Local Salon Outfits Needy Teens for Prom

From securing your dream date, to finding the perfect dress, prom can be an anxiety-inducing ordeal. And, once you add on the hefty expense of paying for the gown, shoes and hair, the event can turn you into a stress ball, instead of a princess heading to the grand ball. hopes to change that.

This Wolfs Lane salon is stepping in to donate money from each transaction it makes to Operation Prom, a non-profit that outfits girls in need for the big night.

Since 2005, Operation Prom, founded by Noel D’Allacco, has helped thousands of students in the Westchester community attend prom at little to no costs by