31st Annual Contessa Awards Recognizes Canada’s Beauty Talent
Canada’s Beauty Talent Put In the Spotlight at the Contessa Canadian Hairstylist of the Year Awards
The 31st Annual Contessa Canadian Hairstylist of The Year Awards took place on Sunday November 10, 2019 at the Westin Harbour Castle Conference Center in Toronto, Ontario. What are the Contessas? The award show was founded in 1988 and is Canada’s longest-running and most prestigious professional beauty competition in the salon industry. The Contessa Awards’ entries are judged by a panel of independent judges and industry experts on originality, creativity, technical execution and on-trend appeal. Other factors such as photography, makeup, and wardrobe are also considered.
The Contessas aim to highlight, promote, and recognize Canada’s premier professional beauty talent. Uniting the industry from coast to coast, the awards present an opportunity for beauty professionals to share their knowledge, inspiration and passion for their profession. 24 awards to the biggest names in Canadian and international beauty were handed out this year.
Tracy Newton from Aveda Institute Toronto took home the Canadian Hairstylist of the Year award. As a past Contessa winner, she upped her game this year with an edgy collection of textured blonde cuts and styles.
Newcomer Maggie Semaan from Haus of Rtists, Quebec took home the top colour prize: Canadian Colourist of the Year. Her short, textured cuts featured intricately placed slices of bold neon and pastel shades. It’s been noted that she’s definitely one of the top hairstylists to watch.
Hairstylists aren’t the only winners at the Contessa’s – Abie Hagerty, from facesbyabie in Fingal Ontario, won Makeup Artist of the Year. Makeup is a key component of all Contessa collections as it often makes or breaks an entire photoshoot. Hagerty’s dramatic lines, pops of bold colours and hints of metallic hues makes her stand out from the competition.
Want to relive the night? Watch the Contessa 2020 Webcast to see the stunning Canadian hairstyling talent for yourself.