Redken Euopean Symposium – Berlin 2012
Representing Somerset in a delegation of 79 invited hairdressers from the UK and Ireland I witnessed Redken’s first ever European Symposium in Berlin, the diverse capital of Germany. The event saw thousands of hairdressers traveling from across the continent – and the rest of the world – to revel in the Redken ethos of “be inspired, be part of it.”
In fact there were 2,500 delegates from 25 countries gathered at former airport, Tempelhof, for the spectacular opening show, that combined live demonstrations with catwalk elements and more than a hint of drama.
The main purpose of the show was to highlight the versatility of Redken’s new colour range Chromatics, with a myriad of shades paraded in front of the excitable crowd. Just as diverse was the array of styles on display – from geometric bobs to multi-textured tresses. Crimped, curled and blow-dried for volume, hair was big and beautiful, or perfectly cut into classic graduation. Fashion was retro, ethereal and sexy in equal measure, demonstrating the versatility of Chromatics and the talent of its international team of Redken artists.
Two days of seminars followed, covering both business and creative element of hairdressing.
Also time to party, we were invited back in the evening at the Tempelhof for an evening of food, wine and live music. Meeting old friends and making new, the opportunity to network with some of the UK and Europe’s finest hairdressers is always hugely inspiring. I don’t think I have ever returned from these events without loads of ideas, but mostly a reminder of the overwhelming love that I have for hairdressing and the beautiful engaging people that make up my chosen industry…. Best, Simon Willetts, Combers,- Taunton’s leading hair salon