AUBURN GRESHAM — This prom and graduation season, 100 girls will receive free hair styling at The Total Look hair salon in Auburn Gresham.
Owner Brigette Maxwell is a native of the community and has been in business for 15 years. In honor of her shop's 15th anniversary, she is providing the services free this spring and holding a celebration on May 6.
The free services including washing, blow-drying and styling for 100 prom and graduation-bound girls from neighborhood high schools. The salon, at 7849 S. Loomis, is booking appointments now.
Local barbershop Krispy Kutz by Rahiym, will join the effort by providing free haircuts to young men going to prom.
Maxwell said she understands the financial challenges that many residents face “when household finances don’t synchronize with fashion and beauty fantasies.”
“Over the course of 15 years, I think I’ve practically seen, heard or read about it all — the good, bad and ugly in the community,” Maxwell said. “But I stand strong in my belief that the good always outweighs the bad. There is beauty here and in other urban neighborhoods across Chicago. I’m just happy that my mission to make ladies pretty reflects the love and beauty of the community I call home.”
To help cover the costs, she’s asking for $35 donations for hair services for the young women and/or $10 for the young men. Students must bring their current student ID to their appointment.
The anniversary celebration on May 6, which starts at 5 p.m., will include food, music and poetry by poet Blaq Ice, one of Maxwell’s childhood friends. She said Blaq Ice sparked the idea of the larger community-focused celebration.
“Brigette’s shop has been a community staple and a testament that contradicts the negativity that is often the focus of daily news reports,” Blaq Ice said. “We can’t let 15 years go by without showing our love and continued appreciation. So we need everyone to support local youth with a pledge of support.”
For more information or to make a donation, call 773-456-6092 or go to Paypal/BrigetteMaxwell.
