MAKE-OVER CONTEST.
July 6th, 2010 - Posted by Mandy
Calling all real women!
We’re looking for women of all shapes and sizes for an upcoming photo shoot. Curvy or small, boyish or tall, we want to hear why you’d be perfect for the job. If you’re one of the three women selected, you’ll win full haircut and color with your truly, make-up done by an on-set stylist, a photo shoot by Jasmine Photography, a free boot camp session with Jaya Krupp, an hour of free shopping with Reina Style Consulting and a $50 gift card for your Shop Adorn.
To win, leave a comment (please include your full name and email address) on this post telling us why you should be one of the models. Winners will be notified by email, so be sure to leave contact information. All entries are due by August 10th, 2010, and winners will be notified by August 16th.
Own your inner catwalk and show us how it’s done.
HAIRCUT/COLOR MANDY ZELINKA
MAKE UP SHANNIN LOWE
PHOTOS JASMINE PHOTOGRAPHY
July 12th, 2010 at 12:12 pm
I’m going on a lark to enter: I’ve not only never had any modeling experience, but I’ve also NEVER in my life had my hair cut (or colored, or styled) at a salon! My hair is past my waist, I trim it myself, and I keep thinking that I’d love to try on new styles. Would you like to play with my hair – the maiden voyage, as it were? That’s my best shot at why I ought to win the contest.
I’m not sure how I ought to submit photos; I’ll try to email them to y’all.
Cheers
July 12th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
I’d love to win this contest! I think I’d be the perfect model because I’m 43 years old and looking for a change. My daughters are getting older (16 and 13) and I’ve been the same to them for as long as they’ve known me. I’d love to see what else I could be. I’m a business professional that dresses in black because I’m not sure what colors would look good on me. I’d love the chance to mix it up. My style hasn’t changed in quite a few years. I’d love to be given this opportunity. Thank you!
July 12th, 2010 at 12:29 pm
Most often I think women who have recently had a baby usually end up feeling understandably exhausted, unattractive, and really not like themselves. I’d have to say I can relate. Having had a baby three months ago has left me neglecting most things that used to make me feel good about myself. A Mom takes the back seat when it comes to her children. I have always loved fashion and try to keep up with the latest trends, but I’m finding myself lagging behind since becoming a new Mom. I would love to be chosen for this photo shoot make over opportunity and have the chance to unleash my old hip self again. Please pick me before I succumb to mom jeans and a mini van!
July 12th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
Hi
These are gorgeous ! Love the photos.
I am wanting to win a makeover. I am the single mother of 2 teenage daughters and all I have goes to them, one is in college, so you know !! I am of Italian/German decent, 5’8 and 140 lbs. I work for Portland Public Schools and with all the budget issues that Oregon and education have taken, I think I have aquired a few more gray hairs than normal for my age …. oh, and Im 46 !! soon to be 47. People tell me I look about 32 …. must be exercise and a healthy lifestyle, cuz I am too stressed wondering if I am going to have a job every year working for PPS, and if there is enough money in the budget to keep me around …. please pick me !!
July 12th, 2010 at 12:33 pm
This is a story about a 33 year old woman trapped in a body and appearance that doesn’t feel like mine. Four years ago, I married the love of my life. I was in the best shape and health of my life, full of energy, and excited to go back to school for a graduate degree. A year later, I was in the hospital, having surgery to remove a large area of my leg that was labeled “melanoma”. There was a lot of anxiety, lots of worry about the cancer spreading, and lots of stress with a new job and an upcoming grad school enrollment. This September, I will celebrate 3 years cancer-free, and I am now working on keeping myself healthy, following a diagnosis of an auto-immune disorder a year ago. Between illness, stress of school and work, and limited time and energy to work out, I have gained 40 pounds since my wedding day!
In less than 10 months, I’ll be graduating with a degree in occupational therapy. After the last few years of studying, clinical rotations, working to support my schooling, and health concerns, I’m in search of a refreshed look. With my new upcoming career, I need help creating a more professional, yet warm appearance. I don’t have an eye for my own personal style, and I struggle finding the right cut and style of clothes to compliment my body type, especially with the extra weight (that I am now working at losing). I consider myself to have pretty good hair (it’s thick, wavy, long), but it’s at the point where it just hangs…no shape or anything. It’s now pulled back every day. All day.
The past few years have proposed a lot of change and growth for me on the inside. I’d like that growth to be portrayed on the outside as well, but I don’t know how to do it. Do I think I deserve a makeover over other people? No. But I could certainly use one.
July 12th, 2010 at 12:53 pm
I am a single mother of 2 children (4 years old and 1 year old). I’m 5’11″ and curvy. I would love a chance for a makeover, as it would be amazing to update my hair color/style, get pampered and spend some time being girly…I so rarely get a chance to do these kinds of things lately! What a fantastic idea to have a makeover contest…whomever you choose, those 3 girls are lucky and I can’t wait to see the results!
July 12th, 2010 at 12:56 pm
My friend, Jill, said I should enter because I’m sexy. That’s only true sometimes. Mostly I’m frumpy and sitting at my computer. However, since Mandy gave me my luscious red and copper highlighted hair (which I should have been born with, really) my computer never looked so good next to me! I want to pose in a grocery store parking lot. Or do a Madonna-by-the-highway shoot.
