IBS Las Vegas attracted beauty professionals who came to mix, mingle and master their craft.
As the heat index soared in Las Vegas this June, so did attendance at the International Beauty Show (IBS), which took place at the Las Vegas Convention Center from June 21 to 23. Nearly 20,000 beauty professionals gathered to check out the latest products and demonstrations on the show floor, watch beauty’s best on the main stage and enhance their skills in the classrooms. “IBS Las Vegas continues to grow, and we’re just thrilled with the attendee turnout and the exhibitor feedback we’ve received regarding their event experience,” said Liza Wylie, vice president of beauty and spa events at Questex Media Group. “Sales volume was up for a number of our exhibitors, and our re-sign for the 2015 show was very strong. For the first time ever, seven of our workshops were sold out before the show even began.”
On the show floor, exhibitors such as Andis Company, Brazilian Blowout, CND, Hairdreams and OPI displayed their latest products and shared their expertise. The IBS Las Vegas main stage welcomed for the first time the talented DJ Muldoon & Team Factory and Clark Russell, while fan favorites Nick Arrojo and Martin Parsons wowed the often standing-room-only audience. Kelly Cardenas gave inspirational messages, and Lisa Yamasaki teamed up with Allen Edwards and Roshar to present breathtaking looks. Rounding out the impressive roster were Ryan and DeAnnalyn Teal, and James Harris and the Hair Fashion Group.
In addition to dazzling main stage performances, more than 100 informative classes were offered, covering hairstyling and coloring, nail enhancements, makeup application and business building. New master classes also enhanced the agenda, giving beauty pros the opportunity to take their knowledge to the next level.
This year’s event was also chock-full of exciting competitions. The National Eyelash Education & Safety Association hosted its Lash Wars, where participants battled for cash and product prizes in two categories: Salon Style and Dramatic 6D+. At least 250 nail professionals from around the globe also put their skills to the test in hand-painted nail art (pin-up girls theme), 3-D nail art (mafia theme) and fantasy nail art (biker chicks theme). Prizes ranged from trophies and products to cash. IBS was also the proud host of the final qualifying round for Battle of the Strands. “We’re extremely excited about our partnership with the International Beauty Shows,” said Mina Lu, chairman-executive committee member of Battle of the Strands. “Each year, Battle of the Strands continues to grow and fulfill its mission of showcasing extreme talent and artistry of stylists as the Picassos of the beauty world.”
IBS Las Vegas 2015 will take place from June 20 to 22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. For more information, visit IBSlasvegas.com. ✂ —Lisa Bruckenstein
Photography: Big Tom Photography