A "HIDDEN gem" salon and its owner are up for multiple national hair and beauty awards.

Hairdressers Industry, in Lowesmoor Wharf, Worcester, is a finalist for best salon at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2024.

Salon owner Michaela Williams is also a finalist for skin specialist of the year, beautician of the year, and best for brows of the year.

She said since the salon opened the business has gone from strength to strength priding itself on being an inclusive space with expert staff.

Miss Williams said: "I am a co-parenting mum of two young children under the age of six and started my own self-employed business just over two years ago the day after the last lockdown was lifted.

"Six months ago, I opened the salon, and in that time I have gone from just myself to having 11 specialists that work for the salon. 

"We are also a fully inclusive salon which allows clients to have their own safe space to look and feel their best, no matter what their age, background or lifestyle."

Miss Williams called the salon a hidden gem and said she was happy to be based in the area.

She said: "The salon is based in Lowesmoor Wharf, which is somewhat a forgotten part of Worcester,  and is a real hidden gem with the wow factor of a high end salon and interior design.

"It is nice to be here and to be contributing to bringing some life back to the area.

"We have a brilliant, and very hardworking team.

"I also run an academy from the salon after completing my teacher training to hopefully inspire others to enter the industry."

The salon offers a wide range of treatments and specialities and is looking to branch out to things such as tattoo removal and more skin treatments.

Miss Williams also shared some words of encouragement and inspiration to other mothers who are thinking of starting a business.

She said: "I think that being a mother to young children can often be seen as a barrier, and it can be really hard to find the motivation to try something new.

"It was such a good decision for me and I think that anyone who wants to do something similar should go for it.

"I am really grateful to be up for these awards and I am looking forward to the future."