
Julie-Anne Thomson has been named a finalist at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2026
A Hull beauty therapist is celebrating national recognition after being named a finalist for Nail Technician of the Year and will be representing the city at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2026. Julie-Anne Thomson runs The Beauty Stop By Julie and the recognition places her salon among the most accomplished in the UK.
Julie-Anne said: “I am incredibly honoured and thrilled to be recognised as a finalist at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards. This journey hasn’t been easy.
“Alongside building my business, I’ve been navigating chronic health conditions and even recovering from a stroke – moments that tested me in ways I never expected. There were times I didn’t know if I’d be able to keep going… but I did.
“And this right here means everything. To my incredible clients, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
“Your support, patience, and loyalty have carried me through the hardest days. You’ve believed in me, lifted me up, and reminded me why I love what I do.
“To my friends, family, and everyone who’s supported me along the way – I see you, and I’m so grateful for you. This isn’t just about being a finalist, it’s about resilience, passion, and not giving up when life throws everything at you.
“No matter what happens next, I’m so proud of how far I’ve come.” The awards highlight outstanding professionals and businesses across the UK hair and beauty sector, highlighting individuals who demonstrate exceptional skill, creativity, and client service.
Julie-Anne has been recognised for excellence within the nail therapist industry, commitment to professional growth, and dedication to serving the local community. Sophie Lux, CEO of the UK Hair and Beauty Awards, said: “Our awards have the highest national entry rate, we pride ourselves on our outstanding results process, which helps UK hair and beauty businesses determine the true best in UK results.
“The competition this year is tougher than ever, and each finalist demonstrates an exceptional level of talent and dedication.” Julie-Anne said in a post on her Instagram page, she was “still pinching myself” at the news.
She said: “Every set of nails, every appointment, every chat in the chair – it’s all led to this moment.” The post has been met with many messages of congratulations.
Did you know you can make Hull Live a preferred source of Hull news in Google, which will mean you get more of our breaking news, exclusives, and must-read stories straight away? Here’s more information about what this means and how to do it – you can also do it straight away by clicking here .


