Corey Passage, Author at Pivot Point International

Highlighting the Beauty of Special Occasion Hair: Intercoiffure, Beyond the Ponytail, and Pivot Point Support Student Passion, Talent and Creativity

New York – September 28, 2025 – The beauty industry came together to celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and the next generation of talent at the 2025 Intercoiffure Student Contest, held during Intercoiffure America | Canada’s annual Fall Atelier in collaboration with Pivot Point International and supported by Beyond the Ponytail, the leading bridal stylist community.

This year’s theme, “Special Occasion Hair,” invited students to share the stories and inspiration behind their looks—showcasing not only their technical mastery but also the personal meaning and artistry that define great beauty professionals.

Launched in 2022, the Intercoiffure Student Contest bridges the gap between beauty education and the professional salon world, celebrating students and educators whose work embodies creativity, excellence, and passion for the craft.

Student Hair Designs on Kennedy Premium Mannequins

Students were tasked with creating looks that best represented their vision of special occasion hair. All designs were created on Pivot Point’s new Kennedy Premium Series Mannequin, ensuring consistency and professional-grade styling for the competition.

Expert Judges

The judging panel featured respected industry leaders:

Jason Russell (@jer9776), Senior Product Experience Manager, Pivot Point International

Angela Cattaneo (@angelabeyondtheponytail), Founder, Beyond the Ponytail

Sonya Dove (@thesonyadove), Artistic Director, Intercoiffure

Their combined expertise ensured that the selected finalists demonstrated not only creativity but also the professional skills required of tomorrow’s outstanding stylists.

“We are thrilled to see the next generation of beauty professionals embrace special occasion hair as part of their creative journey,” said Jason Russell of Pivot Point International. “This contest not only showcases their incredible talents but also highlights the role our industry plays in celebrating life’s most meaningful moments.”

Contest finalists included:

Lindsey Forchione (@lifted.by.lindsey) from Empire Beauty School – Kalamazoo, mentored by instructor Christine Benson.

Angelica Pohle (@angelicapohle.hair) from Paul Mitchell The School – Spokane, mentored by instructor Michael Pendell.

Kailey Howald (@hairbykaileymarie) from The Institute of Beauty and Wellness – Milwaukee, mentored by instructor Amy Lile.

Megan Blythe (@meg_thee_stylist_) from Aveda Institute – Clearwater, mentored by instructor Brandon Pryor.

And The Winner Is…

Drumroll, please!

The grand prize winner was Kianna Anderson (@chicksandhairflips) from Ogle School – Houston, mentored by instructor Alicia B. Peoples. Kianna stood out for her passion, creativity and artistry. She and her instructor received an all-expense-paid trip to New York, where both were honored onstage at the Intercoiffure Fall Atelier.

New Bridal Stylist Research

The award also complements new research conducted by Pivot Point and Beyond the Ponytail. It was designed to benchmark and better understand the bridal stylist community. This groundbreaking white paper, Bridal Stylists Unveiled: Benchmarking and Understanding the Bridal Stylist Community, offers the first in-depth look at the career paths, business models, and educational needs of bridal hair stylists—a rapidly growing, entrepreneurial, and highly specialized segment of the professional beauty industry.

Other Intercoiffure / Pivot Point Activities

Pivot Point also proudly partners with Intercoiffure America | Canada on two prestigious initiatives that celebrate excellence in beauty education. First, the Honor the Teacher program recognizes exceptional beauty school instructors shaping the next generation of professionals. Second, the Leo Passage Educator of the Year Award honors Pivot Point’s visionary founder. Together, these programs spotlight the passion, creativity, and dedication that elevate the art and craft of teaching across our industry.

Sam Villa Accepts Leo Passage Award

To close the evening, Sam Villa—industry icon, educator, and co-founder of Sam Villa®—was honored with the Leo Passage Educator of the Year Award. The honor was presented by Intercoiffure America | Canada in partnership with Pivot Point International.

In a heartfelt acceptance video, Sam Villa reflected on the deeper meaning behind the award:

“Leo was a true visionary, not only in the way he viewed education, but in how he elevated the role of the stylist as both an artist and a professional. I have carried that belief with me throughout my own journey, letting it guide the way I teach, share, and connect with others in this industry. To be honored in this light is deeply humbling, and it’s not something I take lightly. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for allowing me to walk this path and continue the work of lifting our craft higher.⁠⁠”

Sam’s message underscored the lasting impact of Leo Passage’s legacy and the continuing responsibility educators share in shaping the future of beauty.

(Watch Sam Villa’s acceptance video below.)

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About Pivot Point International

Pivot Point International is a global leader in beauty education. They continue to set the standard for innovation in both school and professional learning. Students showcased their creativity using Pivot Point’s new Kennedy Premium Series mannequins, designed to deliver the most realistic educational experience available. In addition, Pivot Point’s collaborative research with Beyond the Ponytail benchmarks and underscores the growing momentum and opportunity within the bridal and specialty styling segment.

