Stay Inspired: Keep the ABS Fire Burning All Year Long

Lorrene Conino, President of Cosmetologists Chicago shares insight from this year’s show and gives us all something to look forward to in the years to come.

This is exactly the time of year when I start to slip back into old habits. I don’t know if it’s the same for you, but after an incredible weekend at America’s Beauty Show, I head home full of excitement—with new tools, techniques, and even a few amazing products. I try new things on clients who are perfect for the trends I just learned… and then, slowly, convenience creeps in. I fall back into what’s easy, what’s familiar, and I forget to push forward.

But this year, I’m making a conscious shift.

Let this be the spark to stay inspired. Keep using those new tools. Keep practicing those new tricks. Make them part of your daily habits so that next year, you’re not starting from scratch—you’ll be building on everything you’ve already grown.

Like anything in life, real progress is slow and steady. There’s no single breakthrough moment. It’s about small adjustments—one update, one cut, one technique, one application or cleanup at a time. That’s how lasting growth takes root.

When we stop growing, we risk losing motivation. We get bored. We feel anxious. But, when we stay curious, we stay connected—we stay in the game. That’s when it becomes easy to stay ahead, stay inspired, and stay excited.

America’s Beauty Show 2025 was one of the most inspiring events we’ve ever had—from the award show to the incredible parties, and the new friends we made along the way, but that doesn’t need to end once the weekend is over.

Cosmetologists Chicago

What many don’t realize is that your Cosmetologists Chicago association is here for you all year long. We have committees that keep the energy of the show going well beyond April.

• The Social Committee has been completely reimagined. We’re now planning pop-up events and community moments throughout the year. If you want to stay in the loop or get involved, click here to join or learn more.
• Our Scholarship Committee isn’t just about funding a class anymore. We’re creating experiences with brands, mentors, and industry leaders—offering opportunities to work side by side with the people you admire most. Stay tuned for how to apply and grow through mentorship.

Spring has arrived in Chicagoland, and summer is nearly here, and with it comes fresh energy. Now is the time to stay motivated and break those old habits for good. Let’s keep the momentum alive so that next year, at ABS 2026, you’re not just attending—you’re evolving.

I look forward to seeing you there again—stronger, sharper, and more inspired than ever. —Lorrene Conino, President Cosmetologists Chicago