July 12th, 2010 at 1:26 pm
I’m a 55 year old woman who’s son is getting married in Mexico next May. It’s not that I look so bad, I just don’t feel that I look as good as I could!! My soon to be daughter in law is gorgeous and I would love to look and feel pretty and fresh for all those wedding photos!! I would love to see if I am truly able to look fabulous!! Thanks and vote for me!! Please
July 12th, 2010 at 1:34 pm
Make me over! Turning the three O this summer, I would like to enter this contest so I can get a fresh new look, I am very gutsy and I am not afraid of change. I moved from the east coast 2 yrs ago with my husband who was shortly deployed to Iraq. While living in the NW I realized that Seattle and Portland have that cool indie artsy stylish attitude that I would like to capture in my new look. I am 5 6, dark semi-wavy short hair, latin background, I consider my self to be thin with curves. This make over would also give me more confidence in my job search.
July 12th, 2010 at 1:59 pm
Makeovers are the perfect way to blend a dramatic CHANGE in emotional life with an encouraging flush of physical beauty, in order to build self-confidence. Sometimes we hit a wall, sometimes we hit a domino effect of walls. At a time where all this stress breaks us down, what better a way to step right up again than with a new look from the best hair and make-up artists!! My head has been given just over a year to heal from brain surgery, and the sections of hair which were shaven have grown nicely. In all this healing time, I have been a bit apprehensive about dipping my head in water and letting others touch my scalp. That time is OVER! Just a couple of weeks ago I ought to have been part of my very own wedding…
Not all things go the way we think they should. But when they don’t, we should be grateful for the talented individuals who will fix us up for “Mr. Right” who is out there somewhere!!!!
July 12th, 2010 at 3:18 pm
What an incredible opportunity for change! and I have been working towards a lot of it in the past year! Just over a year ago, I became single after a 3.5 year relationship. I was so focused on the relationship and trying to fix it and take care of him that I forgot about me. I gained weight, stopped hanging out with people that were dear to me, and just mentally wasn’t a happy person. Last October I decided it was time to change my ways. So, this fall I will start school for the 2nd time. I moved myself, my dog, and my cat in with my wonderful parents and have been busy working on a Nursing Assistant certificate. In September I will start working towards nursing school.
I have been a much happier person and am slowly getting back to who I was before. I still have a lot of work to do with weight loss and working on gaining my confidence back. One of my biggest challenges is how to dress myself so I look and feel good as I go through my weight loss process. PJ’s just don’t always cut it
As I start school, I would love to be able to feel and look confident in the choices I am making and be able to fit into the younger crowd that will be my classmates. I know I am not the first 30 something to go back to school and there are people that could use this makeover probably a bit more than me, but I would still love the opportunity to shine on the outside like I feel I am shining on the inside
July 13th, 2010 at 2:00 pm
[...] Click Here to Enter to Win …. [...]
July 13th, 2010 at 3:45 pm
Let’s see, i’m not great at persuasion, but here it goes: I would love to be chosen for this makeover because, well, it would be a truly awesome experience. I am a 24 year old freelance writer here in Portland but I am also in the midst of a frustrating job search (who isn’t eh?). I have fairly long, blonde hair but it’s… shall we say, the wrong kind of blonde. I can’t afford salon treatments, so I color at home (which is not always cute). I own lots of cutoffs, tanks, and casual clothes, but very few “work appropriate” pieces, which is a problem when you’re going out to interviews. I also tend to look much younger than my age, which is also promblematic for job hunting.
I consider myself to be minimally fashionable (I do write for a local style news site) but would 100% benefit from the help of some professionals. The biggest reason you should choose me? My birthday is on Aug 16, the day you announce the lucky winners, and that would be the greatest bday present ever! And who knows, it might help me avoid my impending quarter-life-crisis:) Cheers!
July 13th, 2010 at 4:08 pm
I want a make over! I’m 3 trimesters Prego and think a baby bump would look awesome in some photos… plus I’d like to show off my new mom-boobs before they disappear! How’s that for curvy!
You know who I am MZ…
July 13th, 2010 at 7:37 pm
Like a lot of women out there it’s time for a change. I’ve just recently started school again (Yay Bachelor #2), work full time, and am starting to compete in triathlons. I have been trying to make an effort to dress for the job I want instead of the one I have but it’s hard working in the construction field. I’m not quite sure what’s too dressy or not dressy enough, though I have gotten better in the last couple months (I think) I’ve always wanted to go short with my hair, but have never had the guts to do it. I would love the opportunity to be a model for a day and see what a new \me\ could be. It would also be nice to get a kick start into doing more exercise, since I have been slacking a bit.
July 13th, 2010 at 11:47 pm
I’m a short and quirky girl who loves her two orange cats (and husband too). Over the years, I’ve lost some of my spunkiness and think that this is the perfect way to get it back. It’s been a stressful year, as I am a new attorney at a non profit providing legal services to low income individuals. I would love to be your girl and have some fun in front of the camera.
July 14th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
Well I am in need of a change, but I guess everyone who leaves a comment is in the same boat! I’m 31 and a mom of 3, and 8 year old and twin, yes I said TWIN, 4 year olds! This fall my babies will be heading off to preschool and I will be trying to reenter the job market after 5 years. I also am the care giver to my grandmother and both of my parents. Needless to say that with everyone else, I have put myself on the backburner and feel like the hip cool trendy person that one occupied this body is now become a tired and hip…yeah right! I’m only 31 and I feel, and usually look, more like I’m 41! I’m ready for a change, to be hip, fun, sassy…and really WOW my hubby!!! I want to get out of the frumpy jeans and sweatshirt, get rid of the boring hair do, and the mommy body and be more of the hot momma that I know is in here some where!
