Sarah and Teresa, owners of Bloom Beauty Boutique had the honor in participating in PROJECT SMILE. The project consisted of doing a hair and makeup makeover and a photo shoot for women who were victims of domestic violence and their children. The idea was presented to them from thier colleague Rhee Bhevere, one of their photographer buddies in the wedding industry. Both Sarah and Teresa agreed to help with the project and offered to lend a helping hand in the makeover process. Little did they know that participating in this project, their lives would be changed forever. The project was collaborated with the Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence Organization. What this organization does for women is absolutely amazing! It gives women and children who have escaped abusters to rebuild thier lives.
Both of them did not really know what to expect. On the day of the photo shoot, they were able to see first hand some of these women in the program. The sight of the smiling faces and the "Ooohs and Ahhs" from them was so touching. what an effect of such a small gesture could do for their outlook and self esteem was so rewarding. Even the little girls were so excited to get pampered and felt like princesses. Later they heard from the program coordinators that from that day, the women were walking around with a different attitude. Their heads were a little higher and some of them commented on how they did not realize how beautiful they were and could be.
On May 14, 2008, Sarah and Teresa were invited to a dinner. Both were presented along with along with thier colleagues, an award for participating in Project SMILE. The award recipients along with Sarah and Teresa who participated in Project Smile were: Rhee of Rhee Bevere Photography, Maria Chang and Tania Ortega of PMA, Jeanne DePolo of DePolo Photography , Tanja of Tanja Lippert Photography, Shannon of Shannon Montez Photography, Chyna of Chyna Darner Photography, Kim Sayre, Angela Banchi of AGB Photographics, Karen Rusten, Kristen Calderaro Makeup Artist, Sarah Hyde Hair & Makeup Artist, Farzana Farzam Hairstylist, Monina Wright Stylist, Tia Gavin, Jennifer Sturken, and Gigi Moss.
Sarah and Teresa have both decided to continue to participate in events that "make a difference" in the lives of others. They want to give back and make a difference any way they can. They are in the process of signing up for a Walk for Cancer this summer!
