I have always been passionate about giving back. I’m a firm believer that when a fellow human is down and experiencing turbulent times, it is essential to lend an uplifting hand. It is no secret that women feel their best when pampered. Nadia Vassell Salon is pleased to announce Be Pampered, Feel Great. We’re giving away complimentary services to five deserving women!

Do you know someone who’s recently become unemployed or suffered a traumatic event and is finding it difficult to make ends meet and/or going through bouts of depression? If so, I want you to nominate a friend or relative to Be Pampered, Feel Great! In 250 or less provide information about the nominated individual and explain why you believe she deserves to be pampered at the Nadia Vassell Salon.

Selected recipients will receive either a complimentary haircut ($105 value), hair color ($70 value) or hair extension service ($600 value).

In your submissions you must state whether you are nominating your friend or relative for a color, haircut or hair extension service. Each submission will be judged on creativity and its compelling story factor.

All entries must be received by April 30th, 2011; winners will be revealed on June 1st, 2011.

Submissions should be sent to nadiagivesback@nadiavassell.com

Five Sexy Hairstyles That Will Get You Pass the First Date

You know what they say, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression!" Keeping that old adage in mind, on a first date you definitely want to try to look good, but you don't want to look like you tried! This means the hair should be perfect; however, the trick is not to make it seem as though you've spent a lot of time coiffing it. I know it sounds like a complex game of chess where you must out think your opponent. Don't worry your pretty little heads; I've done the guess work for you! Here are five hairdos' that are guaranteed to score you a second date.

1. The Side Swept Bang. Have your bangs trimmed the day before your big day. A real man appreciates this style because during the date he can gently brush the hair away from your face. To achieve this look, hair can be blow dried to give some movement and flat ironed for the finishing touch. To help the hair remain perfectly in place, use Aveda Air Control hairspray and/or apply a dab of BedHead Stick (A Hairstick for Cool People).
   
2. The Soft Ponytail. A low one that is. This look accentuates your features and you are not constantly playing in your hair. I would suggest using big rollers or a big barrel curling iron to achieve softness; this can be done about a few hours before your date. Use a paddle brush to relax the curls, then comb the hair with your fingers and secure it with a ponytail holder. Make sure the ponytail holder doesn't have any bling; it's a distraction.
   
3. The Pin-Straight Hair. Whether you have a relaxer, Brazilian Blow-Out or a press, you cannot go wrong with this look. Just make sure that your hair has movement, meaning do not apply too much goo. A good shampoo, conditioner and leave-in will help. I love Mizani's Thermasmooth Shampoo and Conditioner; after using this combo I don't have to apply any finishing products.
   
4. The Effortless Sexy Do'. Think Kim Kardashian. Check her out on the recent Glamour Magazine cover. This look can be achieved by doing loose curls with a big barrel curling iron. Roll the curls in alternate directions; flip your head forward and relax the curls with your fingers, meaning lightly comb the curls out with your fingers. Then finish it off with Aveda Air Control; this gives minimal hold, yet with flexibility.
   
5. The Natural Do'. Wear what yo mama gave ya! If you have natural curls, embrace them; a woman with natural curls resonates confidence. And men love a confident lady. Many people with curly hair assume that they have to use millions of products to maintain the curls. Not true. So wash out the excess goo! Try Mizani True Texture Curl Balance Shampoo, True Texture Replish and True Texture Perfect Curl Defining Gel, in that order. Then you'll be good to go…on your first, second and third dates!
   

Try one of these simple, yet fabulous hairstyles and I'm sure you'll see him again...and again. Who knows, soon you just may me calling me for the perfect wedding do'. ;-)

-Nadia Vassell