NEW YORK – A series of innovative on-site experiences served as a cornerstone of engagement at this year’s International Beauty Show, co-hosted (IBS New York) and International Conference on Aesthetics, Cosmetics and Spa (IECSC New York), which was held from March 5 to 7 at the Javits Center in New York.
The shows, both produced by Questex, spanned nearly 100,000 square feet, The show attracted nearly 30,000 beauty and wellness professionals for three days of training sessions and workshops, featuring presentations from leading artists and estheticians. More than 500 brands participated, showcasing new products and services and offering discounts at the show.
“2023 marked a new chapter for IBS and IECSC New York, propelled by the success of our new–“On-site experiences that were designed as a way to celebrate and support our attendees,” said Elizabeth Fantetti, director of events and partnerships, Beauty & Spa Group, Questex.
One of the new on-site experiences at IBS New York this year was the Powerhouse Pavilion, which honored Black entrepreneurs in the beauty industry. It included a gallery, sponsored by Myavana, that featured educational panels highlighting the history of Black entrepreneurs in the industry.
“This means a lot to a Black woman. It’s a game changer to help give a voice to the unheard and those who have been overlooked for so long. It motivates me to use my voice to make a difference,” Keya Neal, Industry Activist and DEI Strategist, Kolour Kulture, and one of the educators at this year’s show, said.
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The Look & Learn stage featured beauty demonstrations by renowned artists, Attendees were able to enjoy cocktails and networking. “We wanted to break away from the traditional main stage setup of previous years to engage the younger attendees with the exhibitors as well as the presenters on stage. So we broke the rules a bit and had fun with the space,” Fantetti said.
Other areas dedicated to the event included a graffiti wall and a selfie area. “We incorporated a funky graffiti wall sponsored by Andis that was kitschy and fun, a cocktail bar for networking with exhibitors and, of course, the stage to showcase the latest trends,” Fantetti said. “We even changed the seating and added little sofas and soft cubes to the traditional folding chairs. It was a real hit.”
The Healthy You Pavilion, located at the IECSC New York show floor, offered attendees the opportunity to “say yes to healthy living” while learning about the latest health and wellness products. Attendees could also stop by the Recharge & Hydrate Lounge to network.
“This year, we launched the ‘Say Yes to You’ campaign, which focused on our attendees. These three days at our events allowed them to feel special, learn from the best educators in the industry and become the best version of themselves,” said Fantetti.
Additionally, the IECSC exhibition space included the Studio Stage, a demonstration area developed to allow exhibitors to showcase the latest products and technologies.
“The feedback from everyone who attended this year’s New York shows has been extremely positive,” said Fantetti. “We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing our growth.”
Upcoming shows includeIBS Las Vegas And IECSC Las Vegaswhich will take place from June 24 to 26, 2023, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. IECSC Floridawill take place October 15-16, 2023 at the Palm Beach Convention Center.
Contact Elizabeth Fantetti at (212) 895-8487 or efantetti@questex.com; Keya Neal at (843) 324-1966 or info@kolorkulture.com