Beautycon La Makes an Iconic Comeback
Stop contouring for a second and pay attention, because Beautycon is here! Imagine a place where you can meet excited people with the same interests as you and get free samples of amazing products, all while getting to see your favorite celebrities at one time. Well, imagine no more, because after a four-year break, Beautycon LA returned September 16-17, with everything you could ever dream of and more. Not only is the event back, but under new ownership with Essence Ventures. It is a privately owned black business whose mission is to uplift the black community through experiences, content, products, and more.
For those who don’t know, Beautycon is fashion, makeup, nails, and inspiration all wrapped up into one platform. With Generation Z’s demand for inclusivity, acceptance, and togetherness, this event comes at the perfect time (or something like that). For starters, the jam-packed occasion was hosted by two amazing content creators, Emira D’Spain and Nyma Tang. D’Spain has a huge social media platform and became the first Black transgender woman to model for Victoria’s Secret. Tang also has a large following and is an activist against colorism.
The influencers in attendance were never-ending, ranging from makeup artists and social media creators like Arnell Armon, Gabriel Zamora, Trevor Barrett, Cristian Dennis, Raye Boyce, Lala Milan, Ve’ondre Mitchell, and many more. Even new and experienced Hollywood stars such as Kelly Rowland, Tia Mowry, Marsai Martin, and Peyton List made an appearance. To sum it up, there was someone for everyone. Here’s a little run down of all the details.
D’spain hosted day one, and it began with a welcoming ceremony from the CEO of Essence, Caroline Wanga, and Head of Programming Sophia Dennis.
The first segment was titled, “Creators’s Lane: The Road to the Beauty Bag,” which Beautycon’s website describes as a way to learn how to grow one’s influencer brand.
“A deep dive into growing your brand as an influencer or content created in the beauty space through effective marketing strategies, partnering with your creator community, and building lucrative brand relationships.”
A masterclass was held with makeup artist and influencer Trevor Barrett, sharing all types of unique tips on perfecting one’s makeup routine.
“I want to show you my specialty and favorite thing to do with makeup, which is eyes,” said Barrett.
Other segments surrounded topics like hair, makeup brands, and celebrity advice. Tia Mowry shared information on diversity in the beauty world, and young powerhouse Marsai Martin gave advice regarding life and personal growth. Both are not only known for their on-screen roles but also own beauty brands of their own. Some shows Mowry has appeared in include the 90’s hit sitcom Sister, Sister and the Netflix show Family Reunion. Martin may be known for the award-winning TV show Blackish or the comedy film, Little, which she starred in and executive produced.
Day 2, hosted by Tang, dove into topics of motherhood, nail art, and a segment with CEO Kelly Rowland titled, “Passion to Profit.”
“I just want to remind everyone here that the canvas that you start with in the morning is the most beautiful canvas,” said Rowland.
Even with the major change in ownership, positivity and great experience still prevail. From networking to inspiration to even going out with musical performances from Rhea Raj on day 1 and BIA on day 2. The Beautycon La experience was unforgettable.
Strike Out,
Writer: Shari Ryant
Editor: Cristina Angee
Tallahassee