Sad as it is for us Michiganders, there’s no escaping the fact that it’s time for cooler weather and putting away the summer toys – but it’s time for some good things, as well. Fall brings football, the World Series, and in Michigan, some of the most beautiful foliage in the country. For those of us in the sun biz, it’s time to start gearing up and getting our salons ready for the upcoming busy season. On my list for 2014: preparing budgets, finalizing decisions on new equipment, locations for new stores and hiring staff. Most importantly, I’ll be getting my staff trained on new products and having all of them complete the Sun is Life® GEM training series and certification; professionalism is key right now.
When it comes to preparing for the upcoming season, THE place to be for anyone wanting the first look at new 2014 products is the FS Expo in St. Louis, MO on October 11-13 – it’s the can’t miss “BIG SHOW” this fall. I was in St. Louis with the FS team back in July and it’s an amazing venue for a trade event. Not only will attendees see everything that’s new, they can also get their teams certified by Professor Tony Brown and Sun is Life®. The super-impressive presentation lineup includes a “secret” keynote address by one of the best speakers I’ve seen in my 32 years in this industry. But as impressive as all that may be, attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy some amazing nightlife. If you haven’t already decided to attend this Expo, I encourage you all to do so soon. I believe that if you want to be alongside other industry leaders and professionals who are planning to make the most of the season, this is the fall show to attend.
As always, this issue has abundant content for salon pros and their staff. Ribby did a great “Industry Close-up” of a veteran Indiana salon pro, Lisa Brooking. She’s taken the time to contribute to features in IST on several occasions, and is truly dedicated to our industry. Other tan biz veterans highlighted in this issue are two key members of Team IST. Congrats to John P. Ribner on publishing his second book – he’s very dedicated to his craft , and to Liz Wenstrom on her marriage – it was such a special event to be part of. These are two people who have helped make IST the industry’s No. 1 publication.
Speaking of industry popularity… it’s time to vote in our 10th Annual Industry Choice Awards! I’m happy to announce that the top five nominees in each category will be revealed in St. Louis at the FS Expo. The ICAs are this industry’s only recognition of excellence, so please take a few minutes to vote for your favorite products and people.
