Christopher Laird, co-owner of salon November Collective in Livingston, near Edinburgh, has been shortlisted for one of hairdressing’s most exciting awards.
Christopher, 24, is up for the One To Watch title at Creative Head’s The It List, a competition open to stylists under 30 from across the UK.
Presented by leading industry magazine Creative HEAD and exclusively sponsored by global hair brand ghd, The It List, now in its 13th year, provides an unparalleled platform for young hairdressers to shine, with six categories recognising hairdressing’s new stars of the future.
Entering required the submission of a detailed dossier outlining Christopher’s career story to date, along with an image gallery showcasing his strongest work. As one of five finalists in his category, he’ll now attend the Grand Final on Monday 5th September at London’s world-renowned Tate Modern, where he’ll compete for the coveted trophy.
Winners also receive an exclusive experience and gift from sponsor ghd, plus 12 months of profile-boosting coverage across the Creative HEAD print, digital and event platforms.
Christopher opened November Collective, along with co-owner Emma-Louise Cantwell, less than a year ago at the age of just 23.
Having worked as an educator for some of hairdressing’s biggest brands, as well as styling for celebrities, opening a salon was a natural progression and the duo have created an inclusive, creative space specialising in glamorous, wearable hair and professional beauty treatments.
‘Making the It List finals is a dream come true!’ says Christopher. “I faced a lot of criticism in my early career and it feels as though I’m finally being taken seriously.
“I’ve worked really hard to get to this point in my life and to have that recognised by a brand as respected as Creative Head means the world. I’d love to bring the trophy home to Edinburgh but just to be shortlisted is a huge honour.”