July 14th, 2010 at 3:23 pm
I think this is my 5 or 6th rewrite, I have an interesting story and really really need this but I cant seem to write it out with out dragging it on.
So heres a very, very edited version…
I’m 24 with 2 kids, a boy who just turned 2 last week and a 6 month old little girl.
I’m a curvier girl, 5’8″ tall, I mean come on I was a D cup by 6th grade! Thats a little rediculous lol, and I have always weighed anywere from 180 to 250 over the last 6 years
My kids have different dads, I was married and am in the process of a divorce.
Through out my marriage I gained an extreme amount of weight, which I have now dropped 70 lbs of it in the last 6 months
!
I am with my daughters father who is an amazing man to me and both my children, and he was with me at my biggest right before I became pregant with our daughter.
We unfortuantly did not go through the pregancy together and he did not get to be there when our daughter was born ( we had a mix up on due dates and my husband at the time saw this as an opportunity to mentally break me down so I would not leave)
I am proud that I’m curvy and I’m proud of the weight I have lost and continue to lose, I am proud that I was able to come out to my family and friends about everything wrong that had been going on in my life, which I guess they all knew anyways and were to afraid to say anything. I also am a much happier person and am enjoying this new start.
Mostly though I want my kids to look back on pictures of me and see the drastic before and after and go wow mom you look amazing
I also would like to knock my boyfriends socks off
July 14th, 2010 at 4:34 pm
Well I am not sure how I can compare to the rest of you but I would love the opportunity to be pampered. I am a 27 year old wife and mother of an energetic 4 year old daughter. I am married to a hard working and very busy husband. He works construction and with the state of the economy he is hardly home. We love each other & our little family more then anything and we work very hard to stay connected even when his work seperates us. With that said my husband works out of town 9 times out of 10. I am also a full time student working on getting into nursing school and I never anticipated how much harder it would be to juggle school work with children. Like most of you, I have fallen completely out of touch with fashion and personal style as I had children and I just don’t know how to dress my body anymore. I am not usually one to enter contests but I rarely take time to do anything for myself. If I do get time alone I usually dread spending any money to do something because I know the financial toll that being in school adds to my husband’s load. It would be nice to be able to do it all guilt free!
Anyway, I would absolutely live the opportunity to be made over and I know it will make me happier and a much better looking wife and mother!
July 14th, 2010 at 6:41 pm
Dear moderator, how do I edit my post. I see now there are three glaring errors.
Here’s my same message with the edits.
So many wonderful stories above but I would like to give this a shot.
I am a 32 year old wife, stay-at-home mom and trusty companion to two big dogs. Not at all what I thought I would be doing after nearly two full college degrees.
I was married last year to my dream mate in the land down under before embarking on a week of great white shark diving. My husband is the male version of my adventurous spirit. Unfortunately he works in the middle east. We’ve done the distance relationship for 2.5 years and each time I see him I try to present all the sides of me I want him to learn about. But also explore myself so that I never get bored with me and hopefully he doesn’t either. I’ve been really blonde with pink chunks or turquoise halo (which I LOVED). I’ve had baby-doll bangs and super rich espresso colored strands. I’ve done cat eyes and scarves. I’ve packed lingerie through the Kuwaiti airport that would make any Muslim blush. But I find myself as a new mom to a 3 month old beautiful daughter (I call her our Honeymoon present) and I am at a loss for me. I am losing my sass! I am looking for a new look, something a little less “try for a while” until the next funky stage hits and more of a sexy easy going look.
I’ve already got back to running and have nearly regained my pre-baby body…though, I feel so much more awesome as a mom than I did before. I am hoping to be a role model to other moms in hopes of sharing that life really just gets more amazing after marriage and baby and that with such an amazing life it’s only fair to yourself to look amazing.
July 14th, 2010 at 10:29 pm
I would love to be one of your models! What the Heck?! I’m not attached to anything about my current style or color–hair, clothing…change it all! Please! Sounds like a lot of fun and a day of escape to fantasy land! I’m certainly no runway model…just an average stay-at-home mom of two! Thanks for considering me!
July 15th, 2010 at 9:57 pm
Wow, after reading all the responses I see its going to be a hard decision, but what the heck…why not enter
I too recently just had a beautiful baby 5 weeks ago and feel that a makeover would do wonders to refresh and regenerate myself! While trying to work off this baby weight and get back into shape, I too love fashion but feel that I am outdated. I teach special education and with the stress of the budget cuts as well as taking some unpaid maternity leave, buying new clothes, getting a haircut, ect…is just a luxury that will have to be put on the back burner for now. I would absolutely love love love to get a makeover, it would make my year! Especially the free \do\ from Mandy!
July 16th, 2010 at 4:05 am
What fun! I would love to be picked! Even though I work in fashion (launched a jewelry business last year), I spend most of time working in unglamorous old man PJ’s in front of a dinky laptop and guzzling copious amounts of caffeine. I would love a good excuse to peel my bum away from my to-do list and focus on myself for a while. P.S. I need some glamming up big time, I don’t think senior-citizen chic is coming back anytime soon.
July 16th, 2010 at 8:40 pm
Hi!
