Here’s everything you need to know about entering the Canadian Hairstylist of the Year Awards.

(You are entering the most prestigious professional beauty competition, aren’t you? If you’re not sure, here’s some big reasons why you need to do it.)

Find out how easy it can be to enter below.

1. Read the rules.

To find out which categories you want to enter, and learn more about specific category requirements, download the entry form and official rules here.

This year, thanks to new rules and regulations, there are more team collaborations, which means added recognition.

-Creative work may now be shared by entrants in Canadian Colourist and provincial categories. (This is in addition to the existing rule, where creative work can already be shared between Canadian Salon Team, Makeup Artist and Canadian Nail Artist categories.)

-Creative work entered in Canadian Nail Artist, Makeup Artist and Canadian Colourist may now be shared by entries in Canadian Salon Team, Canadian Hairstylist, Elite Master Hairstylist and Master Colourist categories.

2. Get inspired.

Want to know what’s been done? Check out our Contessa gallery of past winners’ work.

You can also visit our collections or Salon Magazine Community for photo inspiration.

3. Set up a shoot.

First you’ll need a good photographer. Don’t worry—we have a list for you to choose from!

The key to a successful photo shoot is proper planning. Follow our photoshoot tips to help you create your winning collection. From storyboarding your looks, to budgeting, to picking your team, we’ve got you covered.

P.S. Don’t forget to bring your model release form to set. It’s included in the entry form, which you can download here.

4. Submit your entry on time.

The entry deadline for this year’s competition is August 1, 2014.

If you submit your entry online before July 25, 2014 you’ll receive a 15% discount on your entry fee! Learn more here.

You can also mail in your entries to our office. Just make sure they are post-marked and in the mail by August 1, 2014. Click here for CD labels and forms.

Still have questions? Check out our Contessa FAQ section. If you need more guidance, email [email protected]

P.S. Don’t forget to send in your headshot! (Yes, you need one.)

5. Wait.

We know, we know—waiting is the worst. However, by mid-September we’ll be sharing who the semi-finalists are in the competition. If you sign up for our newsletter, you’ll be the first to know who has made the cut!

Good luck!

Photo: Contessa 25 Master Colourist Finalist Timothy Switzer