THE EVENT: Redken’s Symposium, 2013, held this past January at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas.

THE DETAILS: Almost 10,000 salon professionals representing 23 countries attended the three day Symposium to learn more about cut, color, design, trend, business and more.  There were 22 classes led by Redken superstars such as SamVilla, Kris Sorbie, Ellen Lawlor, David Stanko, Dhaniel Doud, Chris Baran and Michael Cole. The 90 minute classes were eclectic and clever with names such as “Blonde Nation”, “Myths: Busted!”, “Change is Good”, “Red Carpet Worthy”, “Go Digital” and a special “Celebrity Sightings” class led by Rodney Cutler and Jenny Balding. Pureology’s Ruth Roche and Wendy Belanger presented “Expressions and Expertise”, a class offering a collection of looks designed for colour-treated hair. The sold out “People’s Choice Color Class,” held by Leah Freeman and Ty Isobe, was designed to answer attendees most burning questions and solve their most challenging problems.

EXTRA CREDIT: Ann Mincey, a Redken and Symposium Icon, held an extra credit class called “I Am Your Client: Client Frustrations.” Mincey demonstrated, in a creative and captivating presentation including 5 outfit changes, how the client is looking for guidance from her salon professional on how she can take her look from the gym to work to a red carpet event.

THE ULTIMATE CHROMATICS CONTEST: A special make over contest using Redken’s Chromatics was held prior to opening night with the finalists presenting their looks on stage at the grand opening. Votes were cast live during the opening ceremony. Congratulations to Young Talent winner Timka Tremouille of the Thenix Salon Suites, Colorado Springs, Colorado.

LAUNCHED: Attendees got the first peek at some of the most exciting launches to take place in 2013. Diamond Oil Haircare, an oil infused haircare line designed to restore vibrancy and brilliance to damaged hair, will be available in May. The new Steam Infusion, a steam straightening iron releasing a continuous flow of steam to help deliver conditioning treatments while styling the hair, will be available in July.

THE BAND: Symposium attendees are always treated to a night of fun and frolic. Entertaining the group was a live performance by One Republic, the band responsible for such hits as “Secrets”, “Apologize”, “Good Life” and “Mercy”.