I was told about this competition by the hair stylist’s mother and I thought it sounded fun! I love trying new things and so a fun new look would be perfect : ) Anyway about me, I am from New Zealand. Yes Lord of the Rings country! I am here for school and running. I am 22 and love working out, traveling and enjoying life. Never a dull moment. This experience would be another one to cross off my bucket list : )
July 23rd, 2010 at 11:21 am
What an awesome contest! I am a new mom of an 8 month old boy who I absolutely love to death. I work full time and when I have some free time for just me I run. I have done one 1/2 marathon this summer and have Hood to Coast and the Portland Marathon on my calendar as well this year. Between being a full time working mom and training, my sense of style and overall just feeling pretty, have kinda gone by the way side. Comfort has taken over as number one priority over style. Not that I have let myself go but I would like to somewhat “recliam” the girly side of my personality and show my husband that I can look smoken hot in something that hasn’t become victim to my new life.
July 23rd, 2010 at 11:28 am
It’s kind of funny, signing myself up for this contest was not the first thing that came to my mind, because I would love for my daughter Amber to experience this. She is a beautiful outgoing 22 year old young woman, that is still trying to figure out who she is. Amber has always been involved in sports all of her life, so at 22 she understands it’s time to leave the sweats and t-shirts behind. I’m cautious to give her advise because I want her to develop her own sense of style and to become the person she is meant to be.
She’s starting her journey in life, and has recently been interviewing for the Airlines. I feel that being one of the winners of your contest would help her in her journey.
She has beautiful natural curl blond hair that she usually pulls back because of its thickness, and was blessed with beautiful skin. If you were to ask her one part of her body she would like to hide she would definitely say her \cankles\ (ankles)!
Thank you for considering her!
July 23rd, 2010 at 11:31 am
At age 41, this year marks 5 years that I will be cancer free. I don’t feel I should be chosen just because I had breast cancer. But, when you get a potentially life ending disease you look at things in a different light. You really start living the “life is too short for…” And you make sure that you are doing things that feed you, and not doing them because of what others think you should be doing.
My mission that I have chosen to accept is, working with women who are diagnosed with breast cancer.
So, I have began the process of making over my life internally, and would love to bump up my game externally!
Thank you!
Machell
July 23rd, 2010 at 11:40 am
Hi:
I am turning 50 next year and feeling like I have had the same short haircut all my life. To make matters worse, I still don’t really know how to apply make-up. I tend to buy a lot of black and grey because I know how to work with it. It’s time to inject some color into my wardrobe and my life..
I was a stay-at-home mom for almost 10 years and now I am back to work in a creative field. I would like to look as stylish and creative as my (younger) co-workers, while still being true to myself.
July 23rd, 2010 at 11:44 am
I’m starting off on a new life/career as a speaker and workshop leader. Life’s been “interesting” lately with moving from SE Washington and setting up a new household here in the Portland area. I would love to have a new look to go with my new life, but have no idea what to do next.
I moved down to take care of my daughter who was very ill last year and now assist my disabled husband. There just never seems to be time for myself in the 24 hours we all have. What a lift this would be.
Wish me luck!
July 23rd, 2010 at 11:49 am
Sounds like a great contest! Beautiful photos! I love the magenta dress!
July 23rd, 2010 at 11:56 am
Had a baby 5 months ago and since returned to work full time.
My current life does not include time for personal \up-keep\. A hair cut, some make-up, a pedicure, and an early morning run are now memories of a past life.
These days a shower makes me happy. A workout makes me happier.
July 23rd, 2010 at 11:57 am
What a Blessing to all who get to share their stories. So many wonderful women with a varied life story. Thank you to all have shared, we are not alone. My story: I was born with a congenital heart defect and had open heart surgery when I was 4 1/2 years old. I am alive 37 years later. Luckily for me, I do not remember much of the experience, however the surgery has left a very large keloid scar on my chest. As a woman, we tend to put so much focus on how we are preceived in society and with this scar being dead center between my breasts it was a huge obstacale for me growing up. As I’ve gotten older, I have realized the precious gift of a 2nd chance that I was given by those wonderful doctors and that the scar over my heart shows the world that I survived. I would love the opportunity to show others that regardless of what our own “scars” are all beautiful in our own way. Thank you for letting me share my story and should I be one of the lucky chosen I feel that my personal story will be displayed beautifuly in digital art.
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:01 pm
Hello hello!
Reasons to pick me:
~ 40-year old 1st time mother of a 10 month old in desperate need of a haircut and never wear makeup
~ While I’m back to my pre-pregnancy weight, I’m a solid size 12/14
~ I fill out luscious dresses nicely with just a little top-side support
~ I have a killer sashay
~ I’ve got printouts of Mandy’s earlier work in my “someday when I feel like getting fancy with my hair” (even though I never will) folder.
Thanks!
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:01 pm
I found out about your competition on Portland Picks…and I am sooo your girl! Last July I was diagnosed with AML (acute leukemia…cancer of the blood). I was 39, new to town, and have 2 little guys who call me mama. The good news is, with support from family and friends here and from all over the country (and a fabulous hubby), I am in remission and doing well now. HOWEVER, the treatments took their toll, I am now 40, and am in need of some serious help defining the new me. I finally have enough hair to do something with, but it came back MUCH curlier (what to do?) and much gray-er. Plus, my skin has suffered from the effects of chemo and would benefit from a new look (and probably new products…help!). Let’s put my hellish first year in Portland to rest and consider making this one healthy, beautiful, AND stylish. Please pick me!
