with client wellbeing in mind has contributed to this achievement.
I never imagined, when I opened my business five years ago, that I would win this award once, let alone twice. It reinforces that dedication, passion and a genuine love for my job is totally worthwhile. This award reminds me why I do what I do, to deliver exceptional treatments, to keep learning, and to help my clients feel confident in their skin.”
Award: Advanced Aesthetician
Sponsored by: SKIN ROCKS by Caroline Hirons
WINNER: Carole Lacey, Waterside Aesthetics
“Receiving this award is an honour that feels both humbling and deeply affirming. After four decades dedicated to skin health, education and the continual evolution of my craft, this recognition reflects a journey shaped by resilience, reinvention and an unwavering commitment to client care.
From my early days building small salons with nothing but determination to relocating my life and business to the calm, coastal beauty of South Devon, every chapter has taught me the value of listening, learning and staying true to purpose. My career has grown alongside advances in technology and the increasing understanding of what skin truly needs and I have always made it my mission to stay at the forefront, updating my skills, knowledge and techniques to serve my clients with integrity.
This award represents more than professional achievement. It celebrates the people who place their trust in me, the clients whose stories shape my days, and the belief that skin health is deeply connected to emotional wellbeing. To be recognised by BABTAC, at one of the most esteemed events in our industry, with its exceptional standards and meticulous judging, is an honour I carry with immense gratitude.”
Award: Beauty Therapist
Sponsored by: timely
WINNER: Joanna Bojarska, Beauty by Joanna Bojarska
“Winning the Beauty Therapist of the Year award is one of the most meaningful achievements of my entire career. It represents far more than a title — it reflects years of dedication, continuous learning, and the courage it took to step outside my comfort zone and grow both personally and professionally.
As a solo business owner, every decision, every investment, every late evening preparing treatment plans, and every moment spent supporting my clients comes from the heart. To have this recognised on a national stage is incredibly emotional. It feels like a celebration not only of my work, but of the journey — from the early days of starting my business at home, to reaching my 10-year anniversary this year, to now being honoured among the very best in our industry. This award also belongs to my clients, who have trusted me with their skin, their wellbeing, and their stories for so many years. Their loyalty and encouragement have shaped me into the therapist I am today.
Winning reminds me why I love this profession so deeply — it reaffirms my commitment to high standards, ethics, education, and delivering exceptional care. And I hope it inspires other therapists to believe that with passion, perseverance and authentic service, anything is possible.”
Award: Dermalogica Rising Star Patron Award
Sponsored by: Dermalogica
WINNER: Andrea Filkor
“This win means embracing continuous growth. In the beauty industry, success isn’t just about climbing the ladder — it’s about staying curious, mastering the craft and sharing what you learn. I believe in combining hands‑on skills with sound theory, while always keeping pace with trusted, forward‑thinking brands.
Knowledge, to me, isn’t complete until it’s shared. I work with a broad range of people, from junior therapists to senior experts and I truly take pride in training and guiding them. Seeing others improve because of what I’ve passed on feels deeply rewarding and that, to me, is real achievement.
The Rising Star Awards don’t just celebrate talent — they recognise potential and impact. I feel incredibly honoured to have won the trophy, let alone being named a finalist. I’m very grateful for this recognition and I can’t wait to give back to the community. Ultimately, winning is about building and sharing expertise in a way that really matters. It’s about growing myself and uplifting others, grounded in trust, dedication and genuine care for our profession.”
Award: CIBTAC Student
Sponsored by: SKIN ROCKS by Caroline Hirons
WINNER: Michelle Morrison
“Winning student of the year has been one of the most incredible achievements of my life. Deciding to follow my dream and study skincare in my late 30s with a young family was no mean feat! I wanted to ensure that the education I received was of the highest standard. CIBTAC are known for their high industry standards, provide career focused training with specific skincare qualifications, are recognised worldwide and preferred by many high end employers.
As I live on a remote island and have a young family, it was important to me that learning could be both flexible and autonomous. I was able to pick the modules that aligned with my career goals, instead of taking a rigid one size fits all course. I chose to study at The Academy, Cumbernauld, who offer blended learning of theory and autonomous learning done online and practical work done in person.
Going forward with my career, it is extremely important to me that I can offer clients the highest standard of care, with services and products that provide results. This accolade will hopefully reassure clients that they are placing their skin in the hands of someone who has been recognised as one of the top in the industry.”