About Intercoiffure America/Canada

Intercoiffure is an international organization of elite hairdressers. They represent the highest standards in the beauty profession. Through events like the Fall Atelier and initiatives like the Student Contest, Intercoiffure fosters creativity and innovation among the next generation of beauty professionals.

About Beyond the Ponytail

Beyond the Ponytail is a global digital hair community. They provide hairstylists and consumers with access to the best inspiration and education on the latest trends in all aspects of styling, and are a leader in the bridal beauty industry. Angela Cattaneo, founder, supports wedding hairstylists and makeup artists through mentorship, in-person events and initiatives like the Bridal Artist Connection and Educator Masterclass.

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The Magic of Paris from a Hair Stylist’s POV – OMC Hairworld

by Pivot Point Product Experience Senior Manager, Jason Russell

Paris, the City of Lights… and Hair

How does one go about spending a magical weekend in good ole Paree? Admiring the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, sipping coffee on the Champs-Élysées, or climbing to new heights at the Eiffel Tower? Maybe… 🤔

But I have a better way!

What about packing thousands of hairstylists into an arena filled with the world’s most talented hair artists and watching them fight to the death (not really) for the most prestigious awards in the hair industry at OMC Hairworld?

Sounds magical to me. 🪄

What is OMC Hairworld?

Think about the Olympics’ balance beam, shot put, and archery all combined into one—except for hair. Thousands of contestants visit OMC Hairworld annually to participate in what many call the Hair Olympics. 🏆

No, they’re not literally balancing on beams or throwing discs—but they do have a unique skill set that makes them the best in the world at their craft.

Competition categories include:

Bridal updos
Avant-garde hair
Fantasy creations
Gala styles
Classic barbering
…and more!

These “Hair Olympians” practice all year and spend thousands of dollars to execute the perfect final design. Maybe we should call it Hair Archery. 🎯

Photo courtesy of OMC Hairworld

The Competition Atmosphere

Countdown to Magic

Each day is filled with one competition after another. It’s mesmerizing to see how the most gravity-defying hairstyles are executed in just 30 minutes. ⏰

The announcer’s countdown echoes across the arena in multiple languages—dozens of countries are represented:

5, 4, 3, 2, 1… GO! 🏁

Precision & Pressure

With calculated precision, each competitor leaps into action, aiming for gold. As many as 100 people are competing at once, and you can cut the intensity with a knife.

Spectators hold their breath as the clock winds down…

Photo courtesy of Estetica

“You have 1 minute remaining.”

Sweat pours. Hands shake. The final alterations are made…

5, 4, 3, 2, 1… STOP! 🛑

And suddenly, a collective exhale fills the room.

From Hair to Haute Couture

But it’s not over yet!

For the next three minutes, competitors bring their creations to life with couture fashion:
*rhinestones, crystals, ruffles, jewels—*you name it.

It’s no longer just the Hair Olympics… it’s the Hair Met Gala. 💃

Now it’s in the hands of the judges.

Photo courtesy of American Salon

The Judging & Awards Ceremony

How do judges even begin to choose the world’s best when each design is extraordinary? From one mannequin to the next, it’s truly the crème de la crème.

And then… IT’S TIME!

The bronze goes to… 🥉
The silver goes to… 🥈
And the GOLD goes to… 🥇

The arena erupts. Chants, cheers, and flag-waving fill the air. Even those who didn’t place celebrate the artistry on display.

Photo courtesy of Racked

Unity & Camaraderie

This is more than competition—it’s community.

Teams sing in unison, wave their flags, and cheer for one another. Not everyone wins an individual medal, but everyone shares in the victory of their country’s team. 🌍

The camaraderie is touching. Each competitor knows the sacrifices behind the artistry, and the mutual respect is palpable.

Of course, one question always remains…

How are they going to get those huge trophies home? 😂

My Magical Paris Takeaway

So, did I walk the Champs-Élysées and visit the Eiffel Tower? Yes! 🇫🇷

But the most magical time in Paris was witnessing the passion of hairstylists from around the globe competing at OMC Hairworld.

Where else can you find dozens of countries, thousands of practice hours, countless dollars, and one dream—to be a champion—on full display?

There’s no other place on Earth where the passion for the beauty industry shines brighter. ✨

LEARN MORE ABOUT JASON RUSSELL

👉 Want to see more behind-the-scenes from OMC Hairworld? Follow @omchairworld for exclusive coverage.

Pivot Point: OMC Mannequins Gold Sponsor

We at Pivot Point are extremely proud to be an OMC Mannequins Gold Sponsor of OMC Hairworld. Our founder, Leo Passage, had a passion for competing, and we’re thrilled to keep his legacy alive by participating in major events around the world focused on competitions. As part of our commitment to competitions, we’ve continuously developed top-quality products to ensure that competitors have the best tools to bring their creations to life with our Premium Series, competition-approved mannequins.