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:05 pm
A naughty “f” word…
Well, I just turned 40 and feel almost fabulous!
Please unleash my inner diva. Glam me up, pose me as you see fit.
I am your muse, your puppet, your model, I’m it.
Sculpt me, paint me, style me wild –
these freckles, green eyes, long legs go for miles.
Although my feet are too big and the tummy is round,
I need to get off my ass and lose 20 pounds.
I’m a real woman, fabulous and flawed,
no matter what, though, – I AM “the bomb.”
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:13 pm
After having 2 kiddos, ages 2 1/2 and 10mo., I have been working my ass off to reconnect with my body and myself
I love changes and challenges and believe pictures are truely worth 1000 words… I love this idea and believe this experience would be a great way to capture this extraordinary and dynamic time in my life.
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:39 pm
Ah change, change is so powerful, and yet so frightening. I’ve done a lot of internal changing these past few months. I’ve worked on my emotional and spiritual side. I’ve expanded my mind and strengthened my body. I would love an opportunity to enhance my physical beauty too. We women are all beautiful creatures, but sometimes we need an outside expert to fine tune things. I’d love some fine tuning!
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:43 pm
I think this is an awesome opportunity! Recently or shall I say to date (since Oct ’09) I have lost 60lbs. That in itself has boosted my self-confidence. I still have another 20 or so to drop, but the journey from where I started has taught me a lot about who I am.
I would love the opportunity to shine in front of a camera! I feel I fall into the category of a real woman. And I have the curves to prove it.
I am a mother of three and my children are excited about my success. I have a 19, 16 and 11 year old. Recently I overheard my 11 year old telling her friends about how her mother has ‘Skinny Jeans’! She was so proud.
I would the love to be apart of the opportunity to showcase the new me and be pampered for a day! When I look back at old photos I cringe! It’s time to record the new me and erase those old nightmare memories!
Thanks!
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:51 pm
I have lost all my MOJO if I even did have it?!
I need help to get me out of my current state of nothingness. Divorced, single parent and unemployed for over a year. Gained over 20lbs. Haven’t had a real hair cut and color nor mani/pedi in over a year. Real cute, huh?! Yes, house is in foreclosure and debt keeps growing and I see no light at the end of the tunnel. And yes the garbage disposal and dishwasher just broke last night. Ugh! How can I start a new life — be it job, man or whatever if I can’t even get out of my pj’s since I can’t fit into my clothes. And last week allergic reaction (which I have never had) to some food — puffy face, blotched up skin. So, I am something special to look at!
Poor, poor pitiful me. I need a boost!
July 23rd, 2010 at 1:08 pm
Don’t just say the word diversity, LIVE IT! I’m Indian, as in from India Indian, and I think you should make me over so that you can show what can be done with people of color. I need a makeover too, desperately, am bored with my hair, my wardrobe, same makeup. I am short (5′ 2″), little bit overweight right now, so need help all the more! I have only done some modelling in my college days in student shows, but am extroverted, and learn fast.
I will be happy to send photos, if you let me know by email.
Thanks,
Niki Tekchandani
vtekchandani@hotmail.com
July 23rd, 2010 at 1:18 pm
Let’s see – I’m single working mother of 3 children 10, 12 and 14. They will all be in different schools this year. I’m just hoping to maintain my sanity.
I just took the time to check and it has been 15 weeks since I have been to a hair salon. I feel like is running away without me:) I would like a chance for a make over. I have already started by going to a cross-fit gym 3-4 times a week since last October and I have seen changes that I would like to show off with a more trendy style. So, please help me take that next step in being the best 47 yr old working mom I can be!
July 23rd, 2010 at 1:50 pm
I saw this make-over advertised on Portland Picks and thought, \I need to do this!\
I’ve been stuck in \mom and wife mode\ for 20+ years and could really use a kick start to get me more motivated to do things for myself instead of everyone else. I started a new business in February and should get out to market myself and make contacts but I’m not confident enough in my looks (hair, clothes, make-up) to do that. I should exercise more and make healthier food choices but it’s just easier to make things that I know the boys will eat without a fuss and who has time for exercise?!
Really I guess that it just comes down to the fact that after 20 years as a mom and 25 as a wife, I need a little \me time\. Thanks for the opportunity to enter your contest!
July 23rd, 2010 at 2:10 pm
What an incredible opportunity!! I would LOVE to be able to experience the fun you have to offer. I have tried so many hair stylist’s in the portland area and leave disappointed… not sure if it’s how I’m expressing myself and what I want or what the problem is. I’m not really picky… honest!
I own a small business and work from home with two little ones and it’s not often that I get moment to myself. This would be my moment. I would be ever so grateful! Thank you !
July 23rd, 2010 at 2:24 pm
Make me over! Last month I made a major lifestyle and career change to better my health and spirit. I am thirty eight, a single mother, and just setting out on a new journey. I have struggled with health issues for the last few years, and lived with limitations that I’m ready to let go of. I would be grateful for this opportunity to reinforce (for me and my son) that making choices for health and family can be rewarding and exciting. Personally, I would love to see how my internal shifts will manifest externally! It’s hard to find a picture of me where I have a “real” smile or even a smile at all. I have a new found appreciation and love of life. It’s vibrant and I’m ready!
