A PEEBLES beautician has won two major awards.

Nicola Couperthwaite, who owns At First Sight Beauty in Peebles, landed first place for Beauty Salon of the Year and for Beauty Therapist of the Year in the British Hair and Beauty Awards in London.

Since launching the salon in February 2013, the 27-year-old’s business has gone from strength to strength.

Nicola said: “I’m over the moon that I’ve won two awards in the highly respected British Hair & Beauty Awards. 

“I work really hard and it’s just myself that runs both sides of the business. I feel like my hard work and determination has been recognised! 

“I’m incredibly passionate about my salon, my career and everything beauty, I do believe I give it my all. I’m totally chuffed to win these awards, it’s made every struggle worth it and made all the good days even better!”

On the back of a busy few weeks at the salon, Nicola has also launched a Beauty Training Academy, offering sessions on a one-to-one basis for those who want to learn about hair and beauty, but don't want to travel into cities to recieve it.

She added: "My courses have proven to be really popular, which is fantastic as it proves that the Borders can stand up against the cities and offer the same if not better services. I'm urging for people to shop and do business locally in every aspect as it will dramatically improve our area for all." 

In addition to her business, Nicola has also shared her secrets as a beauty expert, writing a series of online articles for the Huffington Post, which has attracted interest from several woman’s magazines.

For more information, visit: www.atfirstsightbeautyandacademy.com or call 07563421353.