The Scratch Stars Awards 2025: Why Enter?

Past winners share the benefits of entering the prestigious Scratch Stars Awards & how to nail your entry

If your nail skills are sharp, you’re passionate about business growth and you offer a top-notch client experience, you’re on the right path to scooping a Scratch Star. The awards process has been carefully curated to recognise amazing all-rounders, so don’t hold back from filling in a free entry form.

While it’s common to suffer with imposter syndrome and think ‘I’m not going to win, so I won’t bother entering’, you may never know how you stand up against fellow pros and businesses unless you seize this industry opportunity. The process itself is incredibly valuable, even if you don’t take the top title.

Completing an entry form allows you to consider areas of your business that may need refining, and being shortlisted for an award serves as a powerful endorsement of skill, creativity and excellence. It signals to clients, peers and brands that you are among the best in your field. What’s more, recognition can help build trust and establish a strong reputation, attracting new clients and opportunities.

Beyond credibility, the Scratch Stars Awards provides excellent marketing value. Finalist or winner status gives you unique content to promote on social media, your website and in business materials, and press coverage often follows, expanding visibility beyond existing clients. The awards also create networking opportunities and chances for self-reflection.

ENTRY CLOSES 10 MARCH

“The Scratch Stars Awards is for everyone,” shares Kayley Cairns, Scratch Stars Nail Stylist of the Year 2024. “I first entered the competition nine years ago and didn’t reach the final. It was another two years before I won an award, and now I am in the Scratch Stars Hall of Fame after winning the Nail Stylist of the Year category three times.

“My awards demonstrate that even pros who are introverted and don’t have a huge online presence can be recognised for their skills. With hard work, perseverance and the courage to keep trying, you too can succeed!”

TOP TIPS FOR SUCCESS

By Natasha Barker @nichenailbeauty
Owner of Niche Nails & Beauty, Witney, Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year 2024

“Niche Nails & Beauty was honoured to be a finalist in the Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year category in 2017 and 2019. After each event, the team and I digested the judges' feedback, making improvements where needed and striving to create a five-star salon experience. Last year, I knew the time was right to enter again.

“It’s easy to assume that large, ‘Instagrammable’ salons have the edge, but the awards focus on what truly matters: the client journey, experience and value delivered at every appointment. Excellence is about the care, skill and passion behind each service.

“Winning the top title in 2024 filled me with immense pride. My team’s belief in me and our shared vision for the salon has helped shape an award-winning business. If you're considering entering the Scratch Stars Awards, go for it! Reach out to past finalists for insights, and don’t wait until the last minute to complete your application.

“If you don’t reach the final, you’ll still learn a lot from the entry process. It pushes you to reflect on your business, identify areas for growth and refine your approach. While winning is an incredible achievement, the lessons learned, feedback received and overall experience make the journey invaluable.”

THE ENTRY EXPERIENCE

By Jiak Hing @jark.nails
Three-time winner of the Scratch Stars Gel Polish Stylist of the Year award

“I entered the Scratch Stars Awards to challenge myself and test my skills against the best in the industry. Many nail artists I admire encouraged me to enter, and I saw the competition as the perfect opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. Each awards experience has been exciting and unforgettable, and supported my personal and professional growth.

“Last year, I achieved the Gel Polish Stylist of the Year accolade for a third time and entered the Hall of Fame for the category. Winning felt like receiving an Oscar and was truly one of the best moments of my life!

“My awards experiences have taught me to value continuous learning and never stop trying to improve. Being surrounded by talented professionals has motivated me to reach new goals. I have also gained renewed appreciation for the hard work and dedication that being a nail professional requires.

“Entering the Scratch Stars Awards offers a chance to step outside of your comfort zone and elevate your skills.”

“My abilities have been recognised and doors have been opened to business opportunities. I’ve also made lifelong friendships from the judging days and by attending the infamous Scratch Stars Party.

“Nail competitions may seem intimidating, but they are so rewarding. Each process gives you a chance to refine your craft, build confidence and create amazing memories. Don’t let fear hold you back: take the first step and submit an entry.”

★★★★★
“Receiving the Scratch Stars Educator of the Year title in 2024 has cemented the quality of education I provide and underscored my unwavering commitment to students. This recognition has fuelled my desire to continue striving for excellence.”
Melanie Lewendon, Scratch Stars Educator of the Year 2024