Winners of the 2024 Australian Small Business Champion Awards have been announced, having been chosen from thousands of finalists from across the country.
For some winners, this was the first year they had elected to enter the annual awards. While, it wasn’t the first time others had secured a spot on the prestigious shortlists.
Professional Beauty caught up with three of this year’s winning beauty businesses to learn why they entered and what it means to be recognised:
Beautee Bar, winner of the Brows & Lashes category
Owner: Tarnee Morris
www.beauteebar.com.au
Was 2024 the first year you chose to enter the Australian Small Business Champion Awards?
“Yes it was my first year entering into the Australian Small Business Awards. 2023 was my first year entering into the Local Small Business Awards (for Penrith) where we won the award for Outstanding Beauty Salon.”
Why was it important to you to enter these awards?
“I wanted to set myself a goal and to feel recognised for my hard work and dedication to my business and the beauty industry. It was an incredible experience!”
Do you believe clients are more likely to book with your business given your award win?
“I believe so. Clients will be impressed with the recognition we received as the award isn’t an easy thing to achieve. This is also judged and voted on by professionals. We definitely have received more eyes and clientele booking with us or showing interest since!”
Which professional brands do you use in your back bar and/or retail to clients?
“We use our very own brand Beautee Bar Store for all lash extension supplies and soon to be brow supplies. We use brands like Brow Code, Bronsun, Naomi, Thyua for our brow products!”
Bare Wolf, winner of the Small Business Champion Entrepreneur award
Owner: Dully Sayed; answers provided by Director: Georgina Makke
www.barewolf.com.au
Was 2024 the first year you chose to enter the Australian Small Business Champion Awards?
“2024 wasn’t our first year at the Australian Small Business Champion Awards. We’ve been active participants for the past five years, and we’ve consistently earned the finalist spot in the Beauty & Skincare category each year.
The year 2023 was particularly rewarding as we not only reached finalist status but also received a finalist position in the Growth Awards. Personally, I was honoured as a Finalist for the Young Small Business Champion Entrepreneur that same year. Our local efforts have been acknowledged as well; we were finalists in the Local Business Awards in 2019 and have achieved this status again in 2024.”
Why was it important to you to enter these awards?
“At BareWolf®, entering these awards goes beyond just competition – it’s about affirming our mission. BareWolf was founded by Dully Sayed in 2011 and it stands as a pioneering brand in the beauty and aesthetics sector, notable for thriving in a niche sector predominantly occupied by female focused clinics.
For us it isn’t just about recognition, it’s about recognising how Dully’s innovative ideas made BareWolf the first FOR MEN, BY MEN™ clinic in the world! Each time we are named finalists, it proves that our unique niche is gaining recognition and possibly making an impact in the industry.
Participating in these awards is important because it shows our team of male beauty therapists that their hard work is recognised and valued. This helps us keep our standards high and makes everyone feel proud to be part of what we’re doing. It really motivates the guys!”
Do you believe clients are more likely to book with your business given your award win?
“Yes, the award has really helped us stand out. We’ve seen more bookings from both new and returning clients this week. Our social media is alive too – people are curious and asking, “Are all your therapists male?”. It’s clear the award is drawing more attention to our unique brand.”
Which professional brands do you use in your back bar and/or retail to clients?
“At BareWolf, we trust Skinstitut for top quality products, and we also offer our own line of men’s skincare, hair care, and beard care essentials. All BareWolf products are Australian made, cruelty free, vegan, and made mainly from natural ingredients and they are easy to use for the on-the-go man.”
“Participating in these awards is important because it shows our team of male beauty therapists that their hard work is recognised and valued. This helps us keep our standards high and makes everyone feel proud to be part of what we’re doing. It really motivates the guys!”
Jessica Vegas Professional Hair & Makeup Artist, winner of the Makeup Artist category
Owner: Jessica Vegas
www.jessicavegas.com
Was 2024 the first year you chose to enter the Australian Small Business Champion Awards?
“While 2024 marked my debut in the Australian Small Business Champion Awards, I’ve previously been named a finalist in the Local Business Awards, Australian Beauty Industry Awards, and Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards. That acknowledgment fuelled my determination to aim higher and showcase the depth of my expertise in the broader small business landscape.”
Why was it important to you to enter these awards?
“As a makeup artist and business owner, I’m deeply committed to highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit within our industry. These awards serve as more than just a stage for individual achievements; they provide a powerful platform to showcase that we’re not just makeup artists, but savvy entrepreneurs as well. We’re not just about beauty, we’re about business too.”
Do you believe clients are more likely to book with your business given your award win?
“Absolutely. Winning this award is a testament not only to my skills as a makeup artist but also to the commitment and dedication I pour into my business. Clients see that and know they’re not just getting makeup—they’re choosing excellence from an award-winning team. Moreover, our recognition through this award enhances our credibility among fellow vendors and businesses, making them more inclined to recommend our services based on our demonstrated accomplishments and professionalism.”
Which professional brands do you use in your kit?
“In my online store and professional kit, I’ve carefully curated a selection of brands that reflect my commitment to quality and performance. For styling, the KYK Haircare range has consistently delivered innovation backed by exceptional results, complemented with haircare by the reliability and versatility of Paul Mitchell products.
However, I’m especially proud to introduce clients to my own brand, Pro by Jessica Vegas. From Synthetic Silk Eyelashes to Longwear Liquid Lipsticks and our Professional Makeup Brushes, each product embodies the culmination of years of expertise and passion. As a special touch, brides who choose to journey with us receive a full-size Pro by Jessica Vegas Lipstick in their touch up kit—a keepsake from their special day that seamlessly integrates into their daily beauty routine, serving as a lasting reminder of their unforgettable wedding experience. This personal touch fosters lasting relationships, transforming clients into loyal advocates of our brand and services.”
“These awards serve as more than just a stage for individual achievements; they provide a powerful platform to showcase that we’re not just makeup artists, but savvy entrepreneurs as well. We’re not just about beauty, we’re about business too.”
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