Pivot Point Representation at OMC Hairworld

Pivot Point’s mannequin representation at OMC Hairworld 2025 was phenomenal. The introduction of several new Premium mannequins increased the number of competitors using our products. We’re thrilled to share that nearly 30% of competitors in the ladies’ categories competed on our new Premium mannequins, and 80% of competitors in the gents’ categories used our new Premium gents’ mannequins. In total, 57% of all mannequins featured this year were Pivot Point Premium Mannequins. We loved seeing the amazingly talented competitors showcase their artistry on our mannequins.

Witnessing each competitor receive their medal this year was pure joy. We want to thank the hundreds of team members who chose our products and congratulate every medalist! It was a thrill to see 50+ competitors take home bronze, silver, and gold—each showcasing their work on our new premium products. Our love for competition and commitment to developing the highest-quality products—combined with the competitors’ passion and dedication—is a formula for success!

“Competitions are a platform to express creativity.” – Leo Passage, Pivot Point Founder

Resources:

SHOP PREMIUM SERIES COMPETITION MANNEQUINS

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR NEW PREMIUM SERIES MANNEQUINS

EXPLORE OUR VIP PREMIUM SERIES MANNEQUINS

DISCOVER WHAT COMPETITIONS MEAN TO PIVOT POINT

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Closing the Gap in Financial Literacy: Introducing MONEY EDU 3.0 by Qnity for Schools

Financial stress is one of the greatest challenges facing today’s students. Too many graduates lack the skills to manage money effectively, and the consequences are serious: increased anxiety, limited career opportunities, and even leaving the beauty industry altogether.

Qnity for Schools was founded to change this. Built on the belief that financial literacy is not optional—it’s essential, Qnity is dedicated to equipping students with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in life and work. Their mission is simple but powerful: reduce financial stress, empower learners and prepare the next generation for long-term success.

Why MONEY EDU 3.0?

MONEY EDU 3.0 is the latest evolution of Qnity’s groundbreaking financial literacy curriculum—completely reimagined for today’s students. Designed to fit any program length, it allows beauty schools to integrate financial education seamlessly, whether in a 600-hour program or a multi-year degree.

This next-generation solution combines universal core concepts with industry-specific applications for beauty and wellness students, ensuring every learner can connect financial literacy to their career goals.

What’s Inside?

Engaging Micro-Learning: Bite-sized videos designed for maximum impact and attention.
Industry-Specific Relevance: Specialized lessons tailored for cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, massage, nails, and medical aesthetics.
Educator Support: Turnkey resources including lesson plans, facilitator guides, and answer keys for simplified teaching.
Student Impact: Practical skills that translate directly into career readiness, financial confidence, and long-term stability.

The Value for Schools, Educators, and Learners

For school owners and directors, MONEY EDU 3.0 represents a competitive edge—a way to help improve completion rates, help lower student loan default rates, enhance student satisfaction, and offer a solution that meets a critical need. For educators, it provides the tools and flexibility to deliver financial literacy with ease. And for learners, it’s a chance to graduate with confidence, ready to succeed not just in their craft, but in their financial lives.

By integrating financial literacy into your curriculum, you can empower learners to:

Approach their careers with confidence ✅
Build habits that reduce financial stress ✅
Gain practical skills they can apply immediately ✅

With all new videos, activities, quizzes, and reflection prompts, MONEY EDU 3.0 isn’t just a curriculum—it’s part of Qnity’s broader movement to prepare students for the real world by making financial literacy accessible, engaging, and immediately applicable.

Ready to learn more and bring financial literacy to your school?

Explore MONEY EDU 3.0

Join Our Upcoming Webinars

In our upcoming webinar series, discover how Qnity for Schools is addressing this critical need with their MONEY EDU 3.0 curriculum—a modern, engaging approach to financial education that truly prepares learners for what’s next.

WEBINAR 1
Title: Qnity for Schools: Transforming Education Through Financial Literacy
Date: Thursday, October 2
Time: 12:00 p.m. CST

~~REGISTER NOW~~

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WEBINAR 2
Title: MONEY EDU 3.0: A Next-Generation Approach to Student Financial Success
Date: Friday, October 16
Time: 12:00 p.m. CST

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Financial Literacy In Beauty & Wellness

Financial literacy is an essential part of preparing beauty and wellness students for life beyond the classroom. Explore why financial education matters and how it can better support student success in Qnity’s latest white paper.

DOWNLOAD WHITE PAPER

Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

Interested in learning more about our Supplementary Content available on Pivot Point LAB? Click here to see our entire Content Partner library. Complete with catalogs that include business skills, money management, social media marketing, product knowledge and advanced beauty education. Enhance your student’s learning experience with additional education from industry experts!