July 23rd, 2010 at 2:53 pm
this would be a wonderful and fun. i work in construction and stuck in a hard hat, boots and jeans all day long. my hair is always in a pony tail and i’m lucky if i don’t have a ridge from the hard hat. being female on a jobsite i try not attract more attention than you already get so make-up is minimal. on the weekends my husband and i have been restoring/ remodeling our home for 2 years straight, so it’s very rare these days that i put on make-up let alone cute shoes or anything close to a dress or skirt. i am 28 and it would be heaven to be girly for a change and get ideas on how to dress professionally, yet not flashy in a male dominated environment.
July 23rd, 2010 at 3:25 pm
Pick me. Wow, I could really need a makeover!
I’m turning 40 this Fall… dun dun DUUUUU.
I am the happy and proud mommy of a beautiful, 9 month old girl. She is the joy of my life! My first two pregnancies were lost to stillbirth (at full term) and a miscarriage. After 2 years of grief and a painful pregnancy I finally feel whole again and I’d like my appearance to reflex that as well. My husband and I are so grateful everyday to have her safely home with us. But the truth is I don’t get much sleep and any time or effort I used to spend on my appearance has flown out the window. My husband always says I’m beautiful but it would be nice to feel it again. It’s the end of July and I still haven’t shaved my legs for summer.
Stats: dress size 16, bra size 38F (how’s that for curves?)
July 23rd, 2010 at 5:09 pm
i was born in 1970 – the grooviest year of all! and that means i’ll be turning the big 4-0 this year!! i have a toddler boy and a newborn baby and i’m ready to reclaim my inner stylista! i used to wear heels everyday (whilst riding a scooter) as a boutique owner in San Francisco. since then, i’ve traded in my heels for flats, silk dresses for t-shirts, and my hair is always a mess tucked under a hat or wrapped up in a headband. it would be so nice to kick off 39 (or enter 40, as the case may be) with a hot new look and outlook. i know i’m meant to be a hot mom – and this will help me get my ball rollin’!! i’m petite (5′ tall) with wild curls and i’m determined to wear a bikini in Hawaii for my 40th b-day.
July 23rd, 2010 at 5:59 pm
Hello…
Lets see, why do I want to win? Well, for tarters I’ll tell you about myself… I’m 27, though I look 17. I’m avrage size, a 12. And I’m 5’4. I always wanted to be a model, but being a size indrifrant to what is considered model size, and being ‘short’, I got shot down…. This could be my, “Ha!. You were wrong!” chance! lol
I’m disabled. I was dignosed with Fibromyalgia at 14. I barely scraped by in high school, actually had to redo my senior year because I missed so much school. Not olny did I miss a lot of school, I lost a lot of so call ‘friends’. I still live at home with my parents. When ever I go in for a job interview, I’m always upfront with them about my disease… And there for I havent had a call back. I’m trying to get disablity, but they don’t believe my disease is really a none working disorder…. Tell that to the places I want to work at!
I LOVE photography. And am trying to get into sell my own photos… One big reason I want to win this so much is… Looking at all my photos, there is never a photo of me! I have tons of photos of everyone else. But there are none of me. I can’t remember when someone has taken a photo of me, let alone a good photo of me… So yeah. This is me. I’d really like to win this. I would get me a opportunity to get out of the house, and have some well needed FUN! Pluse a opportunity to see how real photographers work! lol
So, thank you so much for reading… and picking me?
Betsy
July 23rd, 2010 at 10:16 pm
Hello
It’s hard to say why I would be a good candidate so I’ll just wing it. I’m only 17, I’ll start there, I am a hard worker. I always try to be kind, I volunteer. I have worked since I was 13 at a local coffee shop and bought all my own clothes, hair care, extra food, car insurance since then. I’m at an awkward crossroads point in my life right now somewhere between here and there as I try to figure out what to do. In the fall I go into my senior year of high school, a chemistry class at Reed, and a business class at PSU. I need help remembering to stay true to myself and a confidence boost would be amazing as it is so easy to feel completely lost. My body keeps changing and putting on weight in new areas the curves is mixed with my old muscles and at only 5 foot 3 I am pretty short. I would be a good candidate because I have always tried to help others but I really need some help for myself.
Thank you for your consideration and what a fun idea!
July 23rd, 2010 at 10:59 pm
Firstly, if you were to pick me, you would get to work with some AMAZING hair. I’m not trying to brag. But that’s the name of the game here, so… Honestly, I have received compliments on the color and texture of my hair ever since I can remember, in grocery stores, airports, public restrooms, the principal’s office, you name it. It turns heads. And it is virgin, unscathed, healthy, and ready for anything you have in store!! It also photographs beautifully…
Secondly, I am a mom for the first time to a precocious baby boy. Period. This is quite the journey I am on, one that so many women can relate to. I’m struggling to lose the last 10 pounds of the 50 that I gained during pregnancy. I am 5’9 and used to be 135. My clothes look, well, funny, and I have fallen behind the times; I very much need your help in the fashion arena!!
Thirdly, I MISS THE OLD ME and I want you to help inspire and create ways for a NEW OLD ME to emerge. I want to fall in love again. With me.
Thank you for doing this- no matter who you pick, they deserve it, and I think it’s a very sweet, incredibly altruistic idea.
July 23rd, 2010 at 11:59 pm
I never enter these contests, but I thought, What the Heck! I’ll give it a shot!
