Gasoline Alley The Salon

Beauty for Disaster Relief

Recently,  Gasoline Alley The Salon had a charity event for those that have been devastated by the recent tornados that touched down in the Springfield area.  Gasoline Alley The Salon teamed up with the Elias Brookings School to directly connect with the school and help the specific families attached with the school.

At this event were a TON of fun things to see, do and best of all, BUY! 

We, of course, had delicious food:

Yep. It WAS as good as it looks.  And there was WINE of course to accompany the cheese.  Is there any way to enjoy cheese otherwise?

Stella and Dot presented beautiful jewelry.

I have to admit.  I have never seen Stella and Dot jewelry or have ever been to a Stella and Dot party, so this was all new to me.  But here I stand CONVERTED! I fell in love with the pieces!  Especially the bracelets.  SO UNIQUE!

Silver? Gold? YOU PICK!!!

 

And "All About Me" Boutique located in the center of Hampden was at the salon displaying some of there clothing and accessories:

What to choose....HOW to choose????

Scarves galore..Sure to enhance every summer wardrobe. Tres CHIC!

Ok..So I had a SERIOUS case of lust for this clutch.  How can you not?!?!

And, of course we had haircuts to benefit the Tornado Relief Fund..And I am proud to say that all of the haircut slots were booked solid.  

Rachel doing her part and loving it!

Michelle working her magic..

And Abby hard at work for a good cause...

Next door at the Skin Salon

For donations, there were mini manicures and massages!

Ummmm..pencil me in for about 4 slots in a row..ok? Hey. I have two kids.

 

We also had Dr. Glen Brook on site to answer any questions anyone may have regarding plastic surgery, enhancement and skin care.  Oh boy.  Did I have LOTS of questions for Dr. Brooks.  Let's just say that there are things going on that need to be taken care of because 1.having kids and 2.gravity. Dr. Brooks brought a slide show on his computer that blew me away. The slideshow was all kinds of "before and afters" of his patients.  WOW.  Time to start saving up! Maybe I can have my nip and tuck in ten years if I start saving now!  He also created a skin care line that is very impressive.  But the one thing he did say is that it doesn't matter what skin care line you use..But every woman needs to wear sunscreen everyday.  He explained that it's not the burning and tanning of the skin that gives you problems in the end, but the every day things like walking in and out of the grocery store, and shoveling your driveway in the winter.  He explained all these things lead to fine lines and wrinkles. So SUNBLOCK people! SUNBLOCK!  Or you are risking your face looking like a leather shoe. 

 

Elizabeth Samay was also at the event with her "Fantabulous Beauty".  Elizabeth offers a unique line of cosmetics that offer custom liquid foundation, custom mineral powder, custom color palette, custom skincare analysis and custom 'Beauty from the Inside Out' analysis. 

I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical at first because I am a Sephora shopper to my core.  But I decided to give Elizabeth a try.

Elizabeth first talked to me about my skin, what problems I have had, what problems I currently have and what do I expect and want from a foundation/makeup.  She also explained to me her process, which is quite the scientific procedure!

And all of Elizabeth's products won't even break your bank (which totally wasn't what I expected for custom makeup!) 

Elizabeth worked her magic and VIOLA! 

Yes! I was wearing makeup, but did I look like I was? NO!!! 

It was a weird feeling to look in the mirror and know that I was wearing makeup because there was no color change on my face, but my flaws were covered up and my skin tone was even.  It was great! It was like magic potion!

So I declare this evetn a COMPLETE SUCCESS.  Gasoline Alley The Salon was hopping with so many people that the parking lot was jam packed and overflow parking was made.  There was a busy hum over the salon as people shopped, bought, talked and got their manicures, massages and haircuts. It was exciting to see everyone doing their part for the Tornado Relief which is a very real thing right now.  

Cheers to Gasoline Alley The Salon!

Hip Hip Horray! 

Here's to paying it forward....

So I say get your HAIR STYLED if you LOVE the Bruins, or if you are sick of hearing about them..Either way, it's a great reason for a MAKE OVER!!!!