About Qnity for Schools:

MONEY Edu, created by Qnity, Inc., addresses a critical gap in beauty and wellness education: financial skills and confidence. Too often, students graduate with technical expertise but lack money management knowledge, which impacts career longevity, school funding, and industry perception.

Their simple, flexible program equips schools, students, and instructors with tools to succeed. With the support that parents and admissions value, MONEY Edu prepares graduates to thrive in their craft and with their money. Learn more at https://www.qnityforschools.com/

“As a former CPA, turned salon & spa owner, turned Profit Advisor to top brands for 30+ years, I’ve seen it all. Many of the challenges facing the industry today are a direct result of a lack of financial education and confidence. Together, we can change that by providing students with financial education that honors their passion and creativity. Let’s empower the next generation of beauty and wellness professionals with money skills to match their art and heart.” – Tom Kuhn, Founder/CEO Qnity Inc.

The State of Financial Literacy for Beauty & Wellness Pros

In this white paper, Qnity explores the state of financial literacy in the industry. They looked at prevalent themes of money anxiety, negativity, and confidence levels amongst students. The data surveys over 5000 students enrolled in cosmetology and esthetic programs across 150+ campuses in North America, compared with 1000 responses from professionals.

GET YOUR FREE COPY

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A Legacy of Friendship, Knowledge and Innovation

In the late 1960s, Pivot Point’s founder Leo Passage and his close friend Dietmar Plainer traveled together through Scandinavia, introducing Pivot Point’s innovative educational system to a new audience. Their shared vision and passion for elevating the craft of hairdressing quickly resonated, and soon Pivot Point’s curriculum was accepted in government schools across several Scandinavian countries. This was just the beginning of a partnership built on friendship, mutual respect, and a dedication to education. Today, we are celebrating 50 years of partnership with Hårologi!

The Founding of Hårologi

In 1975, Dietmar Plainer established Hårologi, a company grounded in the same scientific approach that defined Pivot Point. Hårologi focused on teaching hairdressers not only the artistry of styling but also the essential science behind hair and skin health—ensuring professionals could help their clients achieve and maintain beautiful, healthy results. With this foundation, two like-minded companies continued to collaborate, united by their commitment to knowledge, creativity, and the empowerment of professionals.

A Golden Anniversary Celebration

On September 6, 2025, the Hårologi and Pivot Point Scandinavia teams welcomed more than 300 guests to celebrate Hårologi’s 50th anniversary. The afternoon featured engaging look-and-learn presentations by the Pivot Point Scandinavia team, offering fresh inspiration and practical techniques. In the evening, after a gala dinner, international Pivot Point artists Yolly ten Koppel and Joakim Roos captivated the audience with a spectacular presentation of the Transcend trend collection, alongside imaginative fantasy hairstyles that highlighted the artistry and innovation at the heart of Pivot Point’s philosophy.

Honoring a Lifelong Educator

The celebration also marked a bittersweet farewell to Petter Buberg, the former owner of Hårologi. Petter’s journey with Pivot Point began in 1983, when he studied at the Pivot Point school in Chicago. From that moment, he dedicated his career to education, inspiring hairdressers and teachers for over 40 years. His impact has been immeasurable, shaping the future of countless professionals across Scandinavia and beyond. During his farewell speech, Petter left the audience with words that captured the essence of his life’s work:

“Continue to be proud of your knowledge, it is the biggest difference in the relationship with your customers to build your future success.”

Looking Ahead Together

The 50th anniversary of Harologi was more than a milestone; it was a reflection of decades of collaboration, progress, and shared belief in the power of education. As Pivot Point and Hårologi look ahead, this enduring partnership continues to honor the legacies of Leo Passage and Dietmar Plainer, while empowering the next generation of hairdressers with the knowledge, creativity, and confidence to shape their future. Thank you for joining us in celebrating 50 years of partnership with Hårologi!

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Honoring the Past and Celebrating the Future: Leo Passage Scholarship Winners (Spring 2025)

At Pivot Point, we believe education transforms lives. That belief was at the core of our founder, Leo Passage, whose legacy is rooted in creativity, innovation, and the power of sharing knowledge. To carry his vision forward, we proudly partnered with Beauty Changes Lives to present the Leo Passage Scholarships—two opportunities designed to uplift students and educators who are shaping the future of the beauty industry.

We are thrilled to celebrate the Spring 2025 recipients of both the Dare to Lead Student Scholarship and the Pass It On Educator Scholarship.

Dare to Lead Student Scholarship Recipients

The Dare to Lead Student Scholarship awards $7,500 each to two cosmetology or barbering students who embody creativity, leadership, and the drive to innovate. These scholarships support students eager to push boundaries and inspire the next generation of beauty professionals.

We proudly recognize this year’s recipients:

Olivia Bradin
Douglas J Aveda Institute
Royal Oak, MI
@ob.artistry

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Hugo Cifuentes
Aveda Arts & Science Institute
Arlington, VA
@hairaffair_byhc

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Olivia and Hugo have demonstrated not only exceptional artistry but also the leadership qualities that will help shape the future of our industry. Their passion and vision remind us that the next wave of leaders is already here.

