There’s just something about having your hair and makeup done that provides a boost. We all have days when the eye bags are more prominent, the hair is super frizz and we don’t feel our best. And that’s what I love about Salon deZEN – we’re in the business of making people feel their most confident. 

We’re also here for those women getting back on their feet, trying to find a light in sometimes very dark days. They may be coming out of incarceration, finding a new place to live after being homeless, or a refugee feeling lost in their new home.

When Kelly Grant from ALX Community connected me with Jane Collins who started SeenbyJane, about a makeover event at Carpenter’s Shelter, I instantly replied, “I would love to be part of it.” We want to empower every woman to feel her best. And if that takes a curling iron, a blowout, some color on the eyes and cheeks, we’re here for it. 

Jane, the former executive director of Alexandria-based nonprofit Heard, which launched in 2017, “with a goal for everyone to express themselves creatively and know they were heard,” started this new initiative, called #seenbyjane, which empowers people to be seen.

She said one of the goals is to give women tangible items they can use – professional photos to help them secure a job, and makeup kits they can use after receiving some tips on application. Salon deZEN proudly partnered with Jane and Carpenter’s Shelter to bring a day of beauty to the women of the Alexandria Community Shelter. We provided hair, makeup, and beauty services, along with generous product bags from M·A·C Cosmetics. 

After customized makeup and beautiful styling, they were ready for their close up. 

The reactions? “These women just felt so beautiful and confident. There was one woman who looked like Jennifer Hudson…and she was so excited taking selfies and Facetiming her grandmother. Women deserve to be seen for their beauty – and their hard work. It’s tough if you’re coming out of incarceration. You just need a second chance,” said Jane.

Of our stylist Mariah, she added, “She was a godsend, sent to do hair…and I asked her, ‘can you do makeup, too?’ She had her stuff in her car, and helped with both that day!”

If you’re interested in sharing your services as a makeup artist, stylist, or photographer, you can reach out to Jane Collins at jahcollins@gmail.com or DM her on Instagram. Jane is “amassing a list of contacts, the people we want to partner with, those willing to give up half a day of income to help these people in need, and we’re so thankful for that!”

Salon deZEN also had the honor of participating in an incredible event, organized by Leigh Poole in collaboration with Alexandria Country Day School, dedicated to welcoming Ukrainian and Afghan refugees to the D.C. area. Along with other local stylists, we provided haircuts to over 100 young girls, boys, women and men as they adapt to their new lives here.

The day was filled with community spirit and generosity. Local restaurants provided delicious food, there was a soccer clinic for the kids, and over 200 backpacks and lunchboxes were distributed. The event also included arts and crafts, creating a joyful atmosphere for everyone involved. We were thrilled to donate our time and services to this important cause and are deeply grateful to be part of a community that comes together to support those in need. I just love our town!! 

We’re grateful to be part of this community and to bring joy to all who need a boost!

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