A WOMAN from Llandudno was crowned a winner at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2023.

Poppy Thomas, who runs Protox Aesthetics Ltd in Llandudno, won the Best Business Brand in Wales award at the ceremony in Birmingham on Saturday (April 22).

Ms Thomas set up Protox five years ago, and said she had worked ‘so hard’ to get the business to where it is today.

Poppy, who is the mother of twins, credited her family’s support for the success, saying the award meant ‘so much’ to her.

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“I literally have the worst social anxiety - I was dreading coming to an event this big but forced myself to come,” said Poppy.

“I’m constantly doubting myself, second questioning myself and always worrying about what other people think of me, what I look like and what I do.

“It’s hard being a woman in business, and raising a young family I work so hard - nights like last night puts things into perspective.

“Still cannot believe my business brand won at such a huge event, cannot believe it.

“Massive respect for all women in business, being a mum is so hard but you’ve got to keep going believe in yourself and make a better life for yourself and your babies.

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“I have a supportive family and partner who always have my back no matter what - I hope the twins will be proud of me one day!”

Due to the rapid growth of the company since the pandemic, Poppy has trademarked the brand and logo.

Sadly, the award was not brought to Poppy’s table at the ceremony, for which she received an apology from the organisers, who subsequently sent a picture of the award until a posted one arrives.

Ms Thomas also thanked multiple Conwy beauty businesses for helping her get ready for the day, including Deganwy-based Leanne Liepins Hair, which claimed two awards at the same ceremony.

Poppy added: “Thank you all that follow my business and journey on social media and support me trusting me to deliver your aesthetic enhancements.

“Thank you to Lauren, my social media manager, who helps support me and my business.”