VC Academy, one of India’s leading professional hair and makeup academies, successfully hosted the latest edition of VC Open House, welcoming internationally acclaimed salon business expert Gary Rom for an exclusive educational experience designed to help salon professionals build stronger, more profitable businesses.
The event brought together salon owners, managers, educators, senior hairstylists, and industry leaders from across India for a day dedicated to leadership, client experience, business growth, and sustainable success. Among the distinguished attendees were celebrity hairstylist Aalim Hakim, Rebecca Samuel of VURVE Salon, and several prominent salon owners and industry professionals.
Unlike conventional hair education events that focus primarily on technical skills, the Gary Rom edition of VC Open House shifted the conversation towards what truly drives long-term success in today’s salon industry—people, culture, leadership, systems, and exceptional client experiences.
With more than four decades of international experience and having educated professionals across over 30 countries, Gary Rom shared practical strategies that attendees could immediately implement within their own businesses. His sessions covered customer care, consultation techniques, creating memorable salon experiences, retailing through value creation, team leadership, staff development, and increasing average client billing through exceptional service.
Curated by celebrity hairstylist and Founder & Creative Director of VC Academy, Vipul Chudasama, VC Open House continues to redefine professional education by creating an environment where open conversations replace traditional classroom learning and meaningful industry dialogue takes centre stage.
“The future of our industry depends not only on better hairdressers but on better business leaders. Technical excellence is essential, but the salons that thrive are those that create outstanding client experiences and strong business systems. Gary Rom brought exactly that perspective to our community,” said Vipul Chudasama, Founder & Creative Director, VC Academy.
Reflecting on his experience, Gary Rom said:
“India holds a very special place in my heart. I first came here nearly 20 years ago for an industry event, and returning to India through VC Academy has been an incredible experience. It is an amazing country with amazing people. What has always stood out to me is the Indian salon community—their hunger to learn, determination to succeed, and passion for the craft remain just as strong today as they were two decades ago.
Having travelled and educated professionals across the world, I can honestly say I have never encountered a community that puts so much heart and soul into this industry. The hospitality at VC Open House was exceptional. It truly felt like home. Vipul is more than a colleague; he is my brother and a dear friend whom I deeply value and respect.”
— Gary Rom, International Salon Business Expert
Throughout the event, participants engaged in interactive discussions, practical business exercises, and real-world case studies, gaining valuable insights into leadership, customer psychology, retail performance, team development, and long-term business sustainability. The intimate format encouraged meaningful conversations between Gary Rom and attendees, allowing salon professionals to discuss real business challenges and receive personalised guidance.
The event reflects VC Academy’s ongoing commitment to elevating India’s salon industry beyond technical education by introducing globally respected educators who inspire innovation, collaboration, leadership, and business excellence.
The next edition of VC Open House is scheduled to take place on 16 November 2026.
