Every time we do the Salon of the Year Awards, the energy of the audience and enthusiasm of the finalist overwhelm me. More than 200 industry peers and business partners came to see NAILS’ fourth annual awards event.

NAILS Magazine launched the Salon of the Year Awards in 1994 for a couple of reasons; One, we wanted a way to help build the reputation and enhance the image of nail technicians as true professionals. We wanted to elevate some of the outstanding individuals whose work, business acumen, and personalities made them natural leaders and excited others about the profession. We wanted to take these nail technicians and develop them into well-known, respected industry leaders and “celebrities.” Second, we wanted to have a great party—and event where we could get all dressed up and celebrate, have fun, network, and meet new friends. NAILS’ Salon of the Year Awards is all about recognizing and celebrating achievement in our industry.

Thank you to all of you who have participated over the years and to the winners for fulfilling our grand goals. (Who hasn’t now heard of Shari Finger, Debbie Krakalovich, Debbie Schoaff, or Linda Champion to name a few?). We are especially grateful to Larry Gaynor of the Industry Source (which you all know as Nailco), who shared our vision and commitment from the outset. The Industry Source has sponsored the Awards since their inception, and is our committed partner in the Awards program for 1999.

I encourage you to enter the Salon of the Year Awards program in 1999. Look in your July issue for the application. You’ll notice new categories, bigger prize packages, and a few more surprises. Start thinking about your entry now, and we’ll see you in Dearborn on October 23 at the Great Lakes Beauty show for the 1999 Salon of the Year Awards!

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