INDUSTRY EVENT

A STAR-STUDDED EVENT

Marvel over photos & insider info from the greatest night in the UK&I nail industry calendar & discover the Scratch Stars Awards 2026 champions

HELENA BIGGS REPORTS

U nder the twinkling lights of London’s The Underglobe, 300 members of the nail industry, plus partners and peers, gathered to enjoy a celebration of the sector. The Scratch Stars Party is my favourite night of the year: one where passion is magnified and spirits are high.

For 14 years, Scratch has recognised the excellence of individuals, teams and businesses via the Scratch Stars Awards. We host the annual party to unveil the winners, and provide the industry with a well-earned evening of fun and fabulous entertainment. On Sunday 5 July, attendees – who were dressed in their finery – stopped for snaps outside the venue, before making their way downstairs into The Underglobe. The stage was set for awards announcements and live performances, and guests took their seats at tables adorned with sparkles, star-shaped balloons and bright pink goody bags, which were packed with products from sponsors and beauty brands.

Glasses of prosecco, courtesy of Studex, were in abundance, and cheerful chatter could be heard while connections were made and reunions enjoyed. DJ Richelle played feel-good anthems to ignite the atmosphere, before the five-minute countdown began for the awards presentation. The lights dimmed and the video wall played proud messages from sponsors, marking the commencement of the awards. I took to the stage to see the room filled with glamorous guests and glimmers of glittering nail art – plus partygoers sporting star-shaped glasses that had been provided to enhance the evening’s theme. Eyes then turned to the centre of the room as celebrity host, Aston Merrygold, made his way through the crowd.

The song, ‘Everybody in Love’, by his band, JLS, played on speakers and was accompanied by the sensational Liz Sax, whose saxophone covered in fairy lights provided music to elevate his entrance. As Aston took to the lectern, the crowds cheered and he opened proceedings, before we recognised four entrants into the Hall Of Fame from the previous year. Scratch editor, Rebecca Hitchon, and multiplatform writer, Jess Watts, welcomed to the stage Clare Woodcock – Ultimate Mobile Nailist; Lucy Price – Ultimate Natural Nail Specialist, Danielle Brindley – Ultimate Polish & Paint Nail Artist, and the Glitterbels Education Team – Ultimate Nail Team. Each received a glass trophy to mark their achievements: three wins in the same category, and promotion to judge if desired.

Keen to discover whether there would be any entrants into the Hall Of Fame in 2026, the announcements of the winners of the first 10 categories then took place. The oh-so charismatic Aston introduced each category and invited its sponsor representative on stage, while I read the names of the finalists and their photos showed on screens. The thrills were tangible inside the room and finalists clutched hands beneath the tables, before each sponsor opened a golden envelope to reveal their category winner. Across the technical, artistic and social media categories, there were tears of triumph and speeches full of gratitude and happiness, as winners were recognised for their achievements over the past year.

A 30-minute break allowed the first cohort of winners to embrace congratulatory remarks from their peers, and indulge in canapés, pick ‘n’ mix (which attracts a crowd year on year) and themed cocktails, including the aptly named Scratch-tinis. DJ Richelle and Liz Sax kept the energy high with upbeat music, and stunning nail styles walked the manicure runway.

The second half of the awards saw winners of the business and specialist categories announced, and culminated in the Services to the Nail Industry Award, which was presented to Nailympia Competitions global director & Scratch and Nail Safari co-founder, Alex Fox. With a friendship that spans around 25 years, she was overwhelmed to receive the trophy from this month’s front cover stars and previous recipients of the award, Samuel and Samantha Sweet of Sweet Squared. It was also my honour to detail Alex’s career achievements to the adoring room, who congratulated her with a standing ovation and hearty applause.

As a host and organiser of the Scratch Stars Awards, there is something incredibly special about witnessing winner reactions first-hand. Seeing dedication rewarded in front of peers, who truly understand the hard work behind every achievement, is a privilege I’ll never take for granted. Whether it was a first-time finalist collecting their trophy or an established professional adding another accolade to their collection, every winner represented the passion and professionalism that continues to drive our industry forward.

With spirits high and finalists glowing in the spotlights of their well-deserved achievements, the party portion of the evening commenced, with an energetic performance from Big Brovaz and Booty Luv. A conga line ensued around the room with Liz Sax leading the way, and the dancefloor became as busy as the awards stage. Conversations flowed, memories were made and, for one night, everyone could simply enjoy celebrating an industry they love.

