2025 Nail Excellence Awards™️

Prepare for an unforgettable experience at the Nail Excellence Awards in Hanover, Maryland, on October 4, 2025. As the most glamorous event in the nail industry, this gathering is more than a celebration — it’s an uplifting experience that will ignite creativity, restore your spirit, and inspire your journey in the nail industry and beyond. Every moment is designed to connect you with the heart of our craft while celebrating wellness, artistry and community.

Nail & Wellness Expo (9 AM - 1 PM)

The Nail & Wellness Expo offers a unique blend of education, shopping, and self-care to inspire and empower. Attendees will enjoy live demonstrations by industry experts who showcase everything from intricate nail art to advanced product application techniques, keeping you ahead of the latest trends. The expo also features a wide array of self-care products, nail supplies, fashion items, and more, providing the perfect opportunity to refresh your toolkit and spark creativity. Business resources are available to connect you with financial institutions, CPAs, and professional advisors committed to helping you take your business to the next level.

Red Carpet & VIP Experiences (6 PM - 8 PM)

As the evening unfolds, the red carpet sets the stage for a night of glamour and prestige. Attendees will walk the red carpet, capture memorable photos, and enjoy live mini-interviews where inspiring stories of resilience and success are shared. Throughout this time, VIP ticket holders will be treated to an elevated menu featuring exquisite bites and bespoke cocktails, crafted to provide a more exclusive and refined tasting experience. The atmosphere is vibrant and full of anticipation as live music sets a celebratory tone for the night ahead.

Gala Cocktail Hour (7 PM - 8 PM)

Before the awards ceremony begins, all attendees can enjoy a social and lively cocktail hour. This gathering offers an opportunity to mingle with fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and build valuable industry connections. With a curated selection of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, this hour sets the perfect tone for an unforgettable evening.

The Gala (8 PM)

The highlight of the event, the gala, will celebrate excellence in the nail industry. This formal ceremony will honor outstanding professionals and businesses, recognizing their achievements and contributions. Guests will enjoy live entertainment, inspiring speeches, and the presentation of prestigious awards. The night is a tribute to artistry, innovation, and the future of nail excellence.

You won’t just leave with memories—you’ll leave with motivation. This event can change your life through the inspiration, empowerment, and community you will experience throughout the day and night.

Get your tickets today and be part of a night that will stay with you long after the last award is given.

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Humanitarian of the Year

This category honors individuals or organizations within the nail industry that are making a positive impact, showcasing kindness, generosity, and community commitment.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Most fields are optional, but missing details may affect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Rookie of the Year

This category celebrates fresh talent, honoring new nail artists who started their journey May 2024 and later. Does NOT need to be licensed.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Press On Gel Nails

This category honors the best Press-on gel nails. Whole nails that are applied using a gel glue system, showcasing innovation, flexibility, durability, and professional-quality craftsmanship.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Press-On Nail Artist

This category honors the Best Press-On Nail Artist who excels in creativity, precision, durability, and innovation in design.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Nail School of the Year

This award honors the Best Nail School, recognized for excellence in education, training, and preparing future professionals.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may affect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Character Nail Art

This category honors the best character nail art, showcasing creativity in bringing pop culture characters to life through design.

**The nominees information below is required for entry **

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Trending Nail Artist

This category honors the Best Trending Nail Artist, shaping the future of nail design through innovation and influence.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Creative Nail Art

This category honors the most creative nail art, showcasing unique, innovative designs that push artistic boundaries.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Pedicurist of the Year

This category honors the Best Pedicurist, showcasing exceptional skill, creativity, and luxurious, innovative pedicure services.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Abstract Nail Art

This category honors the best abstract nail art, showcasing creativity, bold patterns, and innovative designs that push boundaries.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best 3D Nail Art

This category celebrates the best 3D nail art, showcasing intricate, dimensional designs that transform nails into sculptures.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Nail Supplier of the Year

This category honors the top nail supplier, known for quality products, excellent service, and industry innovation.

** The nominees information below is required for entry. The Nominee is the Supply Company. ** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may affect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Gel Polish Brand

This category honors the Best Gel Polish Brand, known for superior quality, durability, vibrant color, and innovation.

**The nominees information below is required for entry. The Polish Brand is the nominee** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Salon Suites

This category honors Salon Suites with exceptional facilities, supportive environments, and innovative spaces that foster growth and quality service.

** The nominees information below is required for entry. The Salon Suites is the nominee. **

*Images must be clear with good lighting.

Best Gel Application

This category honors nail artists with flawless gel application. Hard or Soft Gel, showcasing skill, precision, and long lasting, beautiful results.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Acrylic Application

This category honors exceptional acrylic nail enhancements, showcasing skill, precision, durability, and flawless technique in application.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Nail Care

This category honors exceptional nail care, focusing on nail health, strength, hygiene, and a professional experience.

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Best Russian Manicure

This category recognizes excellence in Russian manicures, focusing on precision, skill, and flawless results in cuticle work

**The nominees information below is required for entry** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may effect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Nail Tech of the Year

This category honors a nail technician with exceptional skill, creativity, professionalism, client care, and industry leadership.

** The nominees information below is required for entry. ** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may affect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting. Nominee ONLY in image (Headshot or full body).

Salon of the Year

This category honors a nail salon excelling in service, customer care, atmosphere, and industry leadership.

** The nominees information below is required for entry. The nominee is the Salon, not the owner(s). ** Complete info helps the nominee stand out! Many fields are optional, but missing details may affect judging.

*Images must be clear with good lighting.