Award: CIBTAC Endorsed Centre
Sponsored by: Beauty Backed Trust
WINNER: Guinot
“I am immensely proud of what we have achieved as a brand. Guinot is recognised worldwide for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and professional standards within the beauty and skincare industry. Winning CIBTAC Endorsed Centre award is a true reflection of our team’s commitment to providing training and development that is second-to-none. It’s not just about meeting standards, it’s about continually raising the bar, empowering our learners, and making a real impact in our industry.
This recognition reinforces our belief that when education is delivered with purpose and integrity, it has the power to inspire therapists to grow. We look forward to welcoming the next generation of therapists who come through our training school, equipping them with the knowledge and passion for Guinot to take into the industry and give them longevity in their future career.” Joanne Davies, Training Development Manager
Award: Outstanding Trainer of the Year
Sponsored by: CIBTAC
WINNER: Krestyna Batty, Janssen Cosmetics
“Celebrating a Privilege and a Passion. To be recognised within the BABTAC community is both a privilege and an honour. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my journey in an industry that continues to inspire me every day. Beauty is not simply about treatments or trends—it is about education, integrity, and the quiet excellence that elevates our profession.
Training has always been my passion. I believe that no matter how much knowledge we hold, there is always more to learn. Continuous education keeps our skills sharp, our creativity alive, and our clients confident in the care we provide. It is through training that we grow not only as professionals but also as mentors, shaping the future of our industry.
My own path has taken me across seven countries over twenty four years, where I have had the privilege of learning from diverse cultures and scientific perspectives. This global knowledge allows me to weave together international insights with advanced aesthetic expertise, creating a richer, more holistic approach to beauty education.
As I look ahead, my commitment remains clear: to keep learning, to keep sharing, and to keep honouring the trust placed in us as professionals. Beauty is a lifelong journey, and I am proud to walk it with BABTAC.”
Award: CIBTAC Centre
Sponsored by: No7 Beauty Company
WINNER: Dermalogica
“As a centre founded on education and dedicated to elevating professional standards, winning the CIBTAC Centre Award for 2025 is an incredible honour and a moment of immense pride for Dermalogica. This recognition affirms the values that have shaped us from the beginning - excellence, integrity, and our commitment to the advancement of our industry.
This award celebrates not just our programmes, but the dedication of our education team whose expertise, passion and pursuit of continual growth set the benchmark for training quality. It acknowledges the investment we make in ensuring skin therapists are equipped with the highest level of knowledge, practical skill and ethical responsibility as the landscape of medi-aesthetics evolves.
Most importantly, winning this award reinforces our purpose - to strengthen and champion the professional skincare industry. It validates the work we do to support therapists in achieving meaningful qualifications and future-ready careers, while upholding the credibility of the industry we deeply care about. We are truly honoured, and dedicated to continuing raising standards, and to keep shaping the future of professional skincare education with passion and integrity.” Janelle Couto, Education Skills Manager
Award: Digital Marketing
Sponsored by: Monsoon Consulting
WINNER: Banya No1
“Winning the Digital Marketing Award for the third year in a row is an incredible recognition of how we’ve managed to capture the spirit of something ancient and make it resonate in today’s world. Banya is still a relatively new concept in the UK, yet it carries over two thousand years of history and cultural depth in Russia.
Our goal has always been to make this experience accessible and exciting — not just another spa visit, but a vivid, sensory journey that stays with you. From the crackling steam and birch leaves to the refreshing plunge and relaxed conversations after, the Banya experience is as real and experiential as wellness gets.
It’s visually striking and emotionally memorable — which makes it both powerful to market and rewarding to share. Our campaigns reflect that: authentic storytelling, bold visuals, and a sense of belonging. This award celebrates not only our creativity but also the growing love for an experience that proves wellness can be raw, communal and deeply revitalising. I'm incredibly proud for our team that loves what we do and shares it with the world.” Andrei Fomin, Founder & CEO
Award: Employer of the Year
Sponsored by: Medik8
WINNER: Jenny Storey & Kate Berry, Urban Retreat
“This award is an incredible honour and a true reflection of the passion, care and commitment our team brings to everything we do. It means the world to us to be recognised, especially for the culture we’ve built together. We are genuinely grateful or our team.
