THE Lacquer Lounge is the winner of Chard and Ilminster News' Beauty Therapist of the Year 2024, and we caught up with its owner as the business celebrates its first birthday.

The Lacquer Lounge, in Crewkerne's George Shopping Centre, opened in October 2023 and has been booked solidly ever since due to the team's impressive skills.

Owner Chloe Taylor, 26, from Thorncombe, started The Lacquer Lounge from her mum's living room while she worked full-time in the sales office of Numatic in Chard.

When clients started requesting appointments during the day, Chloe knew it was time to give up her full-time job and "bite the bullet".

Chloe said: "I put all of my money into opening a salon and it is the best thing I've ever done. We've been so busy since the day we opened."

The salon has also won national recognition and was named the Best Nail Salon In The UK at the prestigious Hair and Beauty Awards in June.

Speaking about being named Chard and Ilminster News' Beauty Therapist of the Year, Chloe said: "I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who voted for me.

"With only being in business for one year, I have been so overwhelmed with the love and support I’ve received from clients, friends, family and my fellow shopping centre neighbours. 

"It gives me great joy to receive this award and I would like to congratulate all runners-up and all local beauticians, as their hard work and determination for their business and success doesn’t go unnoticed. Keep smashing it! 

"As a thank you for your continued business and support in keeping my small business thriving, I’d like to invite you all to our salon's first birthday party on Saturday, October 5 2024, from noon to 3pm.

"There will be drinks, nibbles, raffles, discounted treatments and lots of great socials at our party. This is also a great opportunity to meet the team and book for your luxury downtime with us. We can’t wait to see you!"