Liza Rapay, VP and Head of Cosmoprof North America, is a pro at taking on new challenges. Now, a few years after steering the launch of Cosmoprof Miami, she is headed for a 3-day annual extravaganza in Manhattan, dubbed the ‘Fashion Week for Beauty.’ Here, Rapay tells Beauty Packaging that her new venture on Cosmoprof’s behalf—Beauty New York (BNY)—”will be the most-anticipated annual flagship beauty event and the first of its kind to connect industry leaders and consumers for a 3-day celebration of beauty.” Find out how you can be part of the experience that will take place on October 16–18.  (www.beautynewyork.com) 

Jamie Matusow: For those just hearing about Beauty New York, how would you describe the event in a sentence or two? 

Liza Rapay: Beauty New York is a celebration of beauty, our love letter to the industry. It will be the most-anticipated annual flagship beauty event and the first of its kind to connect industry leaders and consumers. Drawing inspiration from the beauty industry’s roots in New York City, the event will be hosted at the iconic venues Hall des Lumières and the World Trade Center Oculus. 

JM: What sets BNY apart from other beauty industry events?

LR: We are bridging two worlds – industry and consumer.  We will spotlight emerging brands alongside global players, elevate voices shaping the future, and bring beauty to life in a way that’s immersive, diverse, and relevant.

JM: What kind of energy can attendees expect at the World Trade Center Oculus?

LR: This location is one of the most iconic in NYC, a transportation hub, a public gathering place, and a stunning architectural landmark. For two days, it will be transformed with interactive “brand moments,” hands-on masterclasses, and experiences designed to surprise and delight. It will be electric— beauty lovers, creators, and the industry all in one place—connecting, discovering, and making magic together.

JM: What audience is targeted for the Impact Awards and Launch Party at Hall des Lumieres? 

LR: The Impact Awards and Launch Party event will draw the people shaping beauty today and tomorrow. It’s where beauty’s most influential leaders, creatives, media, and founders gather to celebrate the opening of Beauty New York. The Impact Awards honor those pushing boundaries—brands, individuals, and initiatives making a measurable difference through innovation, inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement. 

JM: What do you hope attendees will walk away with after experiencing Beauty New York?

LR: I want people to leave feeling inspired, connected, and seen. Whether you’re in the industry or simply a beauty enthusiast, you’ll know you’ve been a part of something bigger: the evolution of beauty itself.

More info: www.beautynewyork.com 

About Liza Rapay

Liza Rapay, VP and Head of Cosmoprof North America, and Founder of Beauty New York, is a visionary beauty industry executive with over two decades of global experience across brand building, business strategy, and cultural leadership. She began her career in book publishing at Random House, then spent nearly 15 years at The Estée Lauder Companies, shaping the growth and positioning of Clinique, before taking the helm of Cosmoprof North America in 2019.