At Urban Retreat, we’ve always believed that when people feel supported, inspired and valued, they can achieve amazing things. This award is a celebration of that belief — and of every stylist, therapist and team member who makes our salon such a special place to be.
For us, it’s more than an award. It’s a reminder that our team are at the heart of everything — the energy, warmth and talent that define who we are. We’re so proud of this recognition and even more excited to keep creating an environment where our team can continue to thrive, grow, and deliver exceptional experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.” Kate Berry, Co-founder
Award: Spa Leader of the Year
Sponsored by: ARMONIA Training Academy
WINNER: Rebecca Doyle, Wellness House Collective
“Winning this award for the second year in a row is a real honour. With over two decades of experience in five-star hospitality I remain just as passionate about supporting spas to go from functional to exceptional. I feel this award is a recognition of my commitment to excellence and innovation in the spa industry. It’s through this that I help teams to balance profit with purpose thereby ensuring guests leave feeling seen, valued and understood.”
Award: Sustainability Champion (individual/small salon)
Sponsored by: Janssen Cosmetics
WINNER: Langham Clinic
“I am absolutely delighted to be named the Sustainability Champion, after 35 years as a member. Sustainability isn't a recent trend for me; it’s a lifelong passion rooted in a childhood fascination with green issues and the natural world. I decided on a career as a beauty therapist at the age of 12 so it’s been wonderful to be able to combine the two. For me, beauty and wellness have always been intrinsically linked to responsibility — to our clients, our communities and our planet.
Winning this award, therefore, feels like the culmination of a personal and professional dream. It’s a validation that the countless small choices - from sourcing ethical suppliers, reducing my carbon footprint and creating minimal waste and educating our clients - add up to meaningful change. It affirms that a small salon can have a big heart and a clear conscience.
I hope my journey inspires other businesses, no matter their size, to see that improving their green credentials is achievable. BABTAC does an amazing job of upholding standards, and I am immensely proud that my commitment to a greener future has been championed in this way. This award is a catalyst for continued progress and I am thrilled to be part of that conversation.” Sasha Peggs, Owner
Award: Sustainability Champion (large salon/spa)
Sponsored by: bbspa
WINNER: Galgorm Spa
“To win this award is an incredible honour for everyone at Galgorm Spa and it carries deep meaning for our entire team. Sustainability has never been a marketing trend for us — it is a core commitment that shapes how we operate, plan and evolve. Receiving this recognition affirms that the hard work happening behind the scenes every day truly matters. It celebrates the dedication of our staff who continually look for new ways to reduce our environmental impact while still delivering exceptional guest experiences.
This award also reinforces that responsible tourism can be both luxurious and sustainable and that guests value destinations that protect the environment as much as they cherish relaxation and wellbeing. It inspires us to continue pushing boundaries, adopting innovative practices, and collaborating with partners who share our values.
Winning this award means pride, purpose, and renewed commitment—and we are truly grateful for the acknowledgment.” Tara Moore, Associate Director of Spa Operations
Award: Individual Salon
Sponsored by: Beauty Directors Club
WINNER: British Beauty Salon, Suffolk
“Three years ago, I entered these awards to inspire my little girl - and now my little boy too. I wanted to show them both that whatever they choose to do in life, if they work hard and stay true to themselves, they can achieve incredible things. Being a mum and a woman in business isn’t always easy, but it’s something I’m deeply proud of. I want my children to grow up knowing that their mum followed her dreams, even when it was challenging and that they can do the same.
Since I was 18, I’ve dreamed of having my own salon. I’ve worked in so many areas of the industry - from boutique salons to teaching and everything in between - but I never imagined that one day my business would be recognised as number one nationwide. There have been highs and lows, including having to close just one month after opening because of Covid.
This win is deeply personal for me and my family, third time lucky! It also feels like a win for women and mums in business, and for the amazing local businesses around me who continue to inspire and support one another.” Emily Shelley, Owner
Award: Small Salon
Sponsored by: HARA Professional
WINNER: Skin Couture Beauty
“Winning this award marks a significant milestone for our team, our guests and our local community. It represents years of dedication, growth and a shared belief in delivering excellence. This recognition not only validates our commitment to our craft but also strengthens our bond as a team, united by the goal of offering the highest standards of service, care and safety within our industry.
