Leaders, brands, educators, artists and professionals from across the beauty and wellness industry gathered at the Hyatt Regency Orlando on Saturday, May 30, for the 2026 Beauty Changes Lives Gala, presented by L’Oréal Professional Products Division.
Continuing its evolution into a must-attend event for the beauty and wellness industry, the Gala united the professional community for an evening of connection, artistry, celebration and shared purpose. This year’s event welcomed record attendance and sponsorship, reflecting the continued expansion of Beauty Changes Lives and its ability to serve professionals across the industry.
“Beauty Changes Lives is about bringing the entire industry together to open doors for the next generation,” said Lisa Roeberg, President and Executive Director of Beauty Changes Lives. “The Gala celebrates the leaders who have shaped our professions while reminding us of our responsibility to support those who will define what comes next. We are deeply grateful to every sponsor, attendee, volunteer and partner whose support helps fuel education, mentorship and meaningful career opportunities.”
The evening began with the Gala’s first-ever sponsored cocktail reception, presented by Wella Company.
Hosted by Candy Shaw and Sonya Dove, with Elizabeth Faye welcoming guests from the White Carpet, the evening celebrated legacy, impact and the future of the profession.
Honoring Legacy Across Hair, Nails and Wellness
The 2026 Beauty Changes Lives Legacy Awards recognized three leaders whose careers have transformed their respective sectors through education, innovation, mentorship and service:
- Sam Villa, Legacy Award in Hair
- Jan Arnold, Legacy Award in Nails
- Marti Morenings, Legacy Award in Wellness
Honoring leaders across hair, nails and wellness reflects Beauty Changes Lives’ commitment to serving the full spectrum of beauty and wellness careers. The evening also highlighted the next generation of professionals, including Ulta Beauty scholarship recipient Cherea Scotland, whose journey reflects the opportunities made possible through industry support.
The celebration concluded with an industry-wide after-party presented by Jan Arnold, featuring extraordinary artistry, entertainment and celebration.
Industry Leaders Define the Future
Earlier that day, the invitation-only Beauty Changes Lives Industry Leader Roundtable convened executives and thought leaders from across the industry for a discussion focused on leading transformational change and defining the future of beauty and wellness. Our own editor in chief, Jeffrey C. Lunnen, was in attendance.
Beauty Changes Lives extends its gratitude to Presenting Sponsor L’Oréal Professional Products Division, Cocktail Reception Sponsor Wella Company, After-Party Sponsor Jan Arnold, and the many partners whose support fuels scholarships, mentorship and career opportunities.
Save the Date: June 5, 2027
The Beauty Changes Lives Industry Leader Roundtable and Gala will return on Saturday, June 5, 2027. The 2027 event will celebrate the 15th anniversary of Beauty Changes Lives and is expected to be the organization’s biggest Gala yet.
