A Basingstoke makeup artist has been named a regional finalist at The Wedding Industry Awards (TWIA) 2025.

Rachel Maslin is hoping to secure the top spot in the wedding makeup artist category in the south-central region and take the next step toward national recognition in the highly competitive wedding industry.

"I decided to enter the Wedding Industry Awards as a personal challenge, to step outside of my comfort zone," she said.

"I was drawn to the awards' commitment to a fair and transparent judging process, which ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. I'm absolutely thrilled to have been named a regional finalist. This recognition has already boosted my confidence."

Rachel MaslinRachel Maslin (Image: Anna Fairs Photography) READ MORE: Basingstoke winners at The Wedding Industry Awards 2024​

For Rachel, 2024 has already been a milestone year, with 34 weddings under her belt and another 10 to go before the year ends.

Her work has been featured in online wedding blogs and magazines, and she’s also secured coveted spots on the preferred supplier lists of several prestigious venues. Looking ahead, she sees the regional finals as a perfect way to cap off a successful year.

“Winning the regional awards would be such an incredible achievement,” said Rachel.

“I absolutely love my job—being part of my bride's special day and creating a look that makes them feel like the very best version of themselves. Recognition from TWIA would be a fabulous way to finish this year and start the next.”

Regardless of the outcome, Rachel remains grateful for the journey, thanking her brides for their support and extending well-wishes to her fellow finalists.

The regional finals, in November 2024, will see top wedding makeup artists competing for the title.

Those crowned regional winners will move on to the national finals in January 2025.

Rachel workingRachel working (Image: Katherine and Her Camera) A bridal makeup that Rachel didA bridal makeup that Rachel did (Image: Katherine and Her Camera) SEE ALSO: Leasehold sale could be a good news for Festival Place

Since its launch in 2011, TWIA has been dedicated to recognising excellence in the wedding industry.

Founder Damian Bailey said: "Our awards are unique as they are voted by recent wedding couples, and it’s not the total number of votes that companies receive that leads to success.

"Instead, we focus on the quality of the feedback they get from eligible couples, amongst other things. Larger companies and talented individuals compete on a level playing field, and the best wedding suppliers always rise to the top."