Jenny Hainsworth and Kirstie Bowdin Emsley, Era Harrogate Secures Place Among Britain’s Hairdressing Elite as British Hairdressing Awards 2026 Finalists Are Revealed
Jenny Hainsworth and Kirstie Bowdin Emsley, Era Harrogate are celebrating after being named a finalist in HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards 2026, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional.
Selected from an exceptionally competitive field of entries from across the UK, Jenny and Kirstie have earned a coveted place in the finals of the North Eastern hairdresser of the year category, recognising outstanding creativity, technical excellence and artistic vision. The achievement places Jenny and Kirstie among the industry’s most exciting talents and one step closer to taking home one of hairdressing’s highest honours.
The winners will be announced at the prestigious British Hairdressing Awards ceremony, taking place at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House, London, on Monday 23 November 2026.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential events in the professional hairdressing calendar, the British Hairdressing Awards celebrate the individuals and teams shaping the future of the industry. From innovative salon professionals and colour specialists to creative pioneers, the awards continue to recognise the talent, passion and dedication that keep British hairdressing at the forefront of the global stage.
The first stage of judging took place on Monday 20 July 2026 at Novotel London West, where an esteemed panel of industry experts reviewed hundreds of entries across 18 Regional, International and Specialist categories throughout the UK and Northern Ireland. Judges praised the exceptionally high standard of work, with finalists demonstrating remarkable creativity, craftsmanship and originality.
The second round of judging will take place during Salon International at ExceL London on Sunday 4 October 2026, where judges will reconvene to select the winners in each category. British and Session Hairdressers of the year were nominated separately by an elite panel of Industry leaders and press and will be displayed at the second-round judging as well. With competition fiercer than ever, anticipation is already building for the final results.
Jenny and Kirstie of Era Harrogate said:
To be recognised as a finalist at the British Hairdressing Awards is an incredible honour.
Our collection is a true reflection of who we are as artists—embracing natural beauty, thoughtful design and modern, fashion-led hair.
We are constantly pushing ourselves creatively, exploring new ideas and evolving our craft, so to have that recognised by such a respected panel means the world.
We’re incredibly proud to represent ERA and Harrogate on one of the industry’s biggest stages, and we’re excited to celebrate alongside so many inspiring artists this November.
Mark Moloney, Managing Director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards, said:
The British Hairdressing Awards showcases the incredible depth of talent within our industry.
This year, our finalists have raised the bar, delivering work that is not only technically outstanding but also creatively inspiring.
These collections reflect the innovation, passion and dedication that make British hairdressing admired around the world.
To be named a finalist is a remarkable achievement, and I would like to congratulate everyone who has reached this stage of the competition.
Mert Eren, General Manager for Henkel Consumer Brands Hair Professional UK & Ireland at Schwarzkopf Professional, added:
At Schwarzkopf Professional, we are proud to support an event that celebrates the artists and innovators driving our industry forward. The British Hairdressing Awards continue to champion excellence and provide a platform for hairdressers to showcase their creativity on a national stage.
Save the Date: Monday, 23 November 2026
