Tullow salon owner to represent Ireland at international hair awards

A Tullow hair salon is celebrating after its creative director was named an Irish finalist in one of the industry's most prestigious international competitions.

Samantha Byrne, creative director of Vanilla Hair Design, has been selected as an Irish finalist in the Editorial Visionary category of the Wella Trend Vision Awards 2026.

This September, Samantha will travel to London to represent Ireland at the awards, competing alongside hair artists from around the world.

The salon said the achievement reflected years of dedication and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries, and paid tribute to the clients who had supported the business along the way.

"Every client who has trusted us, supported us, and shared in our journey has played a part in this incredible milestone," the salon said in a statement.

In the run-up to the London final, Vanilla Hair Design said it would be taking supporters behind the scenes, from creative concepts and preparations through to competition day.

"Here's to representing Ireland with creativity, passion, and pride," the statement added.