Pro Beauty Pulse: A Monthly View of Industry Confidence
The Professional Beauty Association and Pivot Point team up to develop an ongoing study that measures the confidence of salon owners, stylists, school owners, and students.
by Stacey Soble
NEW OPI GM Meets Local Beauty Trade Press at OPI-Hosted Luncheon
OPI hosted a luncheon to introduce Mary van Praag, OPI’s new General Manager, to Los Angeles beauty editors.
February 7, 2014
2 min to read
Mary Van Praag
Mary van Praag, OPI’s new General Manager, was introduced to local professional trade beauty editors at an intimate luncheon on January 21 at Bistro Gardens in Studio City, CA. Joining OPI in January 2014, van Praag most recently served as General Manager of Coty Canada Inc., where she is credited with transformational leadership.
Introducing van Praag at the luncheon, Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Artistic Director and Executive Vice President, said, “As a woman, I’m delighted to know that OPI will now be headed by a woman. I’d like to welcome Mary to the OPI family. We’re really excited that she is going to be taking OPI to the next level but what that is going to be none of us can know but it’s probably going to have something to do with these little hand held devices.”
Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, Mary van Praag and George Schaeffer
George Schaeffer shared details of his new role with the company. Schaeffer recently stepped down from his position as CEO but is still working with OPI's management team
“I’m retired and this is a scary word. It has been a great run, these past 33 years. I have a new title which is Strategic Board Advisor. Now, I don’t know what Board they mean but I’m happy to advise,” said Schaeffer.” When I started OPI, I had this idea of developing a brand because I think the essence of anything you do today is to make a name. Now, I’m going to brag a little bit but when I was at the SAG (Screen Actors Guild) awards, there was conversation at my table about what everyone did and when I mentioned OPI, eyes opened and hands went up. Everyone knows OPI.
I think Mary is going to be an incredible person, to steer the ship as the new captain. She did a great job in Canada and I have all the confidence in the world that she is going to do a good job here. “
When van Praag spoke, she first thanked George and Suzi for building the iconic brand. “I’m returning to my favorite place in the world, Los Angeles, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be working on OPI. I call this a dream come true. It’s the beginning of a new beginning and one I am so proud to be working with this team. I told George there is no way I can ever fill his shoes but I do have my own heels. “
More In The Know
ASCP, ISPA and PBA Receive 2026 Power of Associations Award for Esthetics Licensure Compact
This shared recognition celebrates the strength of industry collaboration in advancing professional mobility.
by Stacey Soble
In Dubai, Clients Visit the Salon Every Week. Here’s What That Market Can Teach You
In Dubai, a salon visit isn’t an appointment. It’s a weekly routine, and clients can spend $800 to $1,400 a month on it, according to Gaurav Tripathi of MADI International. On October 6-8, 2026, the market behind those numbers opens its doors as Beautyworld Dubai marks its 30th edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together distributors, brands, stylists and salon owners from all over the world.
Wear Your Wellness: Wearable Patches for Energy, Sleep, Stress, and Recovery
The Good Patch is a leading wearable wellness patch brand, offering wellness and skincare patches that support everyday needs including energy, sleep, relaxation and more.
by Anne Moratto
The Beauty Pro Book Club: 4 Reads to Inspire Growth and Success
Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!
by Anne Moratto
Improving Texture Skills for All: Ulta Beauty and BBR Announce Pilot Launch of All Textures Certification (ATC) and Training
Ulta Beauty has announced its partnership with Black Beauty Roster to launch the pilot of All Textures Certification (ATC). The new program is aimed at addressing gaps in education within the beauty industry and raising the level of skills and guest satisfaction for all.
by Staff
Mireya Villarreal Announces From Chair to Boss Live, a New Business Education Event for Beauty Professionals
Mireya Villarreal, founder of From Chair to Boss™, is bringing together beauty industry leaders for a new one-day educational event designed to help salon professionals strengthen the business side of their careers. From Chair to Boss Live! will take place September 28 at the Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center in Oak Brook, Illinois.
by Anne Moratto
Universe Walker to Host The Art of Dry Cutting Workshop in Brooklyn on July 20
Salon owner, tech founder, and educator Universe Walker will bring her signature workshop, The Art of Dry Cutting, to Brooklyn on July 20, offering stylists a chance to deepen their understanding of shape, movement, texture, and dry cutting.
by Staff
Staying Informed: Why the Financial Conversation in Beauty Is Changing
As part of our ongoing commitment to sharing resources that help beauty professionals stay informed, we thought it was worth introducing our audience to The Chatter and the unique perspective it brings to industry conversations.
by Anne Moratto
Dippity-Do Celebrates 60 Years of Hair Styling Innovation with Girls with Curls Collection
Celebrating 60 years in haircare, Dippity-Do is honoring its styling heritage with its Girls with Curls collection, a reimagined Light Hold Gelée inspired by the brand's original 1965 styling gel.
by Anne Moratto
Covet & Mane Expands Hair Extension Color System with New Color Boost Drops
Covet & Mane has expanded its Pro Color System with the launch of Color Boost Drops, completing what the company says is the first professional color system engineered specifically for hair extensions.
by Staff
Sam Villa Receives the Beauty Changes Lives Legacy Award
The 2026 Beauty Changes Lives Legacy Award has been awarded to Sam Villa for his trailblazing contribution, advocacy and mentorship that has profoundly transformed and elevated the professional beauty industry.
by Staff
CND Relaunches SHELLAC with New Visible Light Lamp Technology
CND is relaunching its SHELLAC system with a new CND Visible Light Lamp, updated packaging, and an expanded shade offering.
by Staff
Curl Cult Launches Community Investment Round, Inviting Stylists and Clients to Become Owners
Curl Cult founder Janine Jarman, a hairstylist, salon owner, educator, and product creator, is opening a community investment round that gives hairdressers and clients the opportunity to own a stake in the company they helped grow.
by Staff
The Professional Beauty Association Announces Winners of the 37th Annual North American Hairstyling Awards
The night honored the artists and collections shaping the future of professional beauty during PBA NAHA 2026.
by Staff
Celebrity Hair Stylist Martino Cartier Says GA.MA Professional’s iQsfera Hair Dryer Could Change How Stylists Think About Ergonomics
The ultra-lightweight, handle-free dryer is designed to reduce wrist strain while delivering powerful performance behind the chair.
by Staff
Aura Salonware Announces 2026 Scholarship Winners
Aura Salonware is proud to announce its 2026 scholarship recipients. This first-time scholarship in partnership with the Professional Beauty Association awarded three different scholarships to support beauty professionals at every point in their professional journey.