Photo courtesy of Black Beauty Roster
Earlier this week, Black Beauty Roster (BBR), the leading inclusion platform for beauty professionals and creators, put on the trade show of the season in New York City.
Taking place at Chelsea Industrial, the inaugural BBR Beauty Show presented by SalonCentric, brought together hairstylists, makeup artists, creators, beauty enthusiasts, and thought leaders from various industries for a full day of programming featuring masterclasses, live demos, brand activations, and cultural connection. And it was full from the very minute the doors opened until the show ended.
Attendance was no doubt buoyed by the slated speakers. The BBR Beauty Show featured an acclaimed roster of speakers and talent including Lacy Redway, Danessa Myricks, Karrueche Tran, Jesseca Harris-Dupart, Mitchell Halliday, Achieng Agutu, Chelley Bissainthe, Angela C. Stevens (who served as the main stage host), Sabrina Dhowre Elba, Tippi Shorter Rank, Evie Peterson-Johnson, Jeannette Reyes, Susy Oludele, Vernon François, Janel Sealy Smith, Sly Huncho, and many more, including a fireside chat featuring model and activist Anok Yai and celebrity makeup artist Aston Em.
That’s not to mention the beauty industry legends, like Chuck Amos, who were casually spotted mixing and mingling — and participating in content creation — in the crowd.
In addition to the show’s title sponsor SalonCentric, who showed up with its own booth and demonstration stage, participating brands included Ulta Beauty, L’Oréal Groupe, Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross, Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Oribe, Bask & Lather, DevaCurl, OLAPLEX, Kenra Professional, Pravana, Joico and more. Professional hair brands, in particular, were well represented.
In a nod to iconic Black hair shows of the past, including Bronner Bros. which was name-dropped on the main stage, the BBR Beauty Show featured its own hair battle which explored and awarded artistry. Winner Janel Sealy Smith went home with $2,500.00 toward shopping with SalonCentric!
“The BBR Beauty Show is where business, artistry, and culture intersect,” said Maude Okrah Hunter, Founder of BBR. “Our vision is to create a world-class destination where beauty professionals, brands, and industry leaders can connect, learn, discover new opportunities, and help shape a more innovative and inclusive industry.”
Events are hotter than ever, but there was none hotter than the BBR Beauty Show. Mission accomplished. We can’t wait to see what’s next.