Pass It On Educator Scholarship Recipients

The Pass It On Educator Scholarship invests in licensed educators who dedicate themselves to inspiring and developing tomorrow’s professionals. Each award provides $2,500 toward advanced education, ensuring that educators can continue to grow while mentoring others.

This year’s honorees are:

Jennifer Kuhn
Eric Fisher Academy
Wichita, KS
@jfry0408

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Ellysse Clark
Tennessee School of Beauty
Knoxville, TN
@yourhairy.godmother

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Jennifer and Ellysse exemplify what it means to “pass it on.” Their commitment to learning and teaching ensures that future beauty professionals receive not just technical training, but inspiration, guidance, and a model of lifelong growth.

Continuing Leo Passage’s Legacy

The Leo Passage Scholarships are more than financial support—they are a living tribute to Leo’s belief that education empowers individuals and uplifts communities. Through these awards, his spirit of generosity, leadership, and innovation continues to thrive in students and educators alike.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Olivia, Hugo, Jennifer, and Ellysse. Their achievements and dedication represent the very best of what beauty education can offer. They remind us that the future of the industry is in strong, capable hands.

Applications for Fall Scholarships Now Open

Applications for the Fall 2025 scholarships are officially open! Whether you are a student ready to dare to lead or an educator eager to pass it on, this is your opportunity to gain support, grow your career, and help shape the future of beauty.

Learn more and apply here: https://beautychangeslives.org/scholarships-opportunities/

About Beauty Changes Lives:

Beauty Changes Lives is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—not a membership group. BCL is dedicated to uniting the beauty industry in support of the next generation of professionals. Since its founding, the organization has raised more than $8 million to fund scholarships. These programs elevate and advance careers in beauty and wellness.

To date, Beauty Changes Lives has transformed the lives of over 1,500 beauty and wellness professionals—as well as their families and communities—through education and opportunity. The organization facilitates scholarships, mentorship, advanced education, and career resources for individuals pursuing cosmetology, nails, massage, makeup, barbering, and esthetics.

Beauty Changes Lives believes that education empowers, community uplifts, and together we can shape the future of the industry.

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Wellness at the Heart of Beauty Education: A New Era of Learning

Behind every confident beauty professional is a deeply supportive environment—a classroom or salon where emotional safety, personal growth, and technical skills go hand in hand. In today’s demanding beauty world, educators and students alike face burnout, stress, and emotional challenges. The Vitality Project recognizes a core truth: to cultivate thriving beauty professionals, we must nurture their well-being from day one.

About The Vitality Project

Founded by stylist-turned-trauma-informed coach Elizabeth Faye, The Vitality Project offers a turnkey wellness curriculum designed for beauty schools, salons, and spas. With a human-centered philosophy, it integrates intentional wellness education into everyday learning—creating balanced, resilient, and emotionally intelligent future professionals.

Unlike typical wellness add-ons, this program arrives logistics-ready: complete lesson plans, workbooks, facilitator guides, and digital resources that allow seamless integration into existing schedules and workflows.

Why It Matters — For Both Instructors and Students

When wellness becomes foundational, education transforms:

For Students: Emotional regulation tools help them manage stress and self-doubt, promoting retention, creativity, and confidence.
For Instructors: Trauma-informed facilitation and leadership training support them in teaching with empathy—without compromising their own energy.
For Schools and Salons: Embedding wellness elevates institutional culture, encouraging loyalty, inclusivity, and long-term success.

This dual focus ensures that The Vitality Project catalyzes change across the entire educational ecosystem—benefiting both those who teach and those who learn.

Core Components of the Program

What makes The Vitality Project a complete, effective solution:

Holistic Wellness Curriculum: Covers emotional, mental, physical, social, occupational, and spiritual well-being—because well-being is multifaceted.
Educator Resources: Ready-to-use lesson plans, slides, and facilitation guides empower instructors to deliver wellness-centered learning confidently.
Student Engagement Tools: Workbooks and practical exercises help learners build resilience, understand trauma responses, and cultivate emotional intelligence.
Leadership & Trauma-Informed Training: Prepares leaders and educators with the empathy and skills needed to guide safely and effectively.
On-Demand Resource Library: A comprehensive repository ensures ongoing support and inspiration for sustained program success.

The Impact — Why It’s a Game-Changer

How this program transforms outcomes and sets a new standard:

Student Retention & Engagement: Integrating wellness tools can help motivate students to stay, contribute, and learn with curiosity.
Burnout & Turnover Reduction: Educators can feel more supported and energized which can benefit morale, longevity, and instructional quality.
Enhanced Creativity & Connection: A foundation of emotional safety can support creative potential and deeper human connection.
Inclusivity & Hoisted Care: Trauma-aware practices help support students who might otherwise feel overlooked, cultivating a school culture that honors every learner.
Human Skills for a Human Industry: In an increasingly digital world, emotional intelligence, communication, and self-awareness remain differentiators in the beauty profession.

