More than ever, barbers are finding that the road to success is often paved with self-promotion. In fact, it’s almost impossible for barbers to nab high-end or celebrity clients without attracting thousands if not millions of followers on social and professional media outlets like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Of course, while self-promotion increases exposure, it does not guarantee the national recognition most barbers dream of. In fact, even the federal government admits that barbers and other personal care workers must work hard to rise to the top of their field.
In 2015, the United States Department of Labor reported that although barbers are projected to experience a 10% employment growth trend through 2024, ”workers should expect strong competition for jobs and clients at higher paying salons, of which there are relatively few and for which applicants must compete with a large pool of experienced hairdressers and cosmetologists.”
To help talented barbers find their competitive edge, licensed barber Terrell Brown decided to create the Motor City Barber Expo (MCBE) in Detroit, Michigan. The event is scheduled to take place at Detroit’s Garden Theater from 10am-10pm on May 1st, 2016.
The all-day event will kick off with educational seminars from 10am-2:30pm and will become open to the public starting at 3pm. Barbers will be participating in five competitions including: Best Student Barber, Best Freestyle Design, Fastest Fade, Best Traditional, and Barber Battle Champion. The MCBE will also feature guest educators and judges like Tony Tonsorial, Los Cut-It, Papito Blessedhands, Eric Soto, and Yahia Jaber.
In addition to planned competitions, the MCBE will offer live music, cash bars, vendor tables, and sponsor representatives from:
- Real True Barber
- Al Wissam Clothing Co.
- Paul Mitchell Schools
- Andis Company
- Suavecito, Inc.
- blessed by Papito Blessedhands
- Nojo Kicks
- SouthWest Styles
- Windsor Beauty Supply LLC
- Michigan Barber School
- Faded U Barbershop
More than 800 people are expected to attend, and tickets are priced between $31.74-$72.74. Attendees can either pick up tickets at the door or order them online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/motor-city-barber-expo-tickets-22073117288