THE W BRISBANE:

A Celebratory Spark...

With a theme to re-establish, re-spark and reignite, in early August, Conceptual Brands hosted their annual event CONFAB 2025, a two-day odyssey of inspiration, connection, and innovation at the W Hotel. The event was fun, informative, celebratory and packed full of new learnings that left attendees reinvigorated.

DAY ONE: Erika Kramer’s Full-Day Revelation & Studio 54 Night

The kickoff on Day One was nothing short of spectacular, anchored by Erika Kramer, whose full-day session provided immersive inspiration, techniques, and behind-the-chair wisdom. The energy she injected was tangible—fuel for the creative fire of every stylist in the room. Not to mention mindset mentorship and a road map to business success.

As evening fell, the W transformed into a nostalgic, glittering dance floor: a Studio 54–style extravaganza celebrating 15 phenomenal years of Penny Bebb (co founder of Conceptual Brands) alongside the CB family. Picture mirrored disco balls, pulsating lights, and decades of friendship, creativity, and achievement swirling in rhythm.

DAY TWO: Hosted with Flair by Jarred Stedman

The second day was masterfully MC’d by Offical Media partner, Mocha Group’s General Manager Jarred Stedman, whose presence bridged high energy with polished leadership and fun! The day unfolded with remarkable speakers:

• Dario Cotroneo

• Natalie Ann

• Linda Woodhead, conducting a spirited interview with Sam Jones of Mrs Monico Hair Society—offering rich perspectives on styling, society, and salon artistry. Adding dimension was Sara van Daalen, National Educator & Sales Support Manager, who guided attendees through a visionary “look at products and what’s to come”, teasing future-forward launches and evolving brand aesthetics

The crescendo? A stunning launch of all-new eLearning offerings and a revamped website, led by Conceptual Brands’ Education Manager Hayley Pullyn—a clear signal of their future-forward commitment to accessible, smart education.

In the Spirit of CONFAB

The atmosphere clearly aligned with Conceptual Brands’ values: family-led innovation, artistic excellence, and education-driven empowerment

CONFAB 2025 wasn’t merely an event—it was a statement: Conceptual Brands is rooted in family, elevated through education, and propelled by creativity. It exemplified the brand’s keen understanding that the salon world thrives on both technique and imagination—and that the best artistry is continually evolving.