I am a 31-year old stay-at-home Mom with two wonderful kiddos – a 4-yr-old boy and a 20-month girl. My usual uniform is jeans/shorts and a t-shirt, ease and comfort rule when spending all day with the kids! I almost always wear make up, as I feel this is my tiny little way of being glam and girly and feeling “put together.” I am always changing my hair and have no fear about doing anything to it – it grows back, right? Currently it is super short, almost pixie cut, and I have been contemplating some bold highlights. I am tall, 5’10″-ish, and have been plus-size for many years. My husband and I recently started losing weight together, and after losing about 50 pounds so far, I am LOVING trying new clothes! I no longer feel the need to cover up with giant t-shirts, and am feeling more comfortable in more form-fitting clothes. And let’s just say it was a joy to have to buy a belt and to keep moving it to smaller and smaller notches! All this and I’m not even done yet, I plan on losing lots more weight.
I would LOVE this makeover to help me feel prettier and more trendy, and to find different styles to help me show off my new-found body and confidence! What a great reward for the work I’ve already completed, and an amazing motivator to keep on going!
Good luck to all the ladies entering!!
July 24th, 2010 at 1:13 pm
I just turned 30 and my best friend said “you know, we should get professional photos taken while we’re still hot!” It’s wonderful to have a friend that feels so confident about herself and me, I have to say – I am not usually all that confident.
But my 30′s are a new era and I think that this experience would help build my confidence and also be a huge amount of fun, which is another infusion into my 30′s since I spent most of my 20′s opening and growing a business (which was fun, but a lot of hard work).
I would love to put myself in your hands and see what you fabulous ladies whip up.
July 24th, 2010 at 6:45 pm
I’m a 39 year old, newly single social worker. I have decided that this is MY year. I’ve lost 70 pounds and am hiking, biking and rock climbing my way back into shape. I’m excited about the way my life is going but I could use some help in dressing this new body! My friends say I need a new ‘do, too…and they are probably right. Having a new look just in time for the big four-zero would be the icing on the cake!
July 25th, 2010 at 12:37 pm
I LOVED turning 50 (a few years back) and I LOVE my graying hair! What a great opportunity to embrace and promote the agelessness of great style. I would love to be a “poster child” for the cause.
Thanks!
July 25th, 2010 at 9:07 pm
Ohhhh….please! This sounds like such a dream opportunity.
My hair has been stuck in a rut for…oh, maybe 20+ years? Fine, blond hair, and apparently, not too much of it, either. But I see other women with cute cuts and hair like mine! I guess I just never find the right stylist.
I’m underemployed, after being let go from a big-time job to getting some part-time work as a fitness instructor. Fun, yes, but pay the bills (never mind the luxuries) = tricky! This after hubby of 10 years moves on to a younger and fresher model with child. Leaving the now 40-year old childless, loveless, and lonely!
Please make me over, update my looks, and get me into the latest and greatest in the shops and workouts. I love to shop, need to update the wardrobe, and promise to be a great spokesperson and model !
July 27th, 2010 at 4:54 pm
Well I’d love to be selected for a makeover because even though I’m approaching 30 I don’t know what I’m doing! I just got my long hair cut to a bob but it feels very boring and ordinary. I’ve always been a t-shirt and jeans girl because it’s easy and I have no idea how to dress flatteringly. I ride my bike to get everywhere so I don’t do much with my make-up because most of the time I’ve wiped it off before I arrive at my destination. And honestly I’m wearing the same make-up colors that I wore in high school. Yikes! I know it’s time to evolve and change but I sure could use some help! You should be pick me because I think you guys would be the perfect team to help. Thanks!
July 30th, 2010 at 10:29 am
well, comment contest, eh? i figured: why not.(?) having done amateur modeling for friends, yet seldomly indulging myself with hair treatments or shopping in general, this seems like it would be a great splurge. i typically cut my own hair, skimp on the makeup, and don’t put in long hours planning styles or outfits. although i still receive a compliment now and then on some aspect of my ‘look,’ part of me knows i could do a bit better and have more fun with it. a day with the opportunity to be at my prime could really inspire me to put in the effort (especially considering you all make it sound relatively effortless!) and take ‘fashion’ up a notch, regardless of my typical ‘anti-style/fashion’ stance (and no, i don’t feel/do it in an ‘ironic’ way). actually, everyone involved sounds very personable and truly willing to work with the client in regards to individual preferences – portland is amazing like that, and it’s a movement i see spreading. everyone deserves to make a living doing what they love to do (and are good at), and deserve recognition for that. thanks putting yourselves out there and offering the chance to work with you all.
July 30th, 2010 at 10:32 am
well, comment contest, eh? i figured: why not.(?) having done amateur modeling for friends, yet not ever indulged myself with hair treatments or shopping in general, this seems like it would be a great splurge. i typically cut my own hair, skimp on the makeup, and don’t put in long hours planning styles or outfits. although i still receive a compliment now and then on some aspect of my ‘look,’ part of me knows i could do a bit better and have more fun with it. a day with the opportunity to be at my prime could really inspire me to put in the effort (especially considering you all make it sound relatively effortless!) and take ‘fashion’ up a notch, regardless of my typical ‘anti-style/fashion’ stance (and no, i don’t feel/do it in an ‘ironic’ way). actually, everyone involved sounds very personable and truly willing to work with the client in regards to individual preferences – portland is amazing like that, and it’s a movement i see spreading. everyone deserves to make a living doing what they love to do (and are good at), and deserve recognition for that. thanks putting yourselves out there and offering the chance to work with you all.