The Scratch Stars Party wasn’t only a night to commemorate individual successes. Beyond the glittering stage and applause, it celebrated a community that continually inspires with its creativity, resilience and generosity. Competitors congratulated one another, former finalists and winners recognised newcomers, and sponsors and judges supported their achievements. It was a reminder that while the Scratch Stars Awards recognise excellence, the industry itself thrives because of the support, encouragement and friendships that exist behind-the-scenes.

Every year, I’m reminded that this industry is about much more than beautiful nails. It’s about ambition, artistry, camaraderie, kindness and an unwavering desire to keep learning and elevating skills.

To every finalist, winner, sponsor, judge and guest who joined us in 2026 – thank you for making the awards experience and The Scratch Stars Party truly memorable. Here’s to another year of raising standards, championing talent and creating even more reasons to celebrate together.

Aston Merrygold & Helena Biggs

THE SCRATCH STARS AWARDS 2026 WINNERS

Natural Nail Specialist of the Year sponsored by Hara Professional JESSICA PRICE

L&P Tech of the Year sponsored by Katie Barnes Tool Range & Education KYLEA WHERRY

Builder Gel Tech of the Year sponsored by The GelBottle Inc LUCY PRICE

Gel Tech of the Year sponsored by LE UK Nails & Education JUSTYNA PRYKE

Polish & Paint Nail Artist of the Year sponsored by Andreia Professional MONIKA FERREIRA

Mixed Media Artist of the Year sponsored by HD Pro Nail Systems ALICE NALI

Gel Polish Stylist of the Year sponsored by OPI DANNIKA MAJEWSKI

Pedicurist of the Year sponsored by The Nail Lab UK KRISTINE TOCE

Nail Stylist of the Year sponsored by Glitterbels KIRSTY MCDONOUGH

Social Media Star of the Year sponsored by Halo Gel Polish Plus+ KATIE BARNES TOOL RANGE

Mobile Nailist of the Year sponsored by Timely JADE THORNHILL

Educator of the Year sponsored by ABT – part of Howden MICHELLE BROOKES

Online Educator of the Year sponsored by Trafford & Stockport College HAZEL DIXON

Home Nail Salon of the Year sponsored by Gelish CHELL’S BEAUTY BY THE SEA, ESSEX

Nail & Beauty Salon of the Year sponsored by ABT – part of Howden KATE LIFESTYLE, ESSEX

Nail Salon of the Year sponsored by VODEX THE NAIL GROUP, LONDON

Nail Team of the Year sponsored by Cuticleco. OPI EDUCATION TEAM

The Shooting Star Award presented by Scratch ZOYA MAC

Services to the Nail Industry sponsored by Sweet Squared ALEX FOX

“My Scratch Stars Awards journey has been one of the biggest emotional rollercoasters of my career, but it’s also something I will treasure forever. Every entry, challenge, moment of doubt and achievement has pushed me to become a better nail technician. The process has given me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone, challenge my creativity and prove my capabilities to myself. “The awards evening is always such a magical experience. Walking into a room filled with so many talented, passionate people, all celebrating their hard work and achievements, creates an atmosphere that is truly unforgettable. “Winning the Scratch Stars Nail Stylist of the Year title for two consecutive years feels incredible. Behind every entry are hours of practice, dedication, sacrifice and a constant drive to improve, so to see my hard work pay off feels very special. “I’m so grateful for every opportunity the Scratch Stars Awards has given me, as well as the memories I’ve made, lessons I’ve learned and the growth of my skills.”

Kirsty McDonough, Scratch Stars Nail Stylist of the Year 2026

“I am proud and honoured to have been named Scratch Stars Educator of the Year 2026 and inducted into the Hall Of Fame as Scratch Stars Ultimate Educator. I have been working towards this goal for several years, and my hard work, dedication and passion have paid off; I can’t stop smiling! “I have been part of the Scratch Stars Awards since their inception and my experiences have been amazing. Every year I have entered has pushed me to grow, and I genuinely encourage anyone in the industry to give it a go. You never know where the journey might take you. “I’m also very excited to take on the role of Scratch Stars Awards judge, where I’ll have the opportunity to support and celebrate the incredible talent within the nail sector. “Thank you to Scratch for organising such a fantastic event, to ABT – part of Howden for sponsoring the Educator of the Year award 2026, and to every person who has supported, encouraged and believed in me. The Scratch Stars Party is the best night of the year!”

Michelle Brookes, Scratch Stars Educator of the Year 2026

“Education is at the heart of everything I do. Each year I attend The Scratch Stars Party, I’m reminded of just how talented our industry is, so to hear my name announced as Scratch Stars Online Educator of the Year was completely overwhelming. Winning this award is an honour because it recognises the passion, dedication and countless hours that go into creating meaningful education for nail professionals. “I’m truly grateful to every student who chooses to learn with me, to everyone who supports my journey, and to my amazing team and family who help make it all possible. Receiving this award is one of my proudest moments.”

