Story 1: TURNING A TOMBOY INTO A LADY

From Cara’s Perspective…

When I was chosen to be Cerissa and Adrienne’s makeover model all I could think was that it sounded like it would be fun to have a little change.  I always liked to change my look a little sometimes, but boy I didn’t know what I was in for!
I was going through some tough times (boy issues of course, haha) and a makeover was definitely what I needed. I expected, and would have been thankful enough for, just a haircut. But they did a complete amazing overhaul! I mean, just look at the pictures! I barely even recognize myself!  The whole day was sooo much fun. Both stylists and I had a blast laughing all day and being stoked as we saw the amazing transformation happen. Who woulda thought just a simple chin waxing would make such a difference?? hahahaha.  The airbrush make up made me look so flawless and it’s amazing how you barely feel it on your face. With the cut, color, and extensions I really felt like a celebrity, or at least a barbie doll. When we walked around Main St after to get a bite to eat I got a ton of compliments. It was the boost of confidence I needed for sure.   Thanks to Cerissa’s amazing wardrobe we went to town playing dress up. It was so much fun to be with two girls with such a passion for what they do. I didn’t think I could pose in front of a camera, but they made me feel so comfortable because we were having so much fun, and I knew they made me look gorgeous!  Ever since I got this makeover I’ve had way more confidence. And with the tips the girls gave me on how to keep up my new look I feel just that much more beautiful every day. The best part is the girls didn’t try to change me into something I wasn’t. I really felt like they tapped into another side of me that I was just clueless on how to bring out. All the girls at Meleesa The Salon are great at sensing what your style is and how to work with what you have to make you look great, and have your look just be an extension of yourself.   Being treated like a queen for a day, and realizing my full potential with how I look, and especially the boost in confidence I got, will be something that will stay with me forever. I’ll always be grateful for that day! And I’m reminded every day when I look in the mirror! Thanks so much you guys!

Story 2: The Challenge  REMAKING OF A WEDDING DAY

Ann was soon to be a bride and just wasn’t living up to the image she pictured herself as on her “perfect day”.  After years of struggling with her weight, Ann recently became a new mom.  After applying for the competition, we met her at the shop and instantly fell in love with her.  We saw the beauty in her and wanted Ann to see it and feel it too!  After a couple consultations, our “beauty brains” came together and set to transform this soon to be made-over bride.  Ann had already begun by shedding off 60 pounds!  WAY TO GO!!!  We decided to go Vintage with a classic old Hollywood glamour.  YES WE DID!!!  Starting with changing her brunette locks and dark roots into a skin complimenting copper brown with accent rust highlights.  After cutting off 6 inches, we gave her side-swept bangs, soft natural looking layers that made her flow with movement and grace.  We did a beautiful, chic, up-do with a smooth retro feel.  Celebrity makeup artist, Kim Borio, joined us to create the perfect, true Hollywood glam.
Kim airbrushed the foundation and applied gorgeous eyelashes.  Defining her lips with a Vintage red lipstick finished the look.  Viola!  A star was born!

From Ann’s Perspective….

I was just browsing around craiglist at some beauty ads. I came along the posting for the makeover and thought I’d call just for fun. I was sure that the salon had already picked someone. On Monday morning I got a call from Meleesa the salon asking me to come in for a fifteen min consultation.
When I came in, I got the most peaceful relaxed vibe from the salon. I’ve never seen so many happy clients. Everyone seemed like they were at home among friends. I answered some questions for Meleesa, as I sat on a comfortable couch. It was so nice to get offered a refreshment in a real glass. She was the sweetest girl, so friendly and attentive. She has the kindest aura.
Then,Meleesa took a picture of me, and I’ll never forget, she asked me if I dyed my hair from a box. AHHHH!! That’s when I knew I really needed a makeover, for real. (I didn’t color my hair from a box by the way.) She said to grow out my eye brows and that she’d call me the next Wed. we were on vacation in San Diego for a few days, and she called me right when she said she would. She told me I was chosen and I was so excited and giddy. I was skipping all the way down the hall in the Hotel Del Coronado.
When I got back, I came in and unfortunately Meleesa was sick with fever at home, so I got to meet with Jaime (quite possibly the cutest girl in the world.) She was also so nice.

I came in for my hair. Both girls were so friendly and knowledgeable. They really worked well together and had a lot of fun as they worked. They really were sweet and kind. They even got me the best baby bean and cheese burrito from down the street. They really respected my only wish of not cutting my hair too short. Meleesa cut it a lot shorter than I would have ever asked for on my own, but I love it!!And the color, I never would have picked either, I usually go with blonder shades. But I love it also!! I’ve gotten so many compliments this last week. I had such a good experience. It was a lot of fun. The makeup artist, Kim, was so encouraging and professional. She was so kind with her words. She works with a lot of rich and famous people and she treated me so well. I’ve heard many people say that it’s what’s on the inside that counts. But when I heard it from Kim’s mouth, I really believed it. She works with some of the “most beautiful” people in the entertainment industry and she really made me feel like I was as worthy as any of them. She said she really doesn’t care if people are wearing a five dollar outfit or a five thousand dollar outfit. Photo shop can fix a lot. Your attitude makes you beautiful.
I don’t really want to turn this into everything Kim said. But she would be a great motivational speaker.
It’s obvious she is already a fabulous make-up artist.
Jim,the photographer was so nice to me, he kept me laughing and was very encouraging. I know he works with beautiful people, but took great care and time, with helping me as well. He was so nice to show up,even after his car broke down. He was so apologetic and sincere. He has a lovely studio and gallery. Gorgeous pictures everywhere!!!

It was my privilege to work with all four, Meleesa, Jaime, Kim, and Jim.

P.s. I don’t remember the girls name at the bridal shop, but she was very kind and helpful.