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Back to School in Style with a Fresh New Do

By Emily Hall, 11 year old Macaroni Kid, Hickory NC August 18, 2016

Editor's Note: You may recall my article from 2014 about my hair donation to Wigs for Kids. The fabulous salon Beyond Appearance not only had me back last month as I donated once again (this time to Children with Hair Loss) but also treated my 11 year old daughter to a fresh new do for back to school. Here's her take on the experience. 

The school bells are ringing, signifying the start of another academic year. While I'm eager to begin a new scholastic adventure, I am most excited to see my friends, and boy, will they be surprised when they see me and my fresh new look! Although the back to school clothes shopping may be done, another way to update a student's style is with a new do. Kids want to make a great first impression as they enter the classroom while parents want adorable pictures commemorating their child's first day of school... a fresh haircut is a great solution that helps achieve both goals.

As the school year drew closer, I too wanted a different style for entering sixth grade. But instead of the typical trim to my long hair that took time to brush, I decided to be more daring with my do. Although it may be non traditional, I have found myself drawn to short hair. Not extremely short, but cropped enough to have a bob and help keep me cool, all while looking my best. I researched hairstyles, browsed multiple photos online, and found the perfect look for me, then had an appointment made at Beyond Appearance. Soon, I would have my dream come true, and I couldn't wait for the day to come.

As I entered Beyond Appearance, I found the salon's modern yet rustic décor very welcoming. I was greeted by a cheerful receptionist, who offered me an icy beverage on a scorching day. When I heard my name called, I was eager to start the process. Krystal, my stylist, sat me down in a cushioned chair and outfitted me in a smock to protect my clothes from hair trimmings. Mrs. Krystal and I reviewed the photos I had brought and discussed how we will achieve the desired look. She began the transformation with a short trim which preceded a luxurious shampoo and condition that helped me relax. Mrs. Krystal was extremely friendly and sweet, getting to know what I like to do, where I go to school, and many more details about me, while I sat back and watched it all come together, like a painter creating the Mona Lisa. As her fingers worked her magic, Mrs. Krystal regularly stopped to ensure before making a large adjustment that it was like I wanted it to be. Later on, she began to get down to the more precise details like layering and shaping. Finally, she turned my chair around to reveal the new me. As I gazed into the full length mirror, I was overjoyed with what I saw; it was exactly as I wanted. I'm very happy with how this haircut has updated my style, and upped my confidence to achieve the best that the new school year has in store for me.

Beyond Appearance is conveniently located in downtown Hickory at 270 Union Square NW beside Larry’s Music in the Old Hickory New Building. Hours are Monday - Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please call (828) 327.9101 to schedule your appointment.  Like them on Facebook!


Disclaimer: Thanks to the generosity of Beyond Appearance, my daughter and I each received a complimentary cut and style for the purpose of this article.  All opinions expressed herein are 100% our own.