There’s a crack team of experts on call here—hair colourist Belinda, hair stylist Henry Bourke and make-up artist Michelle Scott—to explain the latest colours and styles. And they couldn’t have a more attentive audience. It’s like the best possible kind of class—with the champagne flowing to make it a more festive occasion.

There was only meant to be one lucky recipient of a full makeover—hair colour, cut and make-up revamp—but the enthusiasm and buzz in the room is so high that the experts extend the offer to two others as well. The women are hanging on every word and handy tip offered up by Belinda and Co.
Whenever there’s a minute to spare, others are given a little wash and blow-dry, a fringe trim, or have their make-up colours advised. Those in charge are overwhelmed at the level of interest and can’t help but help everyone.

For Debbie, a 52-year-old mother of two and a recipient of the full makeover, it’s been a transforming experience. “The whole thing from start to here has been a dream come true,” she says. “It has been the most unexpected blessing I could imagine.”

There’s certainly a lot of love in the room. “Everybody gets to feel like a celebrity—to feel and look special,” says Belinda.  “It’s been a really enjoyable evening. For me it’s about being able to give something to people who have been working hard and don’t usually get to spend much time on themselves. It’s very satisfying when everybody walks out with a smile on their face.” 

And by the end of the night everyone has taken away something, whether a whole new look, a little tweak and a tzuj or just a boost in their knowledge and self-esteem.

And that’s no mean feat.