
Bumble and bumble Honors Its Heritage While Inspiring the Next Generation
At its core, Bumble and bumble is about giving people the tools, the confidence, and the freedom to express themselves through hair.
The Elaine Sterling Institute (ESI) is thrilled to announce its recognition as the 2024 School of the Year by the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) Golden School Awards.

Elaine Sterling with the AACS 2024 School of the Year award
photo courtesy of The Elaine Sterling Institute
The Elaine Sterling Institute (ESI) is thrilled to announce its recognition as the 2024 School of the Year by the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) Golden School Awards. This prestigious honor reflects ESI’s dedication to excellence in education, innovation in the beauty and wellness industry, and commitment to fostering the next generation of beauty professionals.
The AACS Golden School Award spotlights institutions in the U.S. that exhibit outstanding quality, dedication to student success, and strong engagement with both industry and community. Winning the School of the Year award demonstrates ESI's focus on providing top-notch education, cultivating practical skills, and nurturing professional growth for its students. As a CIDESCO international recognized institution, ESI delivers a globally recognized standard of education that prepares students for successful careers in the beauty industry worldwide.
In addition to its comprehensive Barbering, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Care, and Massage Therapy programs, ESI partners with leading industry brands such as Makeup Forever, Elaine Sterling Skincare, Glo2Facial, HydraFacial, Redken, L'Oréal, and OPI. These partnerships allow students hands-on experience with the latest products and techniques, enhancing their preparation for real-world application. ESI also offers instructor programs to develop future educators and industry leaders, demonstrating a commitment to professional growth at all stages.
"This award is a testament to our passionate instructors, dedicated staff, and our talented students who embody the excellence we strive for every day at ESI," said Asha Sterling, COO of Elaine Sterling Institute. “We are honored to receive this recognition and are inspired to continue shaping the future of beauty and wellness education.”
Since its founding, the Elaine Sterling Institute has been committed to blending rigorous academics with hands-on experience in a supportive environment. With cutting-edge programs and affiliations with renowned brands, ESI equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in the ever-evolving beauty industry.
Elaine Sterling Institute remains dedicated to its mission of empowering students through innovative education and community involvement. Earlier this year, ESI students engaged with the community through charitable events, such as partnering with Magenta Momz, komen for the cure, Teal to Heal, these philanthropic initiatives prepares students for professional excellence but also emphasizes the importance of giving back.

At its core, Bumble and bumble is about giving people the tools, the confidence, and the freedom to express themselves through hair.

Premiere Show Group has announced IN FOCUS, the creative campaign behind the Premiere 2027 Show Tour, developed in collaboration with award-winning Ashlee Norman Hair & Team.

Next stop, Portugal! These winners will represent North America at the Wella Destination Event in the Global TrendVision Awards.

Stylists Yene Damtew and Jamal Edmonds launch Coil Event, a textured hair event for working stylists with hands-on education, live demonstrations, industry conversation, and networking.

Powered by mya, the zero-commission matchmaking tool connects clients with suite owners, setting a new tech benchmark in the salon suite industry.

A reimagined Press Conference and Official Show Launch will feature the artistry and creative direction of the Chrystofer Benson Artist Team, an exclusive first look at America’s Beauty Show 2027, and an invitation to EXPERIENCE the PULSE - The Heartbeat of the Professional Beauty Industry.
Maya Smith, CEO, Founder and Creative Director of haircare brand The Doux, sits down with Nicole to chat about the brand's new Roblox game, My Salon Empire, inspired by salon entrepreneurship and celebrating all hair textures.

This global competition celebrates the artistry, energy, and creative PULSE of the professional beauty community.

Sofia Vergara, Lucy Hale, Alison Brie, John Salley, Brian Austin Green and more honored the best achievements in Science Behind Beauty, Health & Wellness at this glittering event.

Stress was the factor respondents blamed most often when their skin worsened, cited by 54%, followed by diet at 37% and hormones at 35%.

This year’s awards centered around the Monochromatic trend, which is rooted in minimalism and intentional by design.
Haircare brand The Doux has launched “My Salon Empire,” a free-to-play salon management game on Roblox, helping the next generation celebrate the diversity of textured hair and explore salon entrepreneurship.

The show reported 30% attendance growth. It felt that way. This event for the southwest professional beauty community had heart, spice, and something for everyone.

Wella artists presented the Monochromatic trend movement, introduced new Pure Perfection color and Sebastian styling innovations, while the Wella team created interactive fun throughout Wella Studio in Los Angeles.

Dominique LyVar, an influential educator and artist, is remembered by those who loved him for his significant impact on the industry and contributions to the community.

Known for his buttery blondes and a technique for highlighting hair with more precision that he called chunking, Brad Johns died on August 27. His friend and fellow colorist, David Stanko, shares thoughts on his talented colleague and close friend.

As technology evolves at an accelerated rate, you want to make sure you have the best in your business toolkit to help you grow sales, motivate your team, communicate with your current and future clientele, and streamline your managerial tasks. The 2026 SALON TODAY Technology Solutions Guide is designed to help you navigate today's growing landscape of salon and spa technology. In this guide, you'll find a curated look at more than 50 of the latest software platforms, digital solutions, and innovative features to help you compare options and identify the best fit for your business.