Kechia Taylor: Black Micropigmentation Association
Dior Davenport: Black Micropigmentation Association
Teresa Miranda: Red Lipstick Makeup Studio
At Vagaro's iconic.22 conference on September 26 in San Francisco, beauty professionals from around the country gathered to discuss industry topics. A panel of stylists featuring Kechia Taylor & Dior Davenport of the Black Micropigmentation Association, and Teresa Miranda of Red Lipstick Makeup Studio, discussed trends and changes in the beauty industry. Moderated by Vagaro's OnPoint podcast host, Taylor Burke, the conversation explored shifts in the beauty industry and how the panelists keep up with trends.
One of the changes discussed was the shift to more digital-based services due to recent years. When in-person services could no longer be the primary source of income, beauty business owners had to rethink their strategies and adapt. Taylor & Davenport began offering online training for aspiring beauty professionals and new products. Davenport started selling magnetic lashes that clients could wear until they were able to come in for their regular services. Online classes allowed Taylor to expand her reach internationally. Now, she teaches students across the pond.
This focus on education came up multiple times, with Taylor also noting how important it was to continually invest in one’s own education, both in beauty and business. Miranda noted that networking and learning from fellow professionals is essential in continuing your own professional development.
Many beauty industry professionals wonder how they can ensure clients will show up to appointments. Some hesitate to implement no-show or cancellation policies. But Davenport put it into perspective:
You have to respect us; our time is valuable.
Because she treats her clients with respect, she expects the same in return. “If I have a client that’s paying $10 [for a service] and one that’s paying $1,000, I give them the same service.”
This theme of treating clients with respect came up when discussing inclusivity and promoting diversity in the beauty industry.
Beauty is inclusive to all.
This theme of treating clients with respect came up when discussing inclusivity and promoting diversity in the beauty industry. “Beauty is inclusive to all,” said Taylor. To celebrate and respect anyone who might come into a salon, stylists should educate themselves in delivering a top-tier experience for clients, no matter their skin color, hair texture or complexion. Taylor continued that one-dimensional, non-diverse branding “can send a negative message even before you talk to the client.” Finally, Davenport noted there’s $2.9 billion in industry losses accrued from not being an inclusive beauty business. By committing to inclusivity, beauty professionals will create a salon that celebrates and embraces diversity, as well as a lucrative business model.
If you want to hear more about keeping up with beauty industry trends, keep an eye on the blog and check your email to sign up for Vagaro’s iconic On Demand feature to access the many other moments that made the iconic.22 conference an amazing experience.
