A week in review from PBA Executive Director Leslie Perry.
Some weeks stand out as milestones—moments that not only inspire, but reaffirm why we do what we do. Last week was one of those weeks for me.
It began with the honor of being part of Bloom, a remarkable event hosted by John Paul Mitchell Systems. Bloom brought together hairstylists and salon owners from around the world to connect, grow, learn, and celebrate the incredible profession we share. From the moment I arrived, the energy was palpable—a space filled with creativity, artistry, and a deep love for the craft of professional beauty.
Bloom wasn’t just an event; it was a reminder of the power of community. When we gather in spaces like this, we strengthen the ties that unite us, exchange ideas that fuel our growth, and celebrate the artistry that makes our profession so unique. I left feeling inspired, supported, and proud to be part of a global network that is shaping the future of our industry.
The next day, I had the privilege of shifting to another incredible industry gathering, as I moderated a powerful panel discussion at Moroccanoil’s The Collective. Our focus was on reclaiming credibility and respect as both an industry and a profession. The conversation was bold, honest, and necessary. We talked about what credibility means in today’s beauty landscape, how we can continue to elevate our standards, and the role we each play in shaping public perception of our work.
Both events gave us opportunities to celebrate our artistry and community, and challenged us to protect and advance the respect and credibility our work deserves. They painted a powerful picture of an industry that is not only beautiful in its creativity but strong in its conviction.
I’m grateful to John Paul Mitchell Systems and Moroccanoil for creating spaces where beauty professionals can gather, learn, and lead. And I’m even more grateful for the people—hairstylists, salon owners, educators, and leaders—who continue to show up for this profession with passion and purpose.
The future of professional beauty is ours to shape. Let’s keep growing, blooming, and advocating for the respect our artistry deserves.