Make a statement this summer!

Sustainable Beauty Day UPDATE

Since the three EF3 tornados hit the Western Massachusetts area, Gasoline Alley The Salon has decided to donate ALL generated proceeds from Sustainable Beauty Day to the tornado relief fund in the Springfield area.  

Specifically, Gasoline Alley The Salon, has teamed up with Elias Brookings K-8 Museum Magnet School.

Here is a brief description of the school:

"Elias Brookings Expeditionary Learning Museum Magnet School is one of two schools in Springfield serving both elementary and middle school students. It is located in the Six Corners section of the city next to Ruth Elizabeth Park. The school opened in 1926 and was named after Civil War veteran and educator, Elias Brookings. It is anticipated that the middle school grades will be completely phased out by June, 2010.

Elias Brookings Expeditionary Learning Museum Magnet School is a school where staff and students work on grade level or school wide projects that help transform the school into a living museum. Museum studies offer students opportunities to explore how artifacts provide a glimpse into our past and impact our view of history. In Expeditionary Learning, the teachers involve students in learning through rigorous academic content and service to the community, which are embedded in learning expeditions. Visits to local museums are also used as springboards to meaningful exploration in all areas of the curriculum. At Elias Brookings EL Museum Magnet School, the school becomes a museum during public exhibit openings where every student has a project they can be proud of on display in our classrooms, hallways and display galleries.

The Elias Brookings Museum School family is thrilled to be able to offer these unique learning opportunities to our students. As the only museum school in Western Massachusetts, we will continue to strive for proficiency and excellence in education." (www.sps.springfield.ma.us/websites/EliasBrookingsSchool.asp)

 

This particular school is located on Hancock Street (right near "Six Corners"), which is in the heart of where the first Springfield South End tornado hit.  What is unique about this area, is the diversity of cultures and backgrounds.  And the high population of people housed in this area.  Brookings School is now closed due to the massive destruction in and around the immediate area.

I took a drive around the Elias Brookings School area today and this is what I found.

 

Pure Devestation 

The orange "X" means the house will be destroyed because it is condemned.

Notice the American flag still intact.

Trees could not withstand this EF3 tornado..Even thru this downtown area.

The backside of the destruction

Full of grief and sadness. 

Imagine the families....

A neighborhood...Completely flattened.

 

So THIS is the community that Sustainable Beauty Day is going to help.  This is where the children and families of Brookings School live and now where they attempt to try to put their lives back together.  Elias Brookings School is not open for the rest of this school year and the children are being bussed to other schools in the district because of the devastation of the building and the neighborhood.  Nothing is stable and solid right now.  These families need help, both financially and supported with our thoughts and prayers.  

Please come to Sustainable Beauty Day.  Show your support.  Give back.  You are needed.  Make a difference.  

Sustainable Beauty Day

On June 20th from 4-8pm Gasoline Alley The Salon is having an OPEN HOUSE! 

 

But it is not a normal OPEN HOUSE....Because, of course, this OPEN HOUSE is like an OPEN HOUSE on steroids.  

First of all, this is a charity event that the salon is participating in thru Davines.  There will be haircuts for $15!!!!!!!!!  And all money raised is to go to the planting of fruit trees in Africa.  What a great cause!

Is that a STEAL or WHAT?  Call now because space is extremely limited.

So, not only are there going to be haircut for a fantastic cause, but there is going to be MUCH MUCH more!

 

Not only is Gasoline Alley The Salon taking part in Sustainable Beauty day, but they are opening their door to a Stella and Dot representative who will be ready with some fabulous jewelry that even the celebs wear!

And.........Dr. Glenn Brooks (plastic surgeon) will be there (this is the one I am most excited about..For selfish reasons, I know...Yes. I love fruit trees and giving back and paying forward.  But I also love info about BOTOX and ummmm....Maybe a little tummy tuck?  I have that "baby jelly donut" that won't go away no matter HOW much I work on it....But nothing a little suck, nip and tuck can't fix! HA!) .  So, yes, Dr. Brooks will be giving consultations and information about certain procedures and things that can let us "SUSTAIN" our beauty.  Not that a little wrinkle would crimp our beauty, but if we can stop it....

