Every time IBE opens its doors, the event is bigger and better for both exhibiting brands and the full spectrum of guests that come to discover what’s new, next, and best in indie beauty. Next month’s show in Dallas, Texas, will be no exception. “In Dallas, we will be debuting the most advanced iteration of IBE—one that will represent all of our learnings and improvements to-date,” Jillian Wright, co-founder of IBE, tells the press. “We want to make an impact in Texas and we are investing to make that happen.”
While beauty is often portrayed as an industry that thrives in the Tri-State Area on the East Coast and the Bay Area out West, IBE has wisely opted to expand its reach to include a sort of middle ground. “Indie brands are the driver of innovation and growth in the beauty industry,” says Nader Naeymi-Rad, co-founder of IBE, in a media release about the upcoming show. “And Texas is one of the most vibrant, affluent and rapidly growing consumer markets in the world. We felt it was time the two met.”
For brand leaders
The expo is carefully scheduled. And, Connect Indie (as the first day of IBE is known) is dedicated to entrepreneurs, indie beauty brand founders, CEOs, and even non-exhibiting brands.
“Indie entrepreneurs need more than just an expo,” explains Wright. “They also need access to a platform where they can learn practical knowledge and skills while building valuable relationships to support their growth….Connect Indie provides this.”
The day features courses and panel discussions on topics like targeting the right media, working with home shopping networks, understanding funding options, and how to connect with buyers.
Connect Indie also includes a networking cocktail hour where attendees can “meet and build relationships with other founders, entrepreneurs, industry experts and IBE staff,” according to the media release.
For shoppers and writers
The second day of the expo is known as Shop Indie and includes time for the exhibiting indie beauty brands to meet with press and engage with consumers.
In Dallas, Shop Indie will also include programming. Panels will address safer indie beauty alternatives, beauty rituals for brands and fans, and “The Real Housewives of Dallas [will] share their beauty regimen, on-camera makeup tips and the best makeup styles for events and parties.”
For buyers and pros
The final day of IBE Dallas is devoted to buyers and trade professionals. Besides the opportunity to “interact with the world’s largest collection of independent beauty brands,” programming will cover ingredient trends, what’s driving the independent beauty market, and live makeovers.
All in all it’s shaping up to be a must-see beauty industry event: “IBE is now recognized as the definitive destination to discover the best independent brands and entrepreneurial education in beauty in North America,” Naeymi-Rad tells the press. “We have been honored and humbled by the positive reception from brands, buyers, press and consumers and are incredibly excited to bring the IBE platform to the Texas market.”
Learn more about the Indie Beauty Expo here.