Preston eyelash stylist wins first place in National Hair and Beauty Awards

A Preston eyelash stylist has won first place in the National Hair and Beauty Awards 2024.

Modesta Kanapinskienė, 29, won ‘Lash Stylist of the Year,’ coming first place out of 50 people from around the UK.

Modesta works from home in her own studio in Ribbleton, providing eyelash treatments, henna eyebrows and lash and brow lamination.

She said: “I couldn’t get tickets to the event so I was watching the announcements on a live stream at home.

“I didn’t think I had a chance, I was so nervous when they were announcing all the names.

“When they read mine out it was unbelievable, I couldn’t stop shaking and crying.

“It was amazing. I received so many messages and support from my clients and friends.”

Modesta couldn't attend the event, which was in Birmingham, but watched from a livestream — Modesta couldn’t attend the event, which was in Birmingham, but watched from a livestream

Modesta moved to Preston 13 years ago, from Lithuania. She started her eyelash business in a small flat in the town centre but her new studio in Ribbleton is much bigger.

She has always been interested in beauty since the age of 12, when she used to go to the hairdressers and watch the beauticians.

“It’s been a dream since I was a child. My dad used to take me to the hairdressers and I would say to him, ‘one day you’ll see me in there’.

“It doesn’t matter where you are from. If you have a dream, you can work hard and make it come true.”

Modesta has just started to provide training courses for aspiring technicians, teaching theory, photography and skills.

She wants to be able to share her knowledge and help others succeed.

Alongside the National Hair and Beauty Awards, Modesta has been nominated for the Beauty and Aesthetic Awards which relies on reviews and recommendations from clients.

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