We’ve just wrapped up an incredible journey at “Ascend: The High Impact Business Retreat” in Clearwater Beach, FL, and the energy is still buzzing in the air! From November 4-7, 2023, we didn’t just gather; we embarked on a journey that redefined the essence of our industry, driven by our unwavering commitment to purpose and the people at the heart of our mission.
A Journey of Growth, Community, and Inspiration
Our remarkable journey began with the elegant White-Glove Party. It was a scene right out of a fairytale, with every member dressed in their finest white attire, embodying sophistication and style. As the sun set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, we savored delicious appetizers, the kind that not only pleases the palate but also the soul. It wasn’t just about the food or the stunning view; it was about the connections formed, the stories shared, and the community strengthened. This evening set the perfect tone for the transformative experience that lay ahead.
Three Days of Empowerment
The core of Ascend was our intensive 3-day workshop. We were honored to host an impressive roster of guest speakers, each a beacon of inspiration and a fountain of knowledge. Their stories weren’t just narratives; they were blueprints of success, guiding us towards our most profitable and liberating year yet. These sessions were more than just talks; they were conversations that sparked ideas, challenged conventions, and opened new horizons.
Transformative Experiences
Each day of the retreat was a blend of learning, networking, and hands-on workshops. Our CEO, Ronit Enos, encapsulated our mission perfectly: “We aimed to equip our members to live their most free and profitable lives now.” This retreat was a turning point, transforming dreams into strategic plans for a future filled with freedom and success. Our focus was not just on inspiration but also on tangible results. We dove deep into innovative approaches to business systems and solutions to everyday challenges faced in the salon industry. The exchange of ideas was electric, with each member bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the table. We didn’t just discuss strategies; we created a robust marketing plan for 2024 and designed our perfect calendars, tailor-made for each business’s unique needs.
The Luminaries of Ascend: Our Esteemed Speakers
Ascend was not just a retreat; it was a convergence of minds, a gathering of luminaries in the salon industry. Our lineup of speakers was nothing short of extraordinary, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.
Andrea Hoffer: Innovative Force Behind aha! Talent Experts
Andrea Hoffer, known as the innovative force behind aha! Talent Experts, led a groundbreaking session on AI in hiring. Her insights into modern recruitment strategies and the application of AI in the hiring process brought a new level of clarity and efficiency to salon staffing.
Andrew Carruthers: CEO Mindset Expert & Founder of The Journeyist
Andrew Carruthers, celebrated as the CEO Mindset Expert and Founder of The Journeyist, shared his profound knowledge on authentic communication and leadership. His expertise in fostering a CEO mindset among salon professionals was a highlight of the retreat, offering attendees invaluable strategies for personal and professional growth.
Chris Baran: Redken Global Artistic Director & Award-Winning Educator
Chris Baran, the Redken Global Artistic Director and an Award-Winning Educator, spoke on “Turn Your New Hire Crash into Cash,” focusing on maximizing the potential of new team members and transforming training into a profitable venture.
Hannah Milojevich: Salon Cadence Head Mentor
Hannah Milojevich, the Salon Cadence Head Mentor, took a deep dive into the Salon Cadence method, focusing on numbers competency. Her session was transformative, equipping attendees with the skills to manage financial data effectively for business growth.
Jay Williams: Business Communications Expert & Founder of JWCO
Jay Williams, renowned as a Business Communications Expert and the Founder of JWCO, brought his exceptional insights to the stage with his session on “Coaching Based Leadership.” His unique approach to leadership in the salon industry emphasized the importance of effective communication and collaborative team dynamics.
LaShawne Holland: Wealth Coach, Bestselling Author & Investor
LaShawne Holland, a celebrated Wealth Coach, Bestselling Author, and Investor, presented “Become a Money Magnet,” sharing strategies for financial growth and wealth management in the salon industry.
Leon Alexander: President of Eurisko
Leon Alexander, the President of Eurisko, brought his extensive knowledge in salon technology to the retreat. His expertise in the field was instrumental in helping salon professionals understand and integrate the latest technological advancements into their businesses.
Liat Nadler: Wall Street Journal #1 Best Seller Co-author & Founder of Fabulous Healing Nutrition and Wellness
Liat Nadler, a Wall Street Journal #1 Best Seller Co-author and Founder of Fabulous Healing Nutrition and Wellness, offered her unique insights on “Supercharge Your Success,” focusing on personal and professional growth strategies.
Llacey Simmons: Business Owner, Entrepreneur, and Salon Cadence Marketing & Copywriting Expert
Llacey Simmons, a versatile Business Owner, Entrepreneur, and Salon Cadence Marketing & Copywriting Expert, shared her expertise on salon technology and AI in business. Her session opened new avenues for innovation and technological advancement in the salon industry.
Lucas Renfroe: SEO and Marketing Expert & Partner of Salon.Marketing
Lucas Renfroe, an SEO and Marketing Expert and a Partner of Salon.Marketing, presented “Build Your 2024 Marketing Plan.” His session provided innovative digital marketing strategies, essential for salon owners looking to enhance their online presence and reach.
Wendi Freeman: Founder and CEO of Be Bright Events
Wendi Freeman, the Founder and CEO of Be Bright Events, emphasized the power of live events in community building. Her session highlighted the significance of creating engaging experiences for clients and the salon community.
A Big Thank You to Our Partners
We were fortunate to have the support of Hotheads and Salon.Marketing, whose contributions were vital in amplifying the impact of Ascend. Hotheads’ innovative approach to hair products and education, along with Salon.Marketing’s strategic digital marketing expertise, added immense value to our retreat.
A Sunset of Intentions
Our journey culminated on the beach, with a breathtaking sunset as our backdrop. This wasn’t just a picturesque moment; it was a deeply symbolic one. Led by one of our incredible Warriors, we each set our intentions, not just for the year ahead but for our continued journey of growth and success. It was a moment of reflection, of gratitude, and of looking forward to the future with hope and determination.
The Road Ahead
As we look back on Ascend, it’s clear that this was more than just a retreat; it was a transformative experience that has left an indelible mark on each of us. We’ve not only grown as professionals but also as a community. We’re excited for what the future holds and confident that with the foundations laid at Ascend, the sky is the limit for each Salon Cadence member. As we look towards the future, Nicole Baldwin, our Communications Director, aptly states, “Ascend was an inspiring blend of expertise and passion.” The stage is set for our first public event in 2024, and we’re brimming with excitement about what’s to come.
Heartfelt Thanks to Our Community
As we move forward, we carry the knowledge that we are grounded in a purpose that transcends individual goals. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated, shared, and grew with us at Ascend 2023.
Continuing the Momentum
The conclusion of Ascend is just the beginning. Salon Cadence is committed to hosting more such events, each designed to support and uplift the professionals in our vibrant industry.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, contributed, and shared in this extraordinary experience. Your passion and willingness to grow make our community truly special. Here’s to ascending together to new heights of success and fulfillment!
Stay connected for more updates and inspiring stories, and get ready for Ascend 2024 – a new chapter in our collective journey towards success and fulfillment.
