RCS was privileged to receive a preview of this year’s Bronner Brothers Hair show. The Bronner Brothers show is one of the largest and longest-running hair show in the world. it is definitely the biggest hair show for African-American and people of color. Its an eye opener to see this juggernaut of a show being brought together.
To a certain extent, this year represents a new beginning for the show as a new generation of Bronners have taken over the reigns at this grand operation. In this transitional period, James Bronner is now the new Director of Operations with other younger family members also getting involved in the operations of the show.
James shared that he will be traveling to hair shows in the UK, Asia and other parts of the world to see what’s out there that could enhance their product offering. Although Bronner’s hair show attracts visitors and vendors from as far as Japan, it is important to keep the younger generation engaged.
Although the Exhibits and vendor booths appear to be at the forefront, education plays a large part of the show. The Bronner Brothers offer 150 classes in all things hair at the show. As James said “Giving people the knowledge of how to deal with coarse and black hair” is a key element of the show, it not just about the products.
Atlanta or “Atlantawood” is now chock full of celebrities and they were out in force at the show. Many of them are brand ambassadors for skin and hair products or have their own lines of products represented at the show. When you see a long line more often than not there is a celebrity at the other end. Its not just product. there are also lots of hair celebrities who are as large as the reality stars.
John Paul Mitchell Systems founder and Patron Tequila owner John Paul DeJoria attended the Bronner Brothers Hair Show for the launch of their new product “Marulla Oil” which is made from an African plant which is supposed to heal and prevent split end in hair.
One of the notable events during the Hair Show weekend is “Bronners After Dark”. This is an event to be seen; it is an epic battle of the superstars of hair cutting and hair-design world. Its a competition that should be seen to be believed. its a competition of artistry and valor somewhat akin to the gladiator clashes in the Roman Empire but with scissors and theatrical flair. To get on that stage you have to be adept not only at hairstyling but also in getting the audience support – they need those cheers! The stylists must also be somewhat cinematic in their delivery. A version of this battle royal will be coming to a television screen near you soon as a television production team was filming one of the hair cuttting battles for an upcoming television show.
Photo credit: Zeriba Media
