Theme Reveal for the 26th Annual Serious Business Conference: Evolve

We are thrilled to announce the theme for our 26th annual Serious Business conference: Evolve. This year’s theme was revealed during an Instagram Live session with Debra Neill, the visionary founder of Serious Business. 

"The theme comes as a result of paying attention and being awake to what’s going on in the world," Debra shared during the live announcement. "The theme has always been, what does the world need? We each need to be committed to evolving; we need to inspire others to evolve.  

This year’s theme, "Evolve," is not just a concept but a call to action. Debra emphasized the importance of continuous personal and professional development, especially in an industry that holds such a unique position to influence and uplift others, “There’s no business that has the potential to get a message out there and have an impact more than hairdressers.” 

Referencing a powerful quote by Ram Dass, Debra explained the essence of the theme: “I can do nothing for you but work on myself, you can do nothing for me but work on yourself.” This quote encapsulates the spirit of evolution and self-improvement that we aim to foster at this year’s Serious Business. 

During the Instagram Live, Neill took a heartfelt moment to honor her dear friend and the late co-founder of Serious Business, Carol Augusto. Debra shared, "This process in itself has been evolutionary, and I just want to say I miss Carol."  Debra’s tribute underscored the journey that Serious Business represents, reminding everyone of the foundational values and vision that Carol instilled in the conference from its inception. 

Held annually in New Orleans, Serious Business is a transformative event that brings together salon and spa professionals to expose, evoke, and evolve their thinking. Attendees can look forward to an inspiring lineup of speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to challenge and expand their perspectives. 

The conference is more than an event; it's a movement that encourages professionals to embrace change, inspire their clients and colleagues, and commit to their own growth. As Debra aptly put it, " Serious Business is really about growing ourselves and our business. One doesn’t happen without the other." 

Join us in New Orleans for this year's Serious Business conference on January 12th-13th, 2025. For more information and to purchase tickets for the event, please visit seriousbusiness.net/tickets or follow us on Instagram @seriousbusinessconf 

We look forward to seeing you there and evolving together!