"Though I enjoy every aspect of the Beauty Industry my true love is being a colorist but you will never see me turn down even a manicure. I feel a hairstylist should be able to perform any service well."
With a family of hairdressers and barbers, the beauty world has always been a major part of Rita's life. By the time she was 8 years old, Rita knew that this was her future. Having been in the industry for over29 years, Rita has been certifiably trained in many speacialty aspects of hairdressing. Her specified training includes Clairol, Schwartkopf, Keune, Sebastion, SoColor, Paul Mitchell and a certified color specialist for L'Oreal Professional.
Rita has competed in Hair Fashion competitions in finishing designs, and updo's. She also attended Chadwicks & Aquage updo collection classes.
Locks of Love:
For many years, I have felt the desire to give back to the Community in some way. A labor of love for me has been in the form of Locks of Love; an orginazation which uses human hair to make much needed wigs for those who have lost their hair while enduring chemotherapy. Several years back, I grew my own hair to cut & donate, and thus began my alliance with Locks of Love. Over the past several years, I have donated over 20 separate locks, enough to make 2 completer wigs! It is never a surprise when a guest is looking for a make-over from long hair to short...I take the cue and inform them about the Locks of Lover program, which they are always happy to participate in.
Two guests stand out when I reflect on those who made the gesture to donate their hair prior to their own chmotherapy treatments. A 54 year old woman unfortunately passed before receiving her card of thanks from Locks of Love, but her gift will help another endure this difficult time. Lauren, a 21 year old with a beautiful spirit, who has Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, knew she would soon lose her long locks to chemo, but even hospital bound & in pain, called The HairAfter and asked if anyone was able to come to Bridgeport Hospital and cut here hair so that someone could benefit from her misfortune. The Salon Manager John visited with her while I sheared her locks. Although emotionally draining, it is an honor to donate my services to these brave souls, both of whom are heroes in my eyes! I am so grateful to those who have donated their hair over the years, and to the Locks of Love for providing this service. I feel privileged to be involved with such an outstanding organization.
