Ashley and Alessandra recently attended the Aveda Born To Style Event for Toronto Beauty Reviews
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If you remember Elaine’s post from February, Aveda Institute was offering one lucky person the opportunity to win their tuition to the Aveda Institute in Toronto. In order to do so, the individual had to create a short video explaining their passion to style and create, and the determination behind doing so. On May 16th, 2012, the lucky finalists went head-to-head in a hair styling competition in order to jump-start their career, and win the scholarship. I was luckily enough, to be invited to attend.
The event was held at the Aveda Institute salon and store on King Street. The event was to be judged by three panelists – two incredibly talented Toronto based bloggers, Jen McNeely of She Does the City and Anita Clarke of I Want, I Got, and the President of Aveda Institute Canada himself, Ray Civello.
Photo Courtesy of Alessandra Travali
Aveda Institute pulled out all the stops at this event – from offering a selection of both red and white wine, appetizers, and mini cupcakes, to offering attendees a complimentary hand massage and or make-up touch up. We guests were certainly pampered to Aveda’s flawless standards!
Finally, the show began. Models took the runway with elaborate and gorgeous hairstyles for the judges to analyze and decipher based on the complexity, originality, and sheer talent of the stylists. Finalists were then given the opportunity to give a brief description of their styles. Here’s a breakdown of the talent below. Beware, it is photo heavy!
The first finalist was Meladee. Her look was inspired by the ‘Hunger Games’ phenomenon – it was definitely a look that inspired drama! It may be unclear in the photos, but the models hair was teased to extraordinary heights. The back was elegantly pinned that lead down to a side braid.
Photo Courtesy of Alessandra Travali
The second finalist was Jessie. Accessories and braids inspired her look. Her hair was simply gorgeous – the adornment of floral accessories in the back was both simple and stunning!
Photo Courtesy of Alessandra Travali
The third finalist was Renee Michelle. Her look was inspired by the upcoming Prom season. Personally, her look was one of my faves – look at that bow! Simply gorgeous!
Photo Courtesy of Aveda
The fourth finalist was Ashalyn. Her look was inspired by the eco-friendliness of Aveda’s product line – she incorporated the three R’s in her look (reduce, reuse and recycle). Take a look at her bouquet – it’s made of newspapers!
Photo Courtesy of Alessandra Travali
Finally, the fifth finalist was Mel. Her look was pure retro. Her use of hot rollers, backcombing and extensions perfectly captured the 40’s look! Take a look at the detailing in the back.
Photo Courtesy of Alessandra Travali
The judges had an extremely hard decision on their hands. All finalists were equally talented and their hard work and dedication were apparent through all their styles. After much deliberation, it turned out the winner was …. a tie! In the first time in Aveda history, two finalists were selected as the winners! All other finalists were given dollar amounts that could be used towards an Aveda Institute tuition. But with the tie, Ray Civello made the unprecedented move of ‘doubling’ the winnings of all contestants! Congratulations, ladies!
Photo Courtesy of Alessandra Travali
A big congratulations goes out to both Meladee (the Hunger Games style) and Jessie (floral accessories)!
Afterwards, I was lucky enough to capture 5 minutes of Ray Civello’s time. He was generous enough to talk about taking the event to a national level. He understands that some are not lucky enough to have the chance to experience Aveda’s educational offerings. He wants to bring this event to a national level to offer these individuals the experience to showcase their skills and abilities. He foresees taking the competition to individual cities and having finalists showcase their talents in different areas of styling. What a generous man! Thanks for taking the opportunity to talk with us!
Photo Courtesy of Alessandra Travali
Congratulations to all the ladies!
Photo Courtesy of Aveda
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OMG Ash, looks like it was and amazing time! You and Alessandra looked incredible too, thanks so much for covering this event!
Great post! Thanks for the pics too-I barely had time to take any before I had to send my model on stage!
Thanks for sharing! That hair bow is my fave!