James Bronner: Groomed to take the lead
Bronner Bros.’ legendary International Beauty Show is unequivocally the most instrumental when it comes to educating multicultural professionals and shaping beauty trends.
The 68th annual event promises to be an experience like no other. Just ask it’s new leader. “I have been attending this show since I was 5 years old,” shares James Bronner, SVP of trade show operations. “At this winter’s event titled, Be Blown Away By The Best and The Brightest, You can expect a lot of new things.”
New includes a fresh take on the exhibit hall, which will exclusively feature beauty industry professionals and vendors.
“I went around and introduced myself as the new leader to barbers and stylists and asked them what they’d like to see different at the show. They told me when they attended 20 and 30 years ago, some of them, they met my father and how they were so inspired by the show they’d go back to the workplace to share it with everyone. We are bringing back that enthusiasm. There will be over 170 classes offered featuring a host of leading nail technicians, hair stylists and makeup artists,” he promises.
Founded in 1947, the family-owned company is one of the oldest African American-owned businesses in the U.S. and one of the few in the beauty industry. Though many other businesses have shuttered or merged with mainstream companies, Bronner Bros. has managed to sustain a thriving, Black-owned business for nearly seven decades. In addition to running their own private-owned company, Bronner Bros. has made a point to support similar companies over the years – their first manufacturer was based in Selma, Alabama.
“We’ll even have Johnny Wright, who does first lady Michelle Obama’s hair, Ming Lee, Shekinah Jo, Michael Vick and Monica, who has sold over 25 million albums worldwide. When you’re in the presence of greatness, it rubs off on you.
“There’s energy at Bronner Bros. you won’t find anywhere else,” he closes.
Bronner Bros. will host its legendary International Beauty Show Feb. 21-23 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.
