I took my whole staff to ISSE, and I thought it was a great show. The energy level, including for nails, was really strong, which is a good sign for the industry (especially considering that it was poor for the past two years). I noticed that the soak-off gel trend is strong.

My big find at the show was the Napoleon Perdis make-up line. I just got the display set up in my salon, and I’m excited to add make-up to our menu. This will make ROB|B a one-stop beauty shop. The salon isn’t selling the product just yet, as I’m currently getting my staff trained in it, but three of my employees are amazing make-up artists so I’m optimistic about this addition. The plan is to offer make-up services by the nail bar, and I’m hoping this new activity at the front of the salon will draw in more passers-by.

I also stopped by the European Touch booth to see what’s new with the company that makes my pedicure chairs, and by the booth for the salon’s software company SalonSTX. SalonSTX has come up with a new iPhone and iTouch app that we’re looking into making work at our salon.

Another exciting development is that last month my salon started offering Minx nail coatings. Plus, the Damone Roberts partnership in the new brow room is going well. Our two brands complement each other very well.

—Robbie, ROB|B: An OPI Concept Salon, Studio City, Calif.