Smokies Nail Show Shines in Gatlinburg Success
The 16th Smokies Nail Show, held from July 7-10, 2023, in Gatlinburg, TN, has concluded with remarkable success, leaving attendees and organizers alike eager for the next installment. Nestled in the heart of Gatlinburg, known for the majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this event continues to attract nail technicians, industry experts, and leading brands from across the globe.
A Brief History of the Smokies Nail Show
Originating in 2008 as a small networking event with just 50 licensed nail techs, the Smokies Nail Show has evolved into a premier nails-only wholesale show. Over the years, it has grown to become an essential gathering for industry players to share knowledge, discover innovative products, and celebrate nail artistry.
Highlights from the 2023 Smokies Nail Show
The latest edition, held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, provided a captivating platform for networking, learning, and showcasing the newest innovations in nail care. Salon and spa owners, beauty school students, and nail technicians, including one international attendee from India, gathered to partake in an event that was much more than just professional development; it was an opportunity to create lasting memories.
Industry-Leading Exhibitors
The bustling show floors were alive with excitement as top-notch exhibitors displayed cutting-edge products, tools, and technologies. This year’s exhibitors had attendees buzzing with anticipation, exploring and interacting with prominent brands. Some exhibitors were thrilled to report sold-out stock by midday and were busy filling sales orders for shipment.
A Wealth of Workshops and Seminars
The event featured three days of over 30 optional paid workshops and seminars, many of which sold out in advance. Famous industry professionals led these sessions, sharing invaluable insights and innovative techniques. These included nail art masterclasses, business development strategies, and advanced foot care tips, equipping attendees with new skills to advance in their careers.
Valuable Networking Opportunities
The newly introduced ‘Swag Swap Center’ provided a welcoming environment for relaxation and connection. It fostered new relationships among attendees, inspired problem-solving discussions, and facilitated potential collaborations already shaping the professional journeys of nail techs present.
Successful and Growing
Jill Wright, Event Coordinator, reflected on the event’s success: “We are thrilled to witness the overwhelming response and enthusiasm from the nail tech community. The passion and dedication highlight the significance of such professional nails-only events in fostering growth and excellence within our industry.”
The Smokies Nail Show is deeply grateful to its sponsors, exhibitors, attendees, and partners for their unwavering support, which was pivotal to the event’s success. Esteemed sponsors such as Light Elegance, Gehwol, 2 Blondes Apparel, and Lucas Products played a critical role.
Looking Forward to 2024
As this year’s Smokies Nail Show concludes, anticipation is already building for the next event, scheduled for July 12-15, 2024. With every successful show, organizers are continually motivated to deliver even greater experiences for the nail tech community and uphold the legacy of this inspiring event.
