Beautician named most creative member of profession

A beautician who worked in the West End on shows like Phantom of the Opera has been named the most creative member of her profession at the annual London Hair and Beauty awards, writes Rafi Benady.

Amanda Roberts, 48, of East Dulwich trained at the highly-regarded Delamar Academy of Make-up, before establishing her bridal and special occasion business in 2002.

She has been doing personal and professional hair and make-up since then for weddings, parties, photo shoots and red carpet events.

Before this she worked in the wigs, hair and make-up department on many West End shows, for The National Theatre, and on Andrew Lloyd Webber’s production of Phantom of the Opera.

One client described her as “very passionate with what she does and that’s really the key to a very top-quality service that’s worth your money spent”.

She started working for herself when she and her husband Matt had their first child.

She has also been a volunteer with Look Good Feel Better since 2014, an international cancer charity which helps boost the physical and emotional well-being of women, men and young adults undergoing cancer treatment.

The awards were presented by writer Zara Janjua and were held at The Millennium Gloucester Hotel in Kensington on October 27.

Ms Roberts said: “I am so shocked and delighted to have won this award.

“I am honoured to receive it and thankful to those who nominated me.”

“I was very surprised and delighted to win the Creative Hair & Make-up Artist of the Year award.

“I feel honoured to receive such a prestigious title and so thankful to those who voted for me.”

A spokeswoman for the London Hair and Beauty Awards 2019 said: “The winners reflect the creativity and talent that flows within the profession.

“These specialists inspire others when it comes to the big and competitive world of beauty.

“The Awards provided a platform to thank those that deliver high class services, making sure clients are left with the best of impressions.

“The hair and beauty professionals in London lead the way in providing innovative treatments and glamorous styling and are role models for the rest of the hair and beauty world.

“We would like to congratulate all finalists and winners for their amazing achievements.”

The awards also provided the opportunity to raise funds for their official charity partner, Make A Wish Foundation UK, who help those fighting life-threatening conditions.