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The Vitality Project transcends curricular enhancement—it’s a cultural shift toward holistic, human-first education in beauty. By empowering both students and instructors with empathy, resilience, and self-care tools, it lays the groundwork for sustained industry transformation.

When wellness is woven into the fabric of learning, we create beauty professionals who are as emotionally strong as they are technically skilled—ready to lead, innovate, and inspire.

Ready to build a sustainable, wellness-centered future in beauty education?

Discover The Vitality Project

Join Our Upcoming Webinars

WEBINAR 1
Date: Thursday, September 18
Time: 12:00 p.m. CST
Topic: Trauma Informed Coaching Skills That Create Impact

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WEBINAR 2
Date: Friday, September 19
Time: 12:00 p.m. CST
Topic: Navigating Classroom Conflict & Mental Health

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Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

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Insights From Career Counselors

Questions about student debt, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on traditional white-collar jobs, the return on investment for a college degree and a focus on career satisfaction have fueled the “career vs. college” conversation.

In 2023, 2024, and again in 2025, the Pivot Point Research Team and Beauty Cast Network (BCN) conducted research at the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Annual Conference. The aim was to understand their interest in promoting vocational education versus traditional college pathways and determine the information and resources that were needed to best promote careers in beauty.

The research highlights their strong interest in beauty careers (hairdressing, barbering, nails, skincare, and massage) as viable and rewarding alternatives to traditional college degrees. It also underscores their need for more information about beauty industry programs to guide their students effectively.

This research can help inform policymakers about the value of beauty as a career and provides affirmation that these careers should be recognized as first-choice options.

2025 White Paper Download

2024 White Paper Download

2023 White Paper Download

About Beauty Cast Network

Beauty Cast Network connects schools, students, and top employers in beauty, barbering, and wellness. Their mission is to help graduates launch successful, sustainable careers.

About Pivot Point Research

The Pivot Point Research team understands industry relationships and trends, delivering actionable, real-world insights that meet your research objectives.

Whether your research is for internal intelligence or to support sales and marketing, we can help you. Knowing that quick turnaround is often a consideration, our industry relationships and experience help us provide the most time-effective solution. Explore all your research options with Pivot Point Research.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH YOU!

Research – Pivot Point International

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New Beauty Industry Research: Bridal Stylists Unveiled

Pivot Point International and Beyond the Ponytail—the leading bridal stylist community—are proud to release a groundbreaking new white paper, Bridal Stylists Unveiled: Benchmarking and Understanding the Bridal Stylist Community.

This first-of-its-kind research dives deep into the career paths, business models, and educational needs of bridal hair stylists—a rapidly growing, entrepreneurial, and highly specialized segment of the professional beauty industry.

Shining a Light on an Underserved Community

Historically underrepresented in industry data, bridal stylists are now receiving the recognition they deserve. With weddings surging in the post-pandemic era and more beauty professionals choosing bridal styling as a full-time career, this research offers critical insights into their goals, challenges, and impact.

From navigating the unique demands of wedding day work to building sustainable, thriving businesses, bridal stylists bring a rare blend of artistry, technical skill, and adaptability.

Insights Straight from the Source

The white paper goes beyond numbers and statistics—it features candid advice and personal stories from working bridal stylists. Readers will gain a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed in this dynamic niche, plus strategies to elevate their craft and business.

Whether you’re an educator, brand leader, or industry advocate, these findings can help you better understand and support this vital segment of the beauty community. For stylists already in—or considering—the bridal world, it’s an invaluable benchmark for growth and a source of fresh inspiration.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL WHITE PAPER

Research Launch Coincides with Premium Series Mannequin Debut

The release of Bridal Stylists Unveiled aligns with another milestone: the launch of Pivot Point’s Premium Series Mannequins—ideal for competition, special occasion, and bridal styling. These mannequins are currently featured in the Intercoiffure Student Contest.

Every hairstylist deserves a mannequin that matches the artistry they bring to their craft. That’s why we created the Premium Series mannequins—more than tools, they’re partners in creativity. Whether you’re behind the chair, producing content, or mastering new techniques, their lifelike density and versatile hair let you bring any vision to life. From everyday salon styles to bold color transformations, these mannequins deliver the performance you need to create the looks clients dream of—while taking your craft to the next level.

