From Submission to Celebration: What Comes Next for Hairbrained Awards Entrants

For hairdressers, the Hairbrained Awards aren’t just an event—they’re a movement. This globally renowned competition has pushed the boundaries of creativity and elevated artistry in our industry. Now that the entry period is over, you might be feeling a mix of relief, excitement, and maybe even a touch of impatience as we wait for March’s big reveal.

But this isn’t just downtime—it’s your opportunity to reflect, prepare, and stay inspired. Whether you’re a participant, a hopeful nominee, or simply someone who admires the incredible talent on display, this is the perfect moment to focus on what comes next. Let’s dive into how you can make the most of this in-between time.

Reflect and Recharge

First, take a moment to reflect on your journey leading up to the submission. Creating video content that aligns with Hairbrained’s standards is no small feat. Whether it was your first submission or you’re a seasoned participant, give yourself credit for putting yourself and your work out there. This is an achievement in itself.

Next, take some time to recharge. The creative process can be exhausting, and with the holidays and the new year just behind us, now is the perfect time to refuel your energy. Great work comes from a clear and rested mind, so prioritize self-care before diving into your next big project.

Engage with the Hairbrained Community

The Hairbrained Awards may be a competition, but at its heart, it’s about fostering creativity and community. Use this time to connect with your peers. Engage with other hairdressers on the Hairbrained platforms, comment on their work, and celebrate the talent that surrounds you. This is also an excellent opportunity to learn from others—see what resonates with you and sparks your curiosity.

Not a part of the Hairbrained community yet? There’s no better time to dive in. You’ll find endless inspiration and the chance to build relationships with like-minded artists.

Study the Categories and Past Winners

If you’ve submitted your work, congratulations! Now is the time to review the categories and revisit the content of past winners. Ask yourself:

  • What elements made their work stand out?

  • How did they approach storytelling in their videos?

  • What technical skills were on display?

This isn’t about copying—it’s about understanding the level of excellence that Hairbrained celebrates and finding ways to push your own boundaries in future projects. Use this as an opportunity to refine your vision and set new goals.

Prepare for the Awards Show

The Hairbrained Awards Show in March is a celebration of artistry, innovation, and the community’s shared passion for hairdressing. Whether you’re attending in person or tuning in online, make sure you’re ready to fully experience the event. Here are a few ways to prepare:

  • Mark Your Calendar: Block off time for the Awards Show - MARCH 23, 2025 - so you can watch or attend without distractions.

  • Network Strategically: The Awards Show is a fantastic networking opportunity. If you’re attending, consider reaching out to peers or mentors you admire to set up a meeting or simply introduce yourself.

  • Document the Experience: Plan to capture the event for your own social media or personal archive. Whether you’re celebrating your nomination or enjoying the creativity on display, documenting your experience helps others experience a bit of the community.



Plan Your Next Creative Move

For those who didn’t submit this year, don’t let that stop you from participating in the spirit of the Awards. Start planning now for next year. Use this time to:

  • Hone your skills with classes, workshops, or mentorship.

  • Build a creative team if you didn’t have one.

  • Map out a content calendar to develop ideas, film, and edit without last-minute stress.

If you did submit, consider what your next creative move will be. What’s the next project that excites you? How can you use the lessons learned during this year’s submission process to evolve your work?

Stay Inspired

Finally, keep your creativity alive by staying inspired. Watch films, attend art exhibits, explore fashion, or dive into other creative disciplines. Inspiration often comes from unexpected places, and as hairdressers, our artistry is influenced by everything around us.

March will be here before you know it, and with it, the celebration of the Hairbrained Awards. Whether you’re an entrant, a spectator, or a future participant, this is your time to shine, grow, and elevate your craft. The hairdressing world is watching, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table—now and in the future.

We’ll see you in March!

Annie | The Hair Nerds

Hi! I’m Annie (she/they), Lead Instructor for @scissorandmoth_social, Creative Director for @thehairnerds and host of #DearCosmoBabies podcast.

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