100 Years Strong


When a small group of salon owners united in 1912 to form the Chicago Hairdressers & Wigmakers Association, the goal was to support and help one another build a solid beauty business. One hundred years later, that small group has blossomed to become 7,000 members strong and part of Cosmetologists Chicago (CC). Each year, CC produces America's Beauty Show and unites more than 50,000 salon professionals for the very best in education, entertainment and collective beauty energy.

On March 3 through 5, 2012, Cosmetologists Chicago invited the entire industry to celebrate its 100th anniversary at America's Beauty Show at McCormick Place in downtown Chicago.

Cementing the centennial milestone, Mayor of Chicago Rahm Emanuel and Illinois Governor Pat Quinn recognized the contributions CC has made to promote, grow and support the industry. They declared the weekend "Cosmetologists Chicago Days" in Chicago and the entire state of Illinois, respectively. Mayor Emanuel also contributed by permanently adopting the labor union work reforms, which allow for greater flexibility and cost savings for exhibitors and attendees, including reduced parking rates and Wi-Fi.

"America's Beauty Show is the event that helped shape the leaders in our area and across the Midwest as they built their careers and businesses," says Cosmetologists Chicago President Frank Gironda of Frank Gironda Salon & Spa, Naperville, Ill. "For 87 years, America's Beauty Show, formerly 'The Midwest Beauty Show, has been the spring event to educate, inspire and introduce new looks, products and techniques. And so it will continue for years to come."

Metallic beauty reigns from party dress to nail color
 
PG Salon Professional celebrates 100 Years of Beauty
Metallic beauty reigns from party dress to nail color   PG Salon Professional celebrates 100 Years of Beauty

Photo credits: Babak for 2012 America's Beauty Show