Nailco Turns Magic ’87 Trade Show Into Charitable Event

Magic ’87, Nailco’s second annual international nail show, is rapidly approaching with a full program of exhibits, competitions, workshops and entertainment.

Set for October 11-12 in Dearborn, Michigan, the show features over 70 booths of show specials, new products and demonstrations; over 20 classrooms presented by the industry’s finest manufacturers, and Nailco’s Grand Am, a sculptured nail competition with the highest cash prizes ever offered.

“This show exhibits the magic of nails in the exhibit hall, in the classrooms, in the fashion theater, in the workshops, in the awards ceremony and in the magic of Higa, our special guest magician live from Las Vegas,” said Larry Gaynor, executive director of Nailco.

An important focus of this year’s program will be the Nail Vision Fashion ’88, a 45-minute fashion show featuring the “trends of tomorrow.” Scheduled for after show hours, the presentation is also a fund raising event for the Juvenile Diabetes Society.

“This is a fully coordinated, choreographed, runway production with nine models and video coverage,” explained Larry. The goal of the program is to raise $10,000 for the non-profit organization.

“The beauty industry is known for supporting charitable organizations,” explained Larry, “and this is a way for the nail industry to start making a similar commitment.”

Six sponsors have already donated $1,000 each to start the fund raising: NAILS Magazine, American International, Charni Cosmetics, Creative Nail Design, OPI Products, and the Peau Corporation.

Additionally, tickets for the fashion show/fund raising will be available from sponsors at the show for $35 each.

“Several exhibitors are tying in with their show specials,” said Larry, “offering something like ‘Buy x amount and get a free ticket.’”

“All proceeds from this event go directly to the association,” explained Larry, adding that Nailco will be donating $4,000 to the charity.

One other unique aspect of this nail show is the use of Nailco “dollars,” a convenience to attendees wishing to use charge cards at the show.

“Many exhibitors are just not set up to accept major charge cards, so we set up a program where an attendee can charge a certain amount on their cards, and in exchange receive Nailco dollars good anywhere in the show,” explained Larry. Unused “dollars” will be credited back to the attendee’s card at the end of the show.