Renowned for attracting the largest number of visitors from across black hair, beauty, health and lifestyle categories, Afro Hair & Beauty LIVE – Europe’s largest consumer show for black women – opened it’s doors and welcomed a record number of visitors to the 35th Afro Hair & Beauty LIVE 2016 which took place on Sunday 29th – Monday 30th May. Pat Pekter CEO of Afro Hair & Beauty LIVE said: “I was delighted with the number of visitors who turned out for this year. Ticket sales leading up to the show were up 20% on last year. We have a strong and loyal customer base which year on year, sees visitors to Afro Hair & Beauty LIVE continue to grow”.
Over 75 leading hair and beauty brands showcased their latest products and services. Visitors witnessed a host of activities including the Afropolitan Fashion Show which included six Parisian designers, the Afro Chic Boutique, the annual Live Panel Stage Debate, educational seminars, competitions, giveaways, beauty treatments, complimentary massages, facials and health check-ups.
For the first time the VIP Lounge was powered by market leaders ORS, where guests sipped on summer rum cocktails courtesy of Rum Bar and Grace Tropical Rhythms and enjoyed Caribbean Canapés prepared by First Class Chefs Ltd. Top hair and beauty social media influencers joined the social event of the season collaborating with brands and discussing new innovations in hair products. Special guests included E! Network and former Radio 1 Xtra host Sarah Jane Crawford, Britain’s Stronger In Europe campaigner June Sarpong, comedian Kojo, award winning actress and social media stars.
A brilliant line-up of speakers and top industry professionals made this year’s seminar programme highly stimulating. On stage entertainment hosted by Amanda Star of The Beat London and comedian Reuben Christian included the eagerly anticipated WAHL’s Battle of The Barbers competition with judges 5ive Da Stylist, Gladys Williams of Zenobia Hair & Beauty Salon, celebrity stylist Clifford McDavid and comedian Kojo voting Nathan Hines of Edmonton based Best Barbers, King Barber and received £500 of WAHL products.
Event organisers, Grace Kelly and Verna McKenzie said “It has been wonderful to see how well the show has once again been received. We were delighted by the quality of products on display, there was something for everyone. We would like to thank My Hair Bar, Caroline Chinakwe of Chinakweloves and Mayura Models who delivered the fantastic fashion element to the show. Thank you to the whole team!”
The spirit of #AHBLIVE continues online! Tag us in your pictures and follow us on social media as we feature some our Afro Hair & Beauty LIVE Lovelies on afrohairandbeautylive Facebook AHBLive and Twitter @afrohairshow hashtag #AHBLive2016 #OWNIT
