Modern Proview: What Do You Expect from a Trade Show?

If you’re looking for a little inspiration, education or great deals on products, you’re in luck—it’s show season! Beauty trade shows are great avenues for networking and trend spotting. We asked MODERN SALON’s Proview Panel what they expect and need from a trade show. Here’s what they said:

• 87 percent of MODERN SALON’S Proview Panel attends trade shows specifically to see new trends in products and styles.
• 72 percent of MODERN SALON’S Proview Panel will attend a major beauty trade show in 2011.

“I go to trade shows to keep myself updated with the latest techniques and products, and to recharge my battery behind the chair. I expect to learn new techniques in cutting, coloring and styling, and hear about the latest advances in our industry. I also look for business classes to learn more about running my salon and managing my stylists.”

—Erica Jo “EJ” Wilson
owner of EJ-588 Hair Studio Sonoma, California

“I love to be inspired by new ideas and trends! I also like to see the latest in salon and business management software as well as the newest coloring, cutting, and styling tools. It’s great if I have a chance to try the tools to see how they would work for me in the salon.”

—Debora Routhe
Redken Artist at Parks Salon Laguna Niguel, California

“I look for what is the latest in trends and technology. A trade show is a perfect place to see a variety of manufacturers in close proximity and to get a feel for which direction the industry is heading. As a salon owner, it gives me a perfect opportunity to network with other owners on the business side of our world and ways to further explore the business of beauty for months after!”

—Mitchell Eubanks
owner of The Mitchell Wade Salon Oviedo, Florida

“Manufacturers should be demonstrating products and equipment at their booths—with the opportunity for me to try it right there. I would also like to meet the distributors, so I know who I’m buying from—it forms a level of trust. I also look for better discounts on products. Something I’d like to see more of are prize drawings from the manufacturers throughout the show.”

—Amy Proctor
stylist at Shear Attitude Salon, Dixon, California

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MODERN’s Proview section is compiled by Associate Editor, Lauren Salapatek at lsalapatek@vancepublishing.com.