AN ANDOVER woman’s salon has been named as the best in the south west at a national hair and beauty awards.

Carla Corte, who runs Hair by Carla in Winterbourne Dauntsey near Salisbury, won the honour at the English Hair and Beauty Awards.

The independent small business was named the winner of the south western regional salons of 2023 award.

Carla shared her excitement in winning the award and said it is an amazing achievement for her little salon.

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“I was voted by my lovely clients last year and I got so excited when I was contacted by the PR of the awards in February.

“The judges did look for all the aspects of the business, and what makes my business stand out from other businesses. I did put all my dedication, love and life into my dream.

“I believe in kindness and have created a salon that is welcoming, unique and organic.”

Carla, who opened her salon in September 2017, said it is the only certified vegan salon in the area.

“I believe in supporting local and using hair colours and aftercare that are not damaging to us and also to life in our beautiful planet.

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She works with Organic Colour Systems based in Lymington in the New Forest for the products, and Andover business SalonSustanability to recycle all her salon waste.

“My business also has Eco Salon certification and I do run it as green as I can,” Carla said.

“The judges also looked at what I did during Covid. I was a volunteer for the Royal Volunteer Service, helping the community the best way I could. I supported my clients via video calls helping them how to cut and deal with their hair. I invested in training and I also ran yoga sessions for small groups of friends and lovely clients via Zoom. I posted every day on my social media to keep the spirits up and to get people feel a bit more positive or having a little giggle.”

Carla added that her profession is one of “the most enjoyable in the world”.

“I love everything about it, from running my own website to doing the DIY. I live it with so much love and dedication.”

Carla’s current plan is to get another hairstylist who wants to develop skills and knowledge, using a better hair care range and join the green movement.