Hazel Dixon, Scratch Stars Online Educator of the Year 2026

“The Scratch Stars Party was an amazing night! Winning the award for Nail & Beauty Salon of the Year is an incredible honour and a real testament to the team’s hard work and dedication. It was a proud moment and wonderful to celebrate alongside so many talented people. We’re grateful for the recognition and excited to continue building on our success.”

Kate Driscoll of Kate Lifestyle, Scratch Stars Nail & Beauty Salon of the Year 2026

“When I entered this year’s awards, it was a last-minute decision as I was full of self-doubt. I was delighted to be a finalist, but I thought I didn’t stand a chance against the other pros in my category. However, I completed my nail art in the allotted time at the competition day, and felt proud of what I achieved. Kirsty Meakin, who was judging, looked at my work and simply said, ‘Wow’, and I already felt like a champion. “Attending the party was a fantastic experience, and hearing my name announced as the winner of the Polish & Paint Nail Artist category was an unforgettable moment. It made me realise how important it is to keep putting yourself out there. Don’t overthink it; take the chance, gain the experience and if it doesn’t work out, try again because hard work always pays off. Sometimes the reward is a first-place trophy, and sometimes it’s the confidence, knowledge and experience you gain on the journey. It’s always worth taking a chance.”

Monika Ferreira, Scratch Stars Polish & Paint Nail Artist of the Year 2026

“To be recognised as Scratch Stars Gel Polish Stylist of the Year 2026 is such an honour. I had the most amazing experience taking part in the competition and made lifelong friends. I poured my heart into creating an entry that combined technical skill with my personality, and I hope this encourages and inspires others to trust their instincts and create work that reflects who they are, rather than who they think they should be. If my journey helps even one artist believe there’s space for them in this industry, regardless of where they’ve come from, then that makes me even prouder.”

Dannika Majewski, Scratch Stars Gel Polish Stylist of the Year 2026

“Winning this award feels incredibly special. We first won the Scratch Stars Social Media Star of the Year title when the category launched in 2016, so to receive it 10 years later is a full-circle moment. I’m so proud of the Katie Barnes Tool Range team, who support the industry and the brand with creativity, commitment and passion.”

Katie Clark on behalf of Katie Barnes Tool Range, Scratch Stars Social Media Star of the Year 2026

“It feels surreal to have won the Scratch Stars Mobile Nailist of the Year award 2026. I had to rebuild my life, and built my business alongside this. My aim is to create luxury experiences for clients in their own homes, so to be recognised for achieving this makes me so happy. “The accolade has helped me reflect on how far I have come in my career. To be honoured by the nail industry’s leading awards is incredibly validating and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

Jade Thornhill, Scratch Stars Mobile Nailist of the Year 2026

“Shocked, humbled, thrilled and delighted doesn’t even begin to describe how I felt when I received the Scratch Stars Services to the Nail Industry award. Since my nail industry journey began in 1998, my purpose has never changed. It’s always been about the people: supporting nail artists, championing their talents and helping to elevate the nail profession so it receives the recognition it deserves. “I want the world to see what I see: extraordinary artists, innovators, educators, entrepreneurs and craftspeople whose creativity, sensitivity, empathy and business acumen deserve respect. I want to help create opportunities where nail professionals can stand proudly on a stage, showcase their skills, inspire others and be celebrated for the remarkable work they do. “The beauty industry – and indeed the world, is a richer place because of nail artists. Every day they create confidence, connection and joy through heir work, making people feel seen, cared for and beautiful. To receive an award for doing something I’ve loved for nearly three decades is an honour beyond words. Thank you to everyone who’s trusted me, worked alongside me, challenged me, encouraged me and shared this journey. “My heart is full, and my passion burns brighter than ever. Here’s to continuing to elevate, inspire and celebrate this extraordinary profession that I am so proud to call home.”

Alex Fox, 2026 recipient of the Scratch Stars Services to the Nail Industry award

“Winning the Scratch Stars Nail Team of the Year title one year after creating a new team structure is a moment we’ll never forget. The OPI Education Team is immensely proud of its achievement and excited for what lies ahead. We remain committed to uplifting the industry, delivering exceptional education and building lasting relationships that support nail professionals. Roll on the Scratch Stars Awards 2027!”

Charlotte Lowe, OPI education brand manager on behalf of the OPI Education Team, Scratch Stars Nail Team of the Year 2026

“It feels amazing to win the Scratch Stars Natural Nail Specialist of the Year award. The live competition is nerve-wracking, but a great challenge and way to meet so many amazing people in the industry. I’m incredibly proud and grateful for the support I have received.”

