Honoring Black Beauty Innovators at the 2026 Bronner Bros. Beauty Icon Awards
The 2026 Bronner Bros. Beauty Icon Awards is set to take place on October 10, 2026, at the Riverside EpiCenter in Atlanta, Georgia, presenting a significant gathering of influential figures in the realms of beauty, business, artistry, and innovation. This year's event is themed 'Midnight Bloom,' symbolizing the often unrecognized years of dedication, creativity, and perseverance that have led to the flourishing impact of Black beauty in various sectors.
Among the honorees are notable personalities such as Tokyo Stylez, a celebrated hairstylist and entrepreneur; and Lisa Price, the founder of Carol's Daughter, both of whom have made incredible strides within the beauty industry. Also recognized will be the founder of Braided New York, Xia Charles; acclaimed photographer and director Derek Blanks; and Olamide Olowe, the founder of Topicals, a beauty brand that has garnered attention for its skincare innovations. Additionally, Cornell McBride Sr., the pioneering founder of Design Essentials, and Germaine Bolds-Leftridge will also receive accolades for their contributions.
The awards evening aims to honor not just individual achievements but also the collective cultural and economic influence exerted by Black beauty professionals over the years. It is a celebration that spotlights not only personal successes but also highlights the impact of institutions like Spelman College, which will be recognized for its pioneering Cosmetic Science Program—an initiative that has expanded opportunities for students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This recognition emphasizes the essential linkage between current beauty innovators and the future leaders of the industry.
Kelly Keith, the executive producer of the Beauty Icon Awards, stated, "Black beauty has never been simply about how we look. It is innovation, entrepreneurship, artistry, identity, and culture." The event seeks to create a potent blend of legacy acknowledgment and future possibility, showcasing the ways in which past influences can inspire the next generation of beauty entrepreneurs and artists. Invited guests for the awards ceremony will include beauty professionals, emerging artists, cultural tastemakers, and representatives from educational institutions—providing a broad spectrum of insight into the industry.
In a noteworthy alliance, VIVACÉ by KISS has returned as the Title Partner for the awards, reflecting its commitment to nurturing emerging talent and bridging the gap between legacy and innovation. Ivan Chae, the Vice President of KISS Beauty Group, expressed that support for the awards is about more than just recognition; it's about investing in the future of beauty.
One of the highlights of the evening will be the BB x VIVACÉ by KISS presents VIVATRESS™ Student Summit. This event will welcome approximately 400 students for an immersive experience designed to expose them to the diverse careers and creative opportunities available within the beauty industry. Workshops and competitions, including the Fantasy Braid Competition sponsored by VIVACÉ, will engage young talent and showcase their creativity.
Overall, the 2026 Bronner Bros. Beauty Icon Awards promises an evening filled with honor, celebration, and a vision for the future—a future where Black beauty continues to blossom and influence not just the beauty industry but also broader cultural dialogues. This forward-looking ethos will resonate with both attendees and honorees alike as they gather to celebrate achievements both past and present, fostering inspiration for what is to come.
Event Details:
Tickets for this prestigious award ceremony are available for purchase on BronnerBros.com. Media representatives interested in covering the event may apply for credentials through the specified channels.
Among the honorees are notable personalities such as Tokyo Stylez, a celebrated hairstylist and entrepreneur; and Lisa Price, the founder of Carol's Daughter, both of whom have made incredible strides within the beauty industry. Also recognized will be the founder of Braided New York, Xia Charles; acclaimed photographer and director Derek Blanks; and Olamide Olowe, the founder of Topicals, a beauty brand that has garnered attention for its skincare innovations. Additionally, Cornell McBride Sr., the pioneering founder of Design Essentials, and Germaine Bolds-Leftridge will also receive accolades for their contributions.
The awards evening aims to honor not just individual achievements but also the collective cultural and economic influence exerted by Black beauty professionals over the years. It is a celebration that spotlights not only personal successes but also highlights the impact of institutions like Spelman College, which will be recognized for its pioneering Cosmetic Science Program—an initiative that has expanded opportunities for students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This recognition emphasizes the essential linkage between current beauty innovators and the future leaders of the industry.
Kelly Keith, the executive producer of the Beauty Icon Awards, stated, "Black beauty has never been simply about how we look. It is innovation, entrepreneurship, artistry, identity, and culture." The event seeks to create a potent blend of legacy acknowledgment and future possibility, showcasing the ways in which past influences can inspire the next generation of beauty entrepreneurs and artists. Invited guests for the awards ceremony will include beauty professionals, emerging artists, cultural tastemakers, and representatives from educational institutions—providing a broad spectrum of insight into the industry.
In a noteworthy alliance, VIVACÉ by KISS has returned as the Title Partner for the awards, reflecting its commitment to nurturing emerging talent and bridging the gap between legacy and innovation. Ivan Chae, the Vice President of KISS Beauty Group, expressed that support for the awards is about more than just recognition; it's about investing in the future of beauty.
One of the highlights of the evening will be the BB x VIVACÉ by KISS presents VIVATRESS™ Student Summit. This event will welcome approximately 400 students for an immersive experience designed to expose them to the diverse careers and creative opportunities available within the beauty industry. Workshops and competitions, including the Fantasy Braid Competition sponsored by VIVACÉ, will engage young talent and showcase their creativity.
Overall, the 2026 Bronner Bros. Beauty Icon Awards promises an evening filled with honor, celebration, and a vision for the future—a future where Black beauty continues to blossom and influence not just the beauty industry but also broader cultural dialogues. This forward-looking ethos will resonate with both attendees and honorees alike as they gather to celebrate achievements both past and present, fostering inspiration for what is to come.
Event Details:
- - Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026
- - Location: Riverside EpiCenter, Atlanta, Georgia
- - VIP Reception & Red Carpet: 5:30 PM
- - Main Event Begins: 7:30 PM
- - Dress Code: Black Tie
Tickets for this prestigious award ceremony are available for purchase on BronnerBros.com. Media representatives interested in covering the event may apply for credentials through the specified channels.
Topics People & Culture）
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