With voting for The Northern Echo’s Best Hairdresser or Barber competition now well and truly open, your favourite salon needs your support!

Every day over the next ten days, we will be featuring one of our top ten finalists, chosen by our readers.

Today, The Northern Echo speaks to Nicola Hutchinson and Charlotte Stainsby-Manners, owners of Blossom and Crown, based in Shildon.

Blossom and Crown was established in 2020, and was opened after the first Covid lockdown and the closure of Elite Hair and Beauty, where Charlotte and Nicola met.

They say they owe their unmatchable skills from the training they received during their time at Elite, and hope they can grow hairdressers they can be proud of in the same way.

Nicola said: "Covid was a difficult time for everyone, but we turned the sad closure into a positive. We had to take the closure in our stride and renovated Blossom and Crown, making it the salon it is today.

"Four years down the line, we are proud employers to a great team. To us, team is everything, and watching each individual grow in their own way is an absolute privilege.”

Charlotte added: "So far we have trained three apprentices into incredible hair stylists: Faye, our extension specialist, completed her level three with Blossom and Crown and has worked along side us from the age of 14.

"She is known for her perfection and always being one step ahead with any new trends.

"Nicole completed her level two in salon and is close to finishing her level three. She is bringing new clients to the salon and building a great clientele.

"Her kind, gentle nature is reflected in the time and care she provides you with in salon.

"Indianna, our newest apprentice, has just completed her level one, and she’s renowned for her incredible head massage."

Upstairs in the beauty area, Beauty by Sarah offers all areas of beauty to an exceptional standard. Sienna at Lashes For Dais offers bespoke lashes from delicate natural lashes to fluffy and dramatic. There are also two nurses, Julie and Emma, that offer a wide range of aesthetics and personalised facials.

Charlotte and Nicola said: "It is an absolute honour to be nominated by our fabulous clients and it came as such a shock!

"We would like to thank everyone for their continued love and support over the past four years. We welcome clients through the door and everyone leaves as a friend and that is the best part of our job!"