August 2nd, 2010 at 1:06 pm
I am a 33 year old home mom. I have 1, 13year old daughter with high functioning autism. I am actually entering for her. She is 5’7″ and weighs nearly 200. She is beautiful and yet self conscious. She has beautiful kinky curls, shoulder length, and a very tender head. She is so beautiful but she struggles to see herself in that way. I would love for her to experience being pampered and feeling/looking stunning! She loves to have her picture taken and loves clothes=) What girl doesn’t. I think having an experience like what you’re offering would be terrific for any youg woman!
August 4th, 2010 at 5:43 pm
I’m taking a chance on entering. I followed the link from Ginger Salon. I’m think I should win because damn, I’ve been a stay at home mom for the past 5 years and a total hot mess! I’m returning back to work and want a fresh new do/look/attitude! I’ve let myself go in a big way to focus on the domestic engineer thing. There are only so many ways you can rock a mean pair of sweat pants. My make up skills pretty much reached their peak in high school so I’d love to learn some new tips. I would jump at the chance to show myself I can still bust it out, so pick me!
August 5th, 2010 at 6:17 pm
(last name in my email address) Let’s see… I haven’t seen more than an inch of my natural hair color since I was 12. I’m 38 now, so would love some advice as to if I haven’t gone crazy with my color. I Also, for the past three years I really haven’t shopped. I was laid off in 07, had a project management job in a very casual company for 6 months, and now I’ve been laid off for 2 more years. About 6 months ago, I sold everything I owned (including all of my clothes that wouldn’t fit in one of my two suitcases, and took off to Europe). I now have a couple of skirt suits, 2 pairs of casual pants (gulp) and workout clothes. Attempting to shop again, I was overwhelmed. Starting your wardrobe over from scratch is much different than looking for a holiday cocktail dress. Also, I’m busty busty and I don’t have a figure that can pull of a tight dress, so buying something that fits and doesn’t look make me look billowy or frumpy (on a 5’3″ frame) is making me want to pull my dyed locks out. It looks like there are a lot of deserving people here, so I’m looking forward to seeing the before and after shots either way (guilty pleasure).
August 9th, 2010 at 3:38 pm
My husband and I just became foster parents to our young nephews (1 and 3). Our kids are 10, 11,16, 18, and 20…needless to say we are “starting over”. My 16 year old encouraged me to sign up for this and say that I need to be cool forever! We work hard to support our family and do a great job, but I would love to have a break and enjoy an experience like this….:) My husband just wants to go play a game of golf…..
August 9th, 2010 at 10:24 pm
’m petite and curvy; and my looks belie my age. I’ve lost 30 lbs this year and look and feel better than I did when I was 20. I’m approaching a ‘big’ birthday this year, the one beyond 50 and feel great about it.
I retired a couple of years ago and have been spending my time doing the things I want to, gardening, learning to cook (love good food which uses local ingredients), sewing, and biking. I have a love of fashion and an interest in the process of how one pulls it all together; looks, clothes and presence.
Little of today’s fashion and marketing focuses on the ‘older’ woman, despite the fact that demographics show that there are a significant number of us. Why not promote the fact that as an older woman I am comfortable with myself and would like to enhance my assets. Do I need a makeover – probably not. Would I like to show off my assets and have fun at the same time – sure!
August 10th, 2010 at 12:55 am
There are so many deserving women who have posted here. I have no idea how you will choose three.
I am a 41-year-old working mother. My daughter is 2.5 years old. I work a more-than-full-time job and take care of my daughter whenever I am not working. I am the sole financial provider for my family. Like so many other moms, I do not take any time for myself. There just aren’t enough hours in the day.
I have always struggled with self-esteem, particularly around my appearance. Since giving birth to my daughter, I have not felt good about my appearance at all. I just feel bland and style-less, as well as out of shape and overtired. I don’t know how to develop a look, or the self-care routines, to fit my new “working mom of a toddler” role.
Being the mom of a little girl, I think it is absolutely critical for me to model the kind of self-esteem and ease that I want my daughter to have as she grows up. There are so many cards stacked against young girls in our culture. I want to give my daughter a fighting chance to believe in herself and her beauty.
Thank you for considering me for your contest.
August 10th, 2010 at 10:47 am
Pick me! Pick me! It’s been over 10 years since I graduated High School but everyone tells me that I haven’t changed a bit. Still the same size, same hair, same style. Until February, I’d even been working the same job for the past 10 years. I’m getting married in October and would love to start the next chapter of my life with a fresh, new look. I’m also in the midst of changing careers, and have spent most of this year sitting in my home office in my PJ’s trying to launch my business. This is already the year of ch-ch-changes for me! I think this make-over portrait session would be the ultimate prize to take those changes to the next level, and to remind myself not to be stuck in the same rut for the NEXT 10 years! Thanks for your consideration!!
August 10th, 2010 at 6:56 pm
What a fab idea!
Everyone I know seems to have had a really rough year starting in 2009 and continuing throughout 2010. I’m one to speak. Business took a turn south and the beatings just kept coming. From loved ones who have passed away, to other loved ones losing their best friends. The stress has really taken a toll on oneself.
This would be a great fresh breath of air for everyone. Self included!