Remi Cachet Awards Success Story: Natalie Hands Owner Of Strut Hairdressing
We caught up with Natalie Hands, owner of Strut Hairdressing and our Hair Extensionist Of The Year - West Midlands winner at the Remi Cachet 2023 Awards to discuss how the win has impacted her business and why YOU should enter for next year...
Q: Congratulations on winning Hair Extensionist Of The Year: West Midlands at our 2023 Summer Ball And Awards. What did winning this award mean to you?
A: Winning the title of Hair Extensionist Of The Year for the West Midlands at the 2023 Summer Ball And Awards was a significant milestone in my career. It meant the world to me. This achievement has not only boosted my confidence but also given me valuable content for my marketing efforts. The evening itself was a fantastic networking opportunity, and it's essential to attend even if you're not a finalist. It's not just about recognition but also about building connections and supporting fellow professionals in the industry. So, winning this award has been a combination of personal and professional growth, all while celebrating industry camaraderie.
Q:Tell us more about how winning this award has impacted your business, Strut Hairdressing.
A: Winning the title of West Midlands Hair Extensionist of the Year 2023 has had a profound impact on Strut Hairdressing, both in terms of acquiring new clients and celebrating with our existing ones.
Equally important, our existing clients have celebrated our success with tremendous enthusiasm. They take pride in being associated with a salon that excels in the industry. Many of them have become our strongest advocates, spreading the word about our accomplishments and encouraging their friends and family to experience our services.
In essence, winning this award has not only increased our clientele but also fostered a sense of community and pride among our loyal customers, making it a truly remarkable and rewarding experience for Strut Hairdressing.
Q: Has winning the award helped you to reach any new clients?
A: The recognition has significantly boosted our salon's reputation. We've noticed a surge in new clients who are eager to have their hair done by what they perceive as the best in the business. This award has served as a powerful endorsement, attracting individuals who value quality and expertise in hair extensions.
The images taken from the awards evening have proven to be a powerful marketing tool in this regard. These images serve as a visual testament to our expertise and success, providing prospective clients with a glimpse of the quality and professionalism they can expect when they choose our services. They convey the excitement, pride, and excellence that our salon represents.What makes these images particularly effective is their ability to create an emotional connection with potential clients. They capture the joy and celebration of our achievement, which resonates with those seeking not just a hair service but an experience. These visuals help us stand out in a crowded market and make a strong case for why we are the best choice for their hair needs.
Q: What do you believe the best part of winning a Remi Cachet award is?
A: The best part of winning a Remi Cachet award is the validation and recognition it brings to our hard work and dedication in the field of hair extensions. It signifies that we are not just providing a service but excelling in it, and that our commitment to quality and innovation is being acknowledged by industry experts and peers. It's a source of immense pride and motivation, encouraging us to continue pushing the boundaries and delivering the best possible results to our clients. Winning this award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the exceptional team and the values we uphold at our salon.
Q: Have you noticed any impact in your social media engagement since you have won the award?
A: Winning the Remi Cachet award has indeed had a noticeable impact on our social media engagement. The recognition has gained increased attention and interaction from our followers and clients. People are more eager to like, comment, and share our posts, celebrating our achievements.
Moreover, the support from fellow Remi Cachet extensionists has been remarkable. The community of extensionists has come together to celebrate each other's successes, offering congratulations and showcasing solidarity within the industry. This support not only boosts engagement but also creates a sense of unity and shared commitment to excellence.
Winning the award has not only elevated our social media engagement but has also strengthened the connections within the Remi Cachet extensionist community, emphasising the mutual support and respect that exists among professionals in the field.
Q: Would you encourage your fellow stylists to enter the 2024 Remi Cachet Awards?
A: Absolutely, I wholeheartedly encourage my fellow stylists to enter the 2024 Remi Cachet Awards. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that it's an opportunity you shouldn't miss. I can speak from personal experience in emphasising the significance of attending these awards.
In 2022, I was fortunate enough to win this award for the first time and the positive impact on my business was undeniable. However, what I want to stress is that the benefits go beyond just winning. The decision to fly back from my holiday early to attend the awards was undoubtedly one of the best choices I've made in my career.
The event provides a unique platform for networking, learning, and gaining exposure. It's a chance to connect with fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and celebrate industry accomplishments. Regardless of whether you secure the award, being a part of this gathering is an invaluable experience that can propel your career to new heights. So, I wholeheartedly recommend entering the 2024 Remi Cachet Awards and making the commitment to attend the event. It's an investment in your growth and professional journey that's well worth it.
Q: What category would you like to see be included in next year's Remi Cachet Awards?
A: I would like to suggest the inclusion of a "Highest Sales in Each Region" category in next year's Remi Cachet Awards, with the added recognition of awarding the winners as Regional Ambassadors for the following year. This category would celebrate and motivate top-performing stylists who have not only excelled in their craft but also demonstrated outstanding sales and business acumen.
By acknowledging and rewarding those who achieve the highest sales in various regions, we can inspire healthy competition and drive better results. Moreover, designating these winners as Regional Ambassadors would recognise their commitment to the brand and industry. They could act as role models and liaisons, sharing their knowledge and experiences with their peers while representing Remi Cachet in their respective regions. This addition would not only promote sales excellence but also enhance brand presence and strengthen the sense of community among Remi Cachet stylists.
Q: Excluding winning your award, what was your favourite moment of the evening?
A: Excluding winning the award, my favourite moment of the evening was undoubtedly the after-party. It provided a fantastic opportunity to unwind, let loose, and connect with fellow stylists. Dancing and socialising in a more relaxed atmosphere was a great way to build personal and professional relationships within the industry. The shared experiences made the evening memorable and further emphasised the sense of unity and support among our peers. It's these moments of genuine connection and celebration that make events like this truly special.
Q: Will you be entering the 2024 Remi Cachet Awards?
A: Absolutely, 100% yes, I will be entering the 2024 Remi Cachet Awards and attending the event. In fact, I'm eagerly awaiting the dates before I even think about booking any holidays, just in case they clash. After my experience this year, where I had to book an early flight back to attend the awards, I wouldn't want to miss the opportunity to be part of this fantastic celebration and industry gathering. It's an event I'm looking forward to with great anticipation!
Q: Finally, what advice would you give to your fellow stylists who are thinking about entering the Remi Cachet Awards in 2024?
A: My advice to fellow stylists considering entering the Remi Cachet Awards in 2024 would be to go for it. The experience offers so much more than just the possibility of winning.
Firstly, it's about the fun and friendships made. You'll connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences, and build a network that can be invaluable in your career. The positive impact on your business is undeniable. Winning or not, the recognition you receive and the exposure you gain can significantly boost your salon's reputation and clientele.
Furthermore, the evening is a fantastic opportunity to capture content for your marketing purposes. The images and stories from the awards can be used throughout the year to showcase your expertise and the industry recognition you've received.
Lastly, there's the exciting possibility of winning, which can be a game-changer for your career. So, my advice is to embrace the opportunity, enjoy the journey, and make the most of the benefits that the Remi Cachet Awards offer. It's an experience that can truly elevate your professional life.
Our awards evenings are certainly a night to remember celebrating amazing stylists like you for all of your hard work over the year, it is an opportunity that is not to be missed...Our 2024 awards are now open so make sure you enter for your chance to win and following in Natalie's and other industry professionals footsteps. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity and enter now.
