Matrix Uses its Imagination

Matrix's Imagination event held at JW Marriott Palm Springs Resort and Spa in Palm Desert, California.

The details: Matrix welcomed 1,600 attendees for education, inspiration and motivation to "Spread the Love!"

Spread the love: To kick off the event, the six winners of Matrix's Spread the Love competition were greeted by their mentors, Matrix Artistic Designers Nicholas French, Brian and Sandra Smith, Patrick McIvor, Daniel Roldan, Ammon Carver, Chrystofer Benson and Nick Stenson. Before their departure on their six-month tour across the nation, they received computers, cameras and phones to document their journey. They also received a blogging tutorial from MODERN's Executive Editor of Social Media and Video Alison Shipley. Shipley hosted blogger training workshops for the 100-plus Spread the Love salon owners and stylists, along with the winners.

General session: The first-day featured the brought-to-life 2010 NAHA submissions of Matrix Artistic Designers: The Smiths, French, McIvor, Roldan, Carver, Benson and Stenson. Matrix also announced the launch of two new sites: chairsofchange.com-a philanthropic initiative that recognizes and empowers stylists to contribute positive change in their communities and mymatrixfamily.com, Matrix's professional online community. Here, users will create profiles, unlock codes to earn new "badges," follow the Spread the Love winners and salons, as well as get education, techniques, product knowledge and business support.

Motivation: Dr. Lew Losoncy, motivational speaker, pumped up the crowd with his inspirational message on industry pride, plus the unveiling of his newest book ON, co-written by Matrix Vice President and General Manager Colin Walsh.

Party on: A "Digital Extravaganza" party allowed attendees to create their profiles on mymatrixfamily.com, and get a shot at unlocking several profile badges for a chance at winning great prizes. At the "Decade of Love" party, attendees wore 1960s gear for a night of laughter and music and were treated to a surprise private concert by Love Train artists The O'Jays!


MODERN's Executive Editor of Social Media and Video Alison Shipley with the six winners of the Spread the Love competition, at the Digital Extravaganza.


Nick Stenson's puppeteering act at Imagination had dancers swinging in the air, and the crowd cheering in response.


Shipley with Matrix's Vice President and General Manager Colin Walsh, who announced the launch of his book ON-A Brilliant Way to Live and Work, co-written by Dr. Lew Losoncy.


Matrix Artistic Designer Nicholas French on stage at the kick off of Imagination.


Matrix leaders and Imagination attendees "spread the love."