The Professional Beauty Association (PBA), hosted its 20th International Salon and Spa Expo (ISSE) January 26-28, 2019 at the Long Beach Convention Center. And for the first time, PBA merged ISSE with its North America Hairstyling Awards (NAHA), which brought a new dimension of excitement and energy to the pro beauty event.
With more than 300 exhibitors, including many of the industry’s top brands, and boasting over 200 complementary and premium haircutting and styling, color, makeup artistry, business, and skin and nail care classes, the show delivered an immersive shopping and educational experience for beauty professionals.
"Now in its 20th year, the International Salon and Spa Expo remains the showcase event for the licensed beauty professional. Through the newest and most innovative education, opportunities to connect face to face with brands, and three days of personal connection with peers across the country, ISSE embodies the heart and soul of the professional beauty industry,” said Steve Sleeper, executive director of the Professional Beauty Association.
Many “celebrity” beauty professionals made appearances during the event, including Ted Gibson, Larisa Love and Martino Cartier. Cartier was seen walking the show room floor with Paula Abdul and a large entourage.
Exhibitors were recognized with the following Best Booth Awards.
- Best Linear Booth: Sugar Bear Hair
- Best Island Booth: Obliphica
- Best Large Island Booth: Brazilian Professionals
- Best Spirit Award: Wet Brush
2018 Olympic Bronze Medalist Figure Skater Adam Rippon hosted NAHA, Saturday evening, January 26. NAHA 2019 featured artistic presentations by Danielle Keasling, Amika's Pro Team, Olivia Garden's Artistic Team, special guests and endless inspiration. Top honors went to Julie Vriesinga for “Hairstylist of the Year.” For a full list of NAHA award recipients, visit probeauty.org.
The NAILPRO nail competition and Major League Barber’s Barber Brawl competition also provided a form for artistry and inspiration. For a full list of winners and categories, visit probeauty.org.
Photo courtesy of PBA.