IBS New York: A Visitor’s Handbook

The first time I walked into IBS New York, I felt completely lost.

The aisles stretched endlessly. Booths were packed with brands pitching their latest products. Conversations buzzed in every direction. I had a plan, but within minutes, it felt useless.

I know what it’s like to invest time and money into an event, only to wonder: Is this worth it?

I’ve been in the beauty business for years. Sourcing, selling, and building relationships. I’ve learned which events bring real opportunities and which ones are just hype.

IBS New York? If you know how to approach it, it can open real opportunities for your business.

This guide will show you exactly what to expect. You’ll get a step-by-step plan to navigate the event, meet the right people, and decide if this show will help grow your business.

By the end, you’ll know if IBS New York 2025 is the right event for you, and how to make the most of it.

Let’s start!

1. Key Event Details

IBS New York 2025 is set for March 23-25, 2025, at the Javits Convention Center in New York City. It’s one of the biggest beauty trade shows in the U.S., bringing together top brands, industry experts, and professionals looking to grow their businesses.

If you work in the beauty industry, this event is for you.

Hair professionals, brand owners, salon owners, hairstylists, and beauty entrepreneurs will all find valuable opportunities here.

Here’s what you can expect:

• 400+ exhibitors showcasing hair tools, extensions, and salon products.
• Live demonstrations featuring the latest techniques and product innovations.
• Educational workshops led by industry experts.

This event is a chance to see products up close, test them, and speak directly with suppliers. You can ask questions, compare options, and build relationships that could benefit your business long-term.

Registration & Ticket Information

Getting your ticket is simple. Here’s how to register:

• Visit the official IBS New York website.
• Select your ticket type.
• Fill in your business details.
• Complete payment.
• Check your email for confirmation.

Ticket options:

• Early-bird rates: Discounted pricing for those who register in advance.
• General admission: Standard entry for the full event.
• VIP passes (if available): May include priority seating, private networking, or exclusive classes.

All tickets include:

• Access to the exhibition floor.
• Entry to free classes and stage demonstrations.
• VIP perks (if applicable).

Event Schedule

IBS New York 2025 is packed with sessions that can help grow your hair extension business. Here’s a breakdown of key events and areas to focus on:

Must-See Sections

• Hair Extension Brands & Suppliers: Meet manufacturers and suppliers to explore new products and partnerships.
• Salon Tools & Professional Styling Products: Discover the latest tools and products to enhance your services.
• Business Growth Workshops: Attend sessions on marketing, branding, and sales strategies to expand your business.

To find hair extension-related booths, consult the exhibitor directory on the IBS New York website before the event. This will help you plan your visit and ensure you connect with relevant exhibitors.

By focusing on these sessions and sections, you can maximize your experience at IBS New York 2025 and uncover valuable opportunities for your hair extension business.

2. How to Prepare for IBS New York 2025

Attending IBS New York is an investment in your business. Whether you’re looking for new suppliers, better pricing, or fresh techniques, preparation is key.

A little planning can make the difference between a productive visit and an overwhelming one.

Plan Your Schedule in Advance

Before you step into the Javits Convention Center, take time to review the official event schedule. Highlight the sessions, exhibitors, and workshops that align with your business goals.

Ask yourself:

• Are you looking for new suppliers?
• Do you want to learn advanced techniques?
• Is networking with industry professionals your priority?

Once you’re clear on your goals, create a personalized agenda. This will help you stay focused and avoid wasting time wandering the aisles.

Packing Essentials & Dress Code

Long days at a trade show mean comfort matters.

• Wear comfortable shoes. The exhibit hall is massive, and you’ll be walking all day.
• Dress professionally. You never know when you’ll meet a potential supplier or business partner.
• Bring business cards. Having plenty on hand makes networking easier.
• Carry a notebook or digital planner. Jot down key contacts, product details, and pricing info.

If you have promotional materials such as flyers, samples, or catalogs, bring them along, especially if you’re introducing your own brand.

3. Making the Most of Your Visit on Event Day

Attending IBS New York is more than just showing up.

To get the most value, you need a plan. With hundreds of exhibitors, live demos, and networking opportunities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. A little preparation will help you stay focused and make real business connections.

Here’s how to make your visit as productive as possible.

Planning Your Schedule

IBS New York is a fast-paced event.