 

Also, Elizabeth Samay will be in the salon and be available to mix high end customizable makeup for all skin types.  Imagine. A foundation mixed to your exact skin color for prime coverage that is natural! Sign me up!

Also "It's All About Me" will be present with all their boutique beauty...Bring you credit card, as I am sure that they will be bringing their finest, as they always do!

AND refeshments!!!!!!!!! YUM! 

Bring your beauty, charity and support!  We will see you there! I'll be the one near the refreshments and the plastic surgeon (do you think that if I blogged for him her would give me a discount??).

Our Girls...

Here are our Rock Star Stylists from Gasoline Alley The Salon at the "Dress for Success" Runway Show.

Ashley!  We love you!  Cutest haircut ever!

 

And here they are....Rachel, Ashley, Michelle, Lauren and Allyson.  (we miss you Abby!)

Dress for Success Part 2

Simply beautiful.  Long and curly.  And it looks like her hair would stay all day like this.  Again. Jealous! My hair would MAYBE stay this pretty for an hour.

Stunning.

Fabulous curls that stand the test of the work day.

 

Office chic. Can't go wrong!

This woman is ready to get down to business..She MAY have a resume in her pocket..Or briefcase. 

OMG. All I can say. OMG.

Are we sure that this girl wasn't planted?? Is she a professional MODEL?

So beautiful and soft looking.  Perfect for her skin tone and face.

Again. STUNNING.

I love the back...Shows off the color and highlights under the lighting.

 

And there are the ladies.  Off and ready for a re-entry into the work force.  And they sure look like a force to be reckoned with.  These girls now have the look that they need to feel proud and confident. Go get them girls.

And the thanks to the team at the BEST salon: GASOLINE ALLEY THE SALON

 

Dress For Success Part 1

Gasoline Alley The Salon was in tip top buzzing shape as they participated in the "Dress for Success" event held in Springfield on May 3rd, 2010.  The event was held for ladies who are getting ready to enter into the workplace , but need help looking "professional" and "interview ready".  

The ladies first hit Gasoline Alley The Salon for the works when it came to their makeovers.  Hair was being cut, colored and highlighted at lightening speed and women were being transformed into fabulous professionals ready to hit the business scene.

 

Take a peek at the before pics:

Red Hot Ready

 

Sun kissed Strategy

Strawberry Madness

Long and Sexy

The styling begins......Long and languid

The styling begins for the sun kissed beauty...

 

And here are the astonishing after pics (although they are not so astonishing because Gasoline Alley The Salon is the BOMB!)

Gorgeous color and cut....

Sassy and daring....My favorite.

 

 

And here are the women ready for runway action for the "Dress for Success" runway show.  

SHOW STOPPERS!!! 

If I were an employer? I would hire them in a quick second. Just sayin'.

She looks WAY more professional than I could EVER pull off (as I sit here in my yoga pants).

Another angle of the gorgeous updo.

Loose curls and long hair...A perfect combination.

 

SO STRIKING! I am JEALOUS.

Show-stopping RED.

JUMP into SPRING!

JUMP into SPRING!

 

Everyone knows that spring is a time for new growth, renewal and new beginnings.  Why not take that to the next level and apply it to your look?  At Gasoline Alley The Salon you can do just that!  

Get a color and highlight.

Get a fresh new cut.

Buy some new product to maintain the sexy new you.  Lots to choose from! Redken, Davines, Moroccan Oil, And Ouidad!

Get your brows waxed!

You may even want to visit next door and treat your skin at The Skin Salon.

Whatever it is that breathes spring, fun, sexiness and life into your look and being, go for it!  

Put your trust in Gasoline Alley The Salon...They will transform you! 

Brush Much??

What are YOU brushing and styling your hair with??

