Employer of the Year… I Still Can’t Quite Believe I’m Writing That.

If you’d told me a few weeks ago that I’d be writing this blog, I honestly wouldn’t have believed you. Because the truth is…

I didn’t even know I’d been nominated. So, when I heard my name announced as Employer of the Year, I was completely shocked - for me this means even more that i've been recognised by the group of people i'm aiming to help.

I’m not usually lost for words, but for once I genuinely didn’t know what to say.

I’ve spent the last few days reflecting on what this award really means to me, and I realised it isn’t just about being an employer. It’s about everything I’ve built over the last 15 years.

15 years ago, Tiger Lilli Beauty was just an idea.

6 years ago, I took on the responsibility of becoming an employer.

Neither journey has been straightforward, and if you’ve ever run a business, you’ll know there isn’t a handbook that tells you exactly what to do.

You learn, you adapt, you make mistakes. Then you get up the next morning and do it all again.

Its this insider knowledge that I want to share with students and my team - I want to give back, bring those around me up, to inspire and lead. Above all the single biggest lesson I have come to learn over the last 15 years is its those around you that make working in beauty the best 'job' in the world.

This Award Isn’t Just Mine

When I think about why I may have received this award, my mind doesn’t go to turnover, awards or social media.

It goes to people.

The work experience students who’ve walked through our doors, nervous about whether beauty was the right career for them. The newly qualified therapists who’ve messaged me asking for advice because they didn’t know who else to ask.

The college talks where I’ve had the opportunity to speak honestly about what it’s really like to start a beauty business—the highs, the challenges and everything in between.

I’ve always believed that if you’ve learnt something the hard way, you should share it so someone else doesn’t have to.

The beauty industry has given me so much over the years, and giving some of that back has never felt like an obligation. It’s something I genuinely love doing.

Business Looks Different Today - lets talk...

Running a salon in 2026 isn’t the same as it was when I first opened.

The economy has changed. Client habits have changed. Technology has changed. The industry has changed.

As business owners, we can’t stand still.

We’ve had to evolve, adapt and sometimes completely rethink the way we work.

That’s just part of running a modern business.

Maybe the biggest change of all affects every one, its how we communicate with each other - especially younger students. In a world where they can compare to others (sometimes negativity) its important to share IN PERSON what is realistic for them, that they can chase their dreams and a career is possible. Alongside that with the rise of online training courses getting a 'certificate' is easier than ever - but online courses don't offer then connection and mentorship meeting your trainer (me) does.

So with that in mind providing college talks, work experience and affordable training courses are key for local growth and support to the next generation of business owners - I want to be a mentor and every student I ever meet will know I am contactable whenever they need me for support.

I've gone a step further and kept my training course price the same for the last 5 years - yes its become 'less profitable' for myself but that's not the point I'm more affordable for the students.

And although it’s not always easy, I’m incredibly proud that we’ve continued to grow without losing sight of who we are.

We Might Be Slightly Unhinged…

With all of the seriousness of my business as a salon we aren't - If you’ve ever spent time in the salon or training academy, you’ll know we’re probably not what people expect.

We’re not the intimidating, whisper-quiet salon where everyone feels scared to say the wrong thing. We’re not overly formal. We’re definitely not perfect. Some days the conversations are completely random.

We’re probably slightly unhinged… but in the best possible way.

This isn't without thought, actually I want my business to be exactly like that, I want everyone that I meet to feel accepted to be who they are, I want every single person who walks through our doors to feel comfortable.

Whether you’re a nervous first-time client.

A student changing careers. Or someone who’s never felt like they “fit” in traditional salon environments.

You’re welcome here. Always. That said…

When it comes to treatments and education, it’s a completely different story.

Our standards are everything. Every treatment, every training course and every qualification is delivered with professionalism, care and attention to detail.

You can have a relaxed atmosphere without lowering your standards.

In fact, I think that’s exactly what modern beauty should look like.

Relationships Matter More Than Transactions

One of the things I’m proudest of is the relationships we’ve built.

Many of our clients have been with us for years.

We’ve watched people get married, have babies, change careers and celebrate huge milestones.

Our students don’t just finish a course and disappear.

Many still message me months—or even years—later to share their successes, ask for advice or simply let me know how they’re getting on.

That’s the kind of training academy and salon I’ve always wanted to create.

A place where support doesn’t end when the treatment finishes or the certificate is handed over.

Changing What It Means to Work in Beauty

I also hope we’re helping to change perceptions of the beauty industry.

Working in beauty isn’t “just doing nails.”

It isn’t “just doing facials.”

It’s running businesses.

Creating employment.

Building confidence.

Supporting mental wellbeing.

Learning constantly.

Changing lives in ways that often go unnoticed.

Beauty is an incredibly skilled profession, and I’m passionate about showing people just how many opportunities it can create.

Why My Training Prices Haven’t Changed

One thing many people don’t realise is that I haven’t increased my training course prices in 5 years. For me, making high-quality education accessible has always mattered more than maximising profit.

The support my students receive before, during and long after their course is one of the things I’m most proud of.

I’d rather see someone build a successful business because they had the right support than simply earn a little more from the course itself.

That’s always been my priority.

Thank You

Finally, thank you.

To every client who’s trusted us.

To every student who’s chosen to train with us.

To everyone who’s recommended us, shared a post, left a review or simply believed in what we’re trying to build.

This award may have my name on it, but it reflects the community around Tiger Lilli Beauty.

I’m still incredibly honoured.

Still slightly in shock.

And more motivated than ever to keep doing what I love.

Here’s to the next chapter.

Emily & Tiger Lilli Team x