Without a plan, you’ll waste time wandering and miss key opportunities.

How to Prioritize Your Time at the Event

Start by creating a must-see list of exhibitors.

If you’re looking for hair extension suppliers, styling tools, or salon products, check the exhibitor directory before the event. Highlight the booths that align with your business goals.

Schedule breaks.

It’s tempting to go nonstop, but trade show fatigue is real. Plan time to sit, recharge, and process what you’ve learned.

Tools to Stay Organized

• Use the event app (if available) to track exhibitors, schedule workshops, and set reminders.
• Keep a notebook or use voice notes on your phone to jot down key takeaways.

A little organization goes a long way.

Effective Networking Strategies

IBS New York is one of the best places to build connections in the beauty industry. But networking takes more than just handing out business cards.

How to approach exhibitors & speakers?

• Have your business cards ready. You never know when you’ll meet a potential supplier or partner.
• Ask about partnership opportunities. Some brands offer special pricing, collaborations, or private-label options.
• Be direct. If you’re interested in bulk orders, ask about minimums, pricing, and lead times.

Event Logistics & Travel Tips

A smooth trip makes for a better experience.

Best Hotels & Accommodations Nearby

Staying close to the Javits Convention Center saves time and energy. Consider booking at:

• YOTEL New York – A modern hotel 5 minutes away from the venue.
• The New Yorker Hotel – A classic choice with easy subway access.
• Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown – Great for those who want business-friendly amenities.

Hotels fill up fast, so book early.

What to Pack for IBS New York 2025

• Comfortable shoes – You’ll be on your feet all day.
• Business cards – A must for networking.
• A tote bag – For samples, brochures, and purchases.
• A portable charger – So your phone doesn’t die mid-day.
• A notepad or digital planner – For jotting down supplier details.

4. Post-Event Strategies: Making the Most of Your Experience

Attending IBS New York is just the beginning.

What you do after the event matters just as much as what you did while you were there. The key is follow-through.

After 3 days of networking, learning, and discovering new products, you’ll have a lot of information to sort through. If you don’t take action, those new connections and insights won’t do much for your business.

Here’s how to make the most of your experience once the event is over.

Follow Up with Contacts & Leads

You probably collected a stack of business cards. Maybe you connected with suppliers, salon owners, or other professionals who could help your business grow.

Don’t let those conversations go cold.

• Follow up within a week. Send a quick email or message to remind them who you are and what you discussed.
• Keep it simple. A short message like “It was great meeting you at IBS New York! I’d love to continue our conversation about
  . Let’s connect soon.” works well.
• Turn connections into business. If you’re interested in a supplier, ask about bulk pricing, shipping times, or sample orders. If you met potential partners, explore ways to collaborate.

A fast follow-up shows professionalism and keeps the momentum going.

Review & Test New Products

IBS New York is packed with product demos, but seeing something in action at a booth isn’t the same as using it in your business.

Before committing to bulk orders:

• Order samples. Many exhibitors offer trial-size products, take advantage of this.
• Test performance. If it’s a hair extension brand, check the quality, durability, and customer feedback. If it’s a tool, see how it holds up in daily use.
• Compare suppliers. You may have met multiple companies offering similar products. Take time to compare pricing, shipping, and customer service before making a decision.

Rushing into a large order without testing could lead to costly mistakes. A little patience now can save you money later.

Implement What You Learned

Maybe you learned a new styling technique. Maybe you picked up marketing strategies from a workshop. Maybe a speaker shared a pricing model that could help your business.

Now’s the time to put that knowledge to work:

• Update your services. If you run a salon, introduce new techniques or treatments your clients will love.
• Adjust your pricing strategy. If you learned about better ways to structure costs, test them out.
• Optimize your e-commerce store. If you sell hair products online, update your listings, improve descriptions, or launch a new promotion based on what you learned.

Small changes can lead to big results over time. The key is taking action.

Conclusion

Opportunities like this don’t come often. IBS New York 2025 is your chance to find top-tier suppliers, connect with industry experts, and grow your business.

If you wait too long, you’ll miss exclusive deals, insider knowledge, and hands-on learning. The brands that plan ahead always come out ahead.

Book your ticket. Create your schedule. Start conversations now.

What’s your biggest goal for IBS New York 2025?

Let’s make it happen together. Contact us today!