Heybridge mum is finalist for top UK home salon award

Faye Cook, who runs The Hair Garden from her home in Heybridge, has built a loyal client base drawn to her reputation for creative cutting, colour work and friendly, personalised service.

With 15 years’ experience in the industry, Ms Cook is celebrating after being shortlisted as a finalist for Best Home Salon of the year at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2026.

“I am incredibly honoured and thrilled to be recognised as a finalist,” she said. “Being named a finalist means so much to me, both personally and professionally.

“As a mum of three young children, a wife, and a keen gardener, life is wonderfully busy, so this recognition feels incredibly special. Building and growing my business alongside family life has taken passion, resilience, and a lot of hard work, and to see that journey acknowledged in this way is something I’m truly proud of.”

Owner - Faye Cook is 'truly proud' of the acknowledgement of her business after years of hard work (Image: Faye Cook, The Hair Garden)

Salon - The Hair Garden has been shortlisted as a finalist for Best Home Salon of the Year at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2026 (Image: Faye Cook, The Hair Garden)

The UK Hair and Beauty Awards are designed to shine a spotlight on outstanding professionals and businesses across the country, championing those who combine technical excellence with strong client care.

Organisers say the competition is fiercer than ever this year, with a record number of entries and a robust judging process to identify the best of the best in each category.

“Our awards have the highest national entry rate,” said the awards’ chief executive, Sophie Lux.

“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.”

Competition - The Hair Garden was shortlisted as a finalist amid competition which was 'tougher than ever' (Image: Faye Cook, The Hair Garden)

For Ms Cook, the recognition feels especially meaningful.

“It’s a reflection not only of the business I’ve created, but also of the values, care, and dedication that sit behind everything I do,” she said.

The finals of the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2026 will take place in August at Manchester’s O2 Arena.

For more, visit @Faye_at_the_hair_garden on Instagram or The Hair Garden on Facebook.