EXPLORE THE NEW PREMIUM SERIES MANNEQUINS

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Beyond the Ponytail is a vibrant digital community founded by bridal hair expert Angela Cattaneo to celebrate the artistry and passion of hairstylists around the world. Inspired by her own journey of recognition and growth, Angela created this platform to empower stylists through education, inspiration, and connection. More than just a showcase, Beyond the Ponytail is a space where like-minded artists come together to share their talents, gain visibility, and uplift one another. With resources from industry leaders, opportunities for collaboration, and a commitment to fostering creativity and innovation, we aim to inspire bridal hairstylists everywhere to dream big, create boldly, and thrive in their craft.

www.beyondtheponytail.com

Angela Cattaneo is a visionary hairstylist, educator, and entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in the hair industry. As the founder of Beyond the Ponytail, BTP Bridal, and the Beyond the Ponytail Styling Awards, she has become a leading force in the bridal beauty world, creating platforms that spotlight talent and foster community among wedding hairstylists. Through nationwide education, mentorship, and the launch of resources like the Bridal Artist Connection and Educator Masterclass, Angela continues to empower stylists with opportunities for growth and meaningful connection. Her dedication to celebrating artistry and elevating the bridal styling profession has solidified her role as an influential leader shaping the future of the industry.

About Pivot Point Research

The Pivot Point Research team understands industry relationships and trends, delivering actionable, real-world insights that meet your research objectives.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH YOU!

Research – Pivot Point International

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Discover Davines: Where Sustainable Beauty Meets Professional Education

The beauty industry is evolving—and today’s students are looking for more than just technique. They want purpose. They want values. And they want to graduate ready to meet the real-world expectations of clients and salons.

That’s where Davines comes in! To bring purposeful, professional education to your classroom.

Available on Pivot Point’s digital learning platform, LAB, the Discover Davines Schools Partner Program offers a complete, salon-ready curriculum that brings together sustainability, creativity and industry-leading education. This content boosts student retention and engagement by using interactive elements and real-world applications.

Why Choose the Discover Davines Program?

Davines is a globally recognized professional beauty brand known for its eco-conscious innovation, B Corp certification and commitment to regenerative practices in beauty. With products and philosophies rooted in sustainability, Davines has long been a favorite of forward-thinking salons around the world.

The Discover Davines curriculum on LAB allows beauty schools to bring this brand experience directly into the classroom—giving students the tools, mindset, and confidence to excel in any salon environment.

Whether you’re already a Davines partner school or new to the brand, this program is an ideal way to integrate meaningful values into everyday cosmetology education.

What Makes This Program Stand Out?

The Discover Davines curriculum is built to meet the demands of today’s learners and tomorrow’s salons. Here’s what sets it apart:

Built for Education Retention: Interactive videos simplify complex techniques and help students absorb essential concepts with ease.
Boosts Student Confidence: With quizzes, workbooks and hands-on activities, students build real product knowledge, understand sustainable practices and apply what they learn in practical ways.
Salon-Relevant Training: The curriculum is designed to prepare students for real-world success—so they enter the industry ready to deliver results and represent a globally respected brand.

What’s Included in the Discover Davines Catalog?

This comprehensive cosmetology education program includes:

Six Structured Catalogs

Introduction to Davines
Davines Product Knowledge
Davines Styling
Davines Cutting
Davines Color
Davines Elevate

Each catalog includes educator-ready materials such as:

Slide presentations
Downloadable workbooks
Engaging student activities
Multiple-choice quizzes

Bonus: Select catalogs now include certificates students can earn upon successful quiz completion, adding another layer of recognition and motivation.

Bring purpose-driven education to your classroom with the Discover Davines Schools Partner Program—only on LAB.

Click here to learn more.

Join Our Upcoming Webinar

Date: Thursday, August 14
Time: 12:00 p.m. CST
Topic: Discover Davines

REGISTER NOW

Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

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Why Shopping Online with Pivot Point Is the Smart Choice for Professionals and Schools Alike

In today’s fast-paced beauty, barbering, and wellness industry, having access to high-quality tools and resources can make all the difference in your craft—and your career. At Pivot Point, we’ve designed an online shopping experience tailored to the needs of aspiring artists, seasoned professionals, and schools alike. Here’s why thousands of customers choose to shop with us online—and why you should too.

Free Shipping

Say goodbye to hidden fees and long waits. With a flat shipping rate of $9.95—or free shipping on orders over $200—you can stock up with confidence. No surprises at checkout—just simple, transparent pricing every time.

Fast Delivery

Even better, our 99% on-time delivery rate via UPS ensures your order gets to you quickly and reliably, so you’re never left waiting on the tools you need. It’s one more way we help you stay focused on your craft—not the logistics.

Safe & Secure

Shopping online with Pivot Point is not only easy—it’s safe. Our secure platform and trusted payment gateways protect your personal information every step of the way. You can shop with peace of mind, knowing your privacy is our priority.

Easy Returns

And if something isn’t quite right? Our simple return process gives you peace of mind and keeps your focus where it belongs: on your growth and success. We’re here to make it right—no stress, no hassle.

Buy Now Pay Later

We understand that building a career comes with big investments. That’s why we offer flexible payment options, so you can get what you need now—and pay at your pace. Whether you’re a student just starting out or a professional upgrading your kit, there’s no need to delay your progress.