Returning to the salon and celebrating with our guests has been a wonderful experience. Many of them expressed confidence that we would achieve this honour, making the celebration even more meaningful. Since the win, we’ve expanded our network, built new professional relationships and been featured in several local news outlets - an exciting step forward for our small but passionate salon.
On a personal level, this award is something I will cherish for years to come. It is an achievement I will proudly share with my children and perhaps one day their children, as a reminder of what dedication and passion can build. I hope it shows that with hard work and determination, dreams that once felt distant can become a reality.” Toni-Lee Richardson, Owner
Award: Large Salon
Sponsored by: GUINOT
WINNER: Beauty and Aesthetics at the Gate
“Winning Large Salon of the Year for the first time last year after trying for so many years was very emotional and meant the world to us, but to follow that up and win again this year is beyond our wildest dreams.
Each year the standard gets higher, and the competition gets tougher. This year was exceptional and the fact it was the largest number of finalists ever made winning all the more special. We are extremely humbled and feel very lucky. Each of the finalists would have been worthy winners and it is fantastic to meet and speak to other salon owners who understand what it takes to run a large salon these days, some we consider now to be friends.
From a business perspective, winning the award really helps on so many levels, form raising awareness and bringing in new clients to attracting staff. We would whole heartedly recommend every salon owner and therapist to enter these awards, not just for the recognition and rewards but also as a huge thank you to yourself and your staff for everything you do to run a successful salon.” Paul Beatty, Co-owner
Award: Boutique Spa
Sponsored by: KNOWN
WINNER: Si! Spa at The Gailes
“Winning Boutique Spa of the Year at the BABTAC and CIBTAC Awards for the second year running means the world to us. This is one of the most prestigious UK-wide awards, judged by industry peers, so to be recognised again is an incredible honour that brings fantastic awareness to Si! Spa and shines a spotlight on our hardworking, passionate team.
For me, this award reinforces the importance of maintaining the highest standards, investing in continuous training, and always striving to elevate the guest experience. I’m immensely proud of our team and I would absolutely encourage other businesses to enter next year’s awards, the process is motivating, rewarding, and truly pushes you to be your best.” Rebecca Simpson, Group Spa & Leisure Manager
Award: Outstanding Wellbeing Journey
WINNER: Pure Day Spa
“Winning this Award is a confirmation and a new inspiration for Pure Day Spa. For twenty-two years, we have aimed to redefine beauty and wellness in Ireland, pioneering a holistic, client-centred approach long before “wellbeing” became standard industry language. This recognition honours not only our commitment to excellence but also the values that have guided us from the start: integrity, care, and genuine passion for each client.
The introduction of the new ‘Outstanding Wellbeing’ category—sparked by our work—underscores the broader significance of what we do. It shows that prioritising wellbeing is not just a choice, but a standard the industry should embrace, and that a spa’s influence can extend far beyond treatment rooms to shape wider practices and expectations.
For our team, under the leadership of founder Elain Murphy, the award is deeply humbling and energising. It confirms that years of dedication make a difference, while inspiring us to keep innovating under new creative leadership from Clara Jean Potts. For our clients, colleagues, and peers, it represents trust, quality, and leadership. Winning is a moment of pride—but, above all, a responsibility to continue shaping the future of wellness.” Clara Jean Potts, Creative Director
Award: Destination Spa
Sponsored by: Natura Bissé
WINNER: The Spa at Turnberry
“This has been a moment of immense pride for all of us at The Spa at Turnberry. It recognises the countless thoughtful moments when our team goes above and beyond to make every guest feel restored and cared for. At Turnberry, we aim for excellence in everything we do and this award reflects the commitment that runs throughout our entire team. Our focus on nurturing new talent, supporting apprentices and fostering a culture of continuous growth has shaped who we are, and having this recognised on a national level is deeply rewarding.
It also honours the expertise and professionalism within The Spa at Turnberry. From delivering treatments with care and precision to maintaining a calm, luxurious atmosphere, every individual contributes to the elevated experience our guests expect. Our facilities play a meaningful part in this, especially the infinity pool with its sweeping views across the coastline and out towards Ailsa Craig, a setting that naturally encourages relaxation and a deep sense of escape. Above all, this achievement is a testament to the unity, dedication and heartfelt passion at the core of The Spa at Turnberry.” Michelle Kerr, Spa Manager