After receiving countless entries since the launch of our Braids and Brides contest, it was extremely difficult to narrow entries down to 10! From updos, chignons, braids, beautiful buns and finger waves, we certainly saw some beautiful work.

This group of 10 semifinalists not only earn major bragging rights, but they also receive incredible prizes, including a gift box packed with goodies (we’re not kidding, it’s PACKED) from some of our favorites—Ulta, Moroccanoiland Goldwell!

These pro beauty brands pulled out all the stops to gift this group with the goodies to help up their styling business and create polished, picture-perfect finishes.

But the semifinalists aren’t off the hook just yet—MODERN is challenging them to create braid-based special-occasion look by 11:59 p.m. CST on February 8. Entries will be judged by the MODERN SALON Artist Connective, including Amanda Jean Kimball (@amandajeank), Diana Giannini (@lzhouseofhair), Galyna Poczciwinski (@ufirami), Krystle Waivio (@krystlewaiviohair) and Saretta Bowerman (@hairbysaretta).

Congratulations to our semifinalists:

Trae Howard

Svitlana Vechera

Shelby Weatherholtz

Sara Ortega

Caidy Brasure

Ashley Leoncini

Anaa Khan

Natalie Thomas

Jessica Domoney

Melanie Sorrow

BUT THAT’S NOT ALL! You can still hang with these guys AND get the chance to win some of the amazing prizes they’re snagging by entering our Braids and Brides giveaway—the winners go home with jaw-dropping loot.