Jessica Price, Scratch Stars Natural Nail Specialist of the Year 2026

“Winning the Scratch Stars Gel Tech of the Year title for the third time is a career highlight. Each award represents a different chapter of my journey – not only as a nail technician, but as a person. Every time I’ve entered the Scratch Stars Awards, I’ve pushed myself beyond my comfort zone, challenged my own standards and grown in confidence. “Being inducted into the Scratch Stars Hall Of Fame makes this win even more special. It’s a reminder of how far I’ve come through hard work, passion and consistency. To now take the next step as a judge feels like a full-circle moment. It’s a privilege to move from being inspired by this competition to helping recognise and celebrate the talent of others. “This accolade isn’t just about winning – it’s about believing in yourself enough to take that chance. The Scratch Stars Awards has played such an important role in my journey, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunities, encouragement and recognition it has given me.”

Justyna Pryke, Scratch Stars Gel Tech of the Year 2026

“There’s always so much to learn when competing, and entering the Scratch Stars Builder Gel Tech of the Year category, which was new for 2026, felt like going on a blind date. I was so happy to be selected as a finalist and am beyond giddy to have won, as the talent in this category was incredible.”

Lucy Price, Scratch Stars Builder Gel Tech of the Year 2026

“Winning the Scratch Stars Shooting Star Award 2026 means so much to me, especially as our industry – and this category – holds so much talent. My career journey has been amazing, and I am so grateful to everyone who’s supported me along the way. This award is something I’ll always be proud of, and it motivates me even more to keep creating, teaching and sharing what I love.”

Zoya Mac, recipient of the Scratch Stars Shooting Star Award 2026

“Winning the Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year title for a second year is a great honour, but what makes it truly meaningful is knowing that the recognition belongs to so many people: the team, whose passion and dedication shine every day; our wonderful clients, who trust us and grow with us, and our Tottenham community, who have supported us from the very beginning. At The Nail Group, we’ve always believed in operating to the highest standards while building more than beautiful nails – we’re building confidence, connection and a place where people feel they belong. To be recognised by our industry for both our standards and values is something we will never take for granted.”

Susan Nguyen on behalf of The Nail Group, Scratch Stars Nail Salon of the Year 2026

“Winning the Scratch Stars L&P Tech of the Year title for a third time is my greatest career achievement, and something I’ve been working towards for the past six years. To be the first L&P tech in the Hall Of Fame makes the achievement even more surreal, and taking the next step in my journey as a Scratch Stars Awards judge is very exciting. “Competing has opened so many doors throughout my career, and I’m incredibly grateful for every opportunity. Thank you to Scratch for creating a platform that continues to inspire nail professionals to challenge themselves and strive for excellence.”

Kylea Wherry, Scratch Stars L&P Tech of the Year 2026

“For some time, I have doubted myself and my skills, so I decided to challenge myself by entering the Scratch Stars Awards, and it has been a wonderful adventure. Winning the Scratch Stars Pedicurist of the Year title has been very self-assuring. I cannot believe how many people have commented on my work, and this has encouraged me to share my knowledge with others. I am so grateful for the experience, which has been good for my mind and soul.”

Kristine Toce, Scratch Stars Pedicurist of the Year 2026

“I always love participating in the Scratch Stars Awards because the vibe is simply amazing! The challenges faced help me push my skills and creativity further, and improve my everyday work. “I also love meeting and getting to know the other competitors. I feel that everyone is trying to compete with themselves rather than against each other, and that’s one of the things I appreciate most about these awards. “Winning the Scratch Stars Mixed Media Artist of the Year title is a dream come true, as mixed media is my favourite type of art. The trophy recognises years of practice and hard work, and I’m so grateful for it!”

Alice Nali, Scratch Stars Mixed Media Artist of the Year 2026

“Being part of the Scratch Stars Awards has been an amazing experience. To be recognised alongside so many talented nail professionals is something I never take for granted, and it’s incredibly inspiring to be part of an industry that celebrates passion, creativity and hard work. Winning the Scratch Stars Home Nail Salon of the Year category for a second year is an honour I’ll always be grateful for. I found out while I was in Japan, just before travelling home, and it was the perfect way to end an unforgettable trip. This award means so much because it’s a reflection of the trust and support of my wonderful clients, who make everything I do possible. It motivates me to keep growing, learning and giving every client the best experience I can.”

Michelle Brown of Chell’s Beauty By The Sea, Scratch Stars Home Nail Salon of the Year 2026

The Scratch Stars Party prosecco reception was sponsored by