 

Your sixth grade hair brush?  Something you picked up at CVS a few years ago?  A toothbrush (I hope not!)!

 

A trendy brush that made empty promises?

 

Behold:

Brushes for ALL seasons, all hair types and styles.  And yes.  They do what they are supposed to.  Leaving hair shiny and full of style.  Ceramic and ionic, these brushes fight static and bring the shine FULL ON while retaining heat to insure sexy styling.

A pretty bouquet of brushes.  Pick one and turn on the shine, volume and style. 

And...We have Lift Off....

Ooooooo LA LA!!!

 

OUI for OUIDAD!

 

Check out our "Official Ouidad Page"...

For now, check out a "preview":::

 

Certified Stylists Michelle Owner/Stylist  View stylist bio... Salon Hours MON: Closed TUES: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM WEDS-FRI: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM SAT: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM SUN: Closed HOLIDAYS - Please Call

Gasoline Alley The Salon + Write A Testimonial Customer Rating:      (5.0) Based on 1 Testimonial Why Gasoline Alley? Because people said it would never work. (Well it has worked, for over 11 years now!) Because we love unique spaces. (Come in and see for yourself.) Because we love what we do and enjoy working together. (You'll notice that as soon as you walk through the door.) Definitely because we believe it's important to support our community. (Even the abandoned parts.) We are proud to be here at Gasoline Alley. We strive to be a socially conscious company that donates a portion of our yearly profits to worthy causes. We invite you to our special place in the city.  Certified Since 2010 For an appointment call: 413-788-4078 Email Our Salon

 

Ouidad Services
Ouidad Carve and Slice	80.00
Ouidad Rake & Shake Style	35.00
Ouidad Deep Treatment	25.00
Hair Cut
Men	25.00
Women	30.00*
With Michelle	40.00
Children 12 years and younger	15.00
Color
Single Application with haircut	70.00*
Single Application with blowdry	55.00*
Full Highlight with haircut	110.00*
Full Highlight with blowdry	95.00*
Partial Highlight with haircut	95.00*
Partial Highlight with blowdry	90.00*
Face Framing Highlights per foil	5.00
Color Glazing with haircut	75.00*
Color Glazing with blowdry	60.00*
Texture Waves
Texture wave with haircut	90.00*
Texture wave with blowdry	80.00*
Conditioning Treatments
Conditioning Treatment with haircut	50.00*
Conditioning Treatment with blow dry	30.00*
Special Occasions
Up-do	50.00*
Blow Dry	25.00*
Straightening with Chi Iron	35.00*

* - Prices may vary upon stylist consutation.

+ Write A Testimonial

Testimonial By: Lori

I've had Ouidad cuts several times over the years, but decided to try Gasoline Alley because it's close to my family, which gave me a better reason to make the one hour drive both ways. I loved the decor in the salon and the friendly staff. It made me feel right at home. Michelle did a great job cutting and styling my hair. I definitely think, when the word gets out about her abilities and her affiliation with Ouidad, that she's going to need to send more of her stylists for training. Getting an appointment with Michelle can be challenging, as she is booked solid for weeks at a time...found this out when I was trying to get a much needed appointment for my daughter. Plan ahead and hope for more Ouidad stylists in the salon to pick up the expected influx of curly-haired clients.

Gasoline Alley The Salon Stylist Bio Michelle Owner/Stylist Years as a Stylist: 20 The 3 words that best describe my cutting style are:  Creative, well crafted, disciplined When my clients leave the salon I want them to feel: As though I have done my best  My biggest inspiration is: Working with my young staff and teaching them and watching them grow. My favorite thing about curls is: Its challenging and a bit unpredictable, it's beautiful.  The words I live by are: In business; always strive to be better... What inspired you to be a hairstylist? My mom had a salon in our house. I have worked in a salon since I was a young girl.  My greatest professional accolades or accomplishments are: My salon, training and watching my young staff grow as professional and successful women.

 

Book your Ouidad appointment NOW! Change the way you feel about your curly

hair..Embrace your curls and DITCH THE FLATIRON!