Event Schedule
Tradeshow Avant-garde
9 - 9:30 a.m.
9:30 - 10 a.m.
10- 10:30 a.m.
10:30 - 11 a.m.
11 - 11:30 a.m.
11:30 a.m. - noon
noon - 12:30 p.m.
12:30 - 1 p.m.
12:50 - 1 p.m.
1 - 1:30 p.m.
1:30 - 2 p.m.
Registration and set-up
Avant-garde registration opens
Work time
9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Live Barbering Nail
Competition 1 - 2 p.m. Competition
2 - 2:30 p.m. Judging, winners announced
2:30 - 3 p.m. Judging, announced
Tradeshow 1 - 5 p.m.
3 - 3:30 p.m.
3:30 - 4 p.m.
4 - 4:30 p.m.
4:30 - 5 p.m.
5 - 5:30 p.m.
Showcase on main stage
Judging, winners announced
Nail Art Bridal Updo
Registration
Opening remarks, Land Acknowledgement Competition
2:30 p.m.
1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Competition 2 - 3 p.m. Judging, winners announced
Judging, winners announced
2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Judging,
1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Judging, winners announced
Judging, winners announced
Meet the Judges
Pam Knutsen
Pam Knutsen’s journey in the beauty industry spans over three remarkable decades, commencing in England where she earned her prestigious City and Guild certification. Armed with a Red Seal journeyperson certificate and a rich background as a former colour educator, Pam has become a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for stylists globally.
Currently, Pam dedicates her passion for hairstyling at International Beauty, where she generously shares her extensive expertise. As a trailblazer, Pam’s commitment to excellence, coupled with her unmatched skill, has not only elevated her own career but has also played a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of countless stylists. Pam Knutsen stands as a true luminary in the world of beauty, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Amy Johnson
With an impressive career spanning over 16 years, Amy Johnson has traversed various roles within the professional beauty industry, showcasing her versatility and expertise. From being a hairstylist and makeup artist to taking on the mantle of brand manager and platform artist, Amy’s journey has been marked by continuous growth and exploration.
Currently stationed as a salon business consultant and educator in western Canada, Amy’s impact extends beyond borders. Her extensive travels across North America, attending conferences and providing education, reflect her dedication to connecting and growing alongside fellow beauty industry professionals. Amy Johnson’s dynamic career trajectory is a testament to her unwavering passion and commitment to the ever-evolving world of beauty.
Karissa Squire
Karissa Squire set her sights high straight out of high school, embarking on a transformative journey in the beauty industry, one which would take her from the heartland to the global stage.
Karissa’s odyssey began with a move to Vancouver, where she enrolled in the renowned Blanche Macdonald Global Makeup Program. In the whirlwind that followed, Karissa found herself at the epicenter of glamour, participating in makeup shoots in iconic cities such as Paris, London, Cannes, and New York. Her artistic touch graced the faces of some of the most beautiful and gracious NHL wives, creating gala looks that reflected both inner and outer beauty.
What truly sets Karissa apart is her almost decade-long expertise in Halloween makeup. From transforming Connor McDavid to Jack Campbell, Cam Talbot, Codi Ceci, Tyson Barrie, and many more, Karissa has become synonymous with creating awe-inspiring and imaginative transformations.
Leah Beeching
Leah graduated from Lakeland College’s hairstyling program in June of 2021. Since then she’s been behind the chair locally in Lloydminster at Untangled Salon. Leah fills her weekdays doing hair and weekends on the farm with her husband. In the summer she books herself solid with grads and weddings where she gets to express her passion for updos! Being a hairstylist, Leah loves expressing her creativity and make people feel beautiful doing it.
Amber Rempel is the owner of Elle Joie Day Spa in St. Walburg, SK. She is a wife, entrepreneur and serial manifester. Amber has been a registered massage therapist (RMT)for 16 years and a Certified Aesthetician for 14 years. Amber has taken numerous courses to advance her practice and techniques which brings big city vibes to rural Saskatchewan.
Paige Lehmann
Paige Lehmann is a Red Seal journeyperson hairstylist. Her hair career started in 2020 when she studied hairstyling at Lakeland College. She has spent the last few years working in a couple of different salons in Lloydminster and has absolutely loved it. Recently, Paige has taken a break from the salon and ventured out as a travel wedding/ graduation and special event stylist. She has learned that is where she wants to be and is enjoying all of the new people and happy faces she crosses paths with. Paige feels very blessed to be part of these special occasions. She has met many wonderful humans within this industry and is very grateful for the life it has given her and the people she has met in the past few years.
Paige has taken multiple online and in-person updo courses to upgrade her skills. She is excited to use her extensive knowledge and skills on over 20 weddings in the upcoming summer months!
Schae-Ann Smith
Schae-Ann considers herself a hairstylist by trade, a salon owner by (mostly) accident, and an education junkie for life. She lives to learn and a lot of her growth has come from exploration. Schae-Ann has explored every facet of this industry, from working behind the chair to standing on stages, building a salon and mentoring a team of talented individuals.
Schae-Ann’s mission in this industry is to approach everything with passion and purpose. She believes ‘together is better’ and thrives by surrounding herself with driven creatives who strive to life and build one another up. She believes when we all collaborate together, we don’t just create great hair – we make the world a more beautiful place.
Jordy Opper
Jordy Opper grew up in the Lloydminster area. He worked in the oilfield throughout his late teens, 20s and 30s, working with heavy equipment, reclaiming leases and roads. In his early 40s, he worked as a mechanic maintaining industrial engines that run oil wells.
Jordy has three children, two stepsons and a bunch of nieces and nephews. His first haircuts were given to his nephews – buzz cuts. He also invested in clippers to groom his four small dogs.
In 2020, Jordy found himself out of work. He decided to go to barber school and completely change up his career. He studied at MC College, completing period 1 and 2, and began his career as a Red Seal hairstylist. He completed his first barber course at Do or Dye Salon and still works there.
Jordy loves what he does. He never thought he’d be cutting hair for a living and loves interacting with people all day, making them look and feel good when they leave his shop. He is looking forward to continuing to learn and master his craft.
Brooklyn Steward
With over 12 years of experience in the hairstyling industry, Brooklyn brings a wealth of knowledge, precision, and passion to her role as a judge. Having transitioned from working behind the chair to focusing on education and mentorship, she has a keen eye for technique, creativity, and execution. As a dedicated mom of two, she understands the balance of dedication and discipline needed to succeed in the industry. Brooklyn is committed to recognizing and celebrating excellence in hairstyling, ensuring that talent and skill are acknowledged at the highest level.
DJ
Regan Thompson
Prairie Panda is a Canadian DJ known for his highenergy mixes and unique blend of electronic music with a taste of all genres. He hails from the Canadian prairies, leaving an unforgettable experience on the dance floor.
Vendors
• Stylin’ with Deb Permanent Jewelry & More
• Alberta College of Massage Therapy
• Sage & Soul
• Pure Romance
• Bravenly
• Dark Hour Ink
• MK’s Graphix
• Get Your Lashes Done
Sponsor List