Unmatched Quality

Our mannequins are more than just tools—they’re partners in your education. Each one is hand-crafted with 100% human hair and built to withstand intensive practice. From foundational cutting to advanced color work, you’ll get a realistic experience that truly prepares you for the real world.

Ethically Manufactured

As the first and only mannequin company to earn SA8000® certification, we’re committed to ethical manufacturing and fair labor standards. It’s a promise that extends beyond quality—it reflects our values and respect for every person behind the product.

Sustainable Practices

Plus, our eco-friendly Cap Series and Slip-On Series mannequins are designed to reduce waste—because sustainability should be part of the beauty conversation, too. With every choice, you’re supporting a greener future for the industry.

Textured Hair

Representation matters. Our inclusive mannequin lineup features a wide range of hair textures and curl patterns, giving you the opportunity to practice with authenticity and confidence. Whether it’s coils, curls, or waves, our textured hair mannequins are designed to support inclusivity in education and beyond.

Award-Winning

Want to train like a champion? Our Premium Series mannequins are certified by OMC Hairworld and WorldSkills, giving you the same competitive edge as top talent around the globe. When precision matters, these mannequins deliver—helping you hone your skills and showcase your artistry.

Shop Smart. Buy Confidently. Choose Pivot Point.

With quality, service, ethics, and innovation at our core, shopping online with Pivot Point isn’t just convenient—it’s the professional choice. For over sixty years, we’ve been on a mission to perfect Educational Hair—mannequins, swatches, and beyond. Every product we create is more than a tool—it’s our promise of authenticity, unmatched quality, and social responsibility. Join a global community of beauty pros who trust us to help them Learn Forward.

SHOP NOW!

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2025 Student Contest: Special Occasion Hair Winner

Highlighting the Beauty of Special Occasion Hair: Intercoiffure, Beyond the Ponytail, and Pivot Point Support Student Passion, Talent and Creativity

Student Hair Designs on Kennedy Premium Mannequins

Expert Judges

Contest finalists included:

And The Winner Is…

New Bridal Stylist Research

Other Intercoiffure / Pivot Point Activities

Sam Villa Accepts Leo Passage Award

OMC Hairworld 2025

The Magic of Paris from a Hair Stylist’s POV – OMC Hairworld

What is OMC Hairworld?

The Competition Atmosphere

The Judging & Awards Ceremony

Unity & Camaraderie

My Magical Paris Takeaway

Pivot Point: OMC Mannequins Gold Sponsor

Pivot Point Representation at OMC Hairworld

Resources:

Money by Qnity Partner Spotlight

Closing the Gap in Financial Literacy: Introducing MONEY EDU 3.0 by Qnity for Schools

Why MONEY EDU 3.0?

The Value for Schools, Educators, and Learners

Join Our Upcoming Webinars

Financial Literacy In Beauty & Wellness

Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

About Qnity for Schools:

The State of Financial Literacy for Beauty & Wellness Pros

Celebrating 50 Years of Partnership with Hårologi

A Legacy of Friendship, Knowledge and Innovation

The Founding of Hårologi

A Golden Anniversary Celebration

Honoring a Lifelong Educator

Looking Ahead Together

Spring 2025 Leo Passage Scholarship Winners

Honoring the Past and Celebrating the Future: Leo Passage Scholarship Winners (Spring 2025)

Dare to Lead Student Scholarship Recipients

Pass It On Educator Scholarship Recipients

Continuing Leo Passage’s Legacy

Applications for Fall Scholarships Now Open

About Beauty Changes Lives:

Vitality Project Partner Spotlight

Wellness at the Heart of Beauty Education: A New Era of Learning

About The Vitality Project

Why It Matters — For Both Instructors and Students

Core Components of the Program

The Impact — Why It’s a Game-Changer

Join Our Upcoming Webinars

Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

Beauty As A Career in 2025

Insights From Career Counselors

About Beauty Cast Network

About Pivot Point Research

Behind the Veil: Bridal Stylists

New Beauty Industry Research: Bridal Stylists Unveiled

Shining a Light on an Underserved Community

Insights Straight from the Source

Research Launch Coincides with Premium Series Mannequin Debut

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About Pivot Point Research

Davines Partner Spotlight

Discover Davines: Where Sustainable Beauty Meets Professional Education

Why Choose the Discover Davines Program?

What Makes This Program Stand Out?

What’s Included in the Discover Davines Catalog?

Join Our Upcoming Webinar

Enhance Beauty School Curricula with Content Partners

Why Shop Online with Pivot Point

Why Shopping Online with Pivot Point Is the Smart Choice for Professionals and Schools Alike

Free Shipping

Fast Delivery

Safe & Secure

Easy Returns

Buy Now Pay Later

Unmatched Quality

Ethically Manufactured

Sustainable Practices

Textured Hair

Award-Winning

Shop Smart. Buy Confidently. Choose Pivot Point.