Guests were welcomed into a lush floral installation from the moment they arrived at Docks Off Fifth in Manhattan. Cascading blooms and greenery lined the staircase leading into the venue, setting the scene for the 2026 Beauty Guru Awards.
The event celebrated brands, innovators, creatives, and industry leaders shaping the future of beauty. The awards recognized achievements across categories including skincare, haircare, makeup, wellness, treatments, fragrance, clean beauty, sustainability, and innovation.
The evening began with remarks from Gurus Media founder and publisher Derek Warburton, who reflected on the values that continue to guide the organization.
“Truth, passion, authenticity,” Warburton said. “That is our mantra, that’s what we live by.”
Before introducing Baldwin, Warburton reflected on the importance of recognizing people for who they are beyond public perception. He also discussed Gurus’ expanding role in the wellness and women’s health space.
Taking the stage, Baldwin continued the evening’s focus on community, connection, and empowerment. “It is such a pleasure to be here tonight, celebrating a community built on creativity, innovation and connection,” Baldwin said. “Beauty is more than what we see on the surface. It is confidence, it is self-expression, it is wellness and at its best, it has the power to help people feel seen, empowered, and celebrated.”
Photo by The Knockturnal
The festivities began the evening before at Eliut Salon. It was here notables were spotted including Robyn Newmark, Billy McNamara of The Trouble with Billy, and Dr. David Smotrich of La Jolla IVF. Other luminaries included Lauren Capriola who served up her delightful sauces for guests from The Blonde Italian.
The awards ceremony drew a range of notable guests, including Sex and the City author Candace Bushnell, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Sutton Stracke, fashion designer Nicole Miller, actor Billy McNamara, and America’s Next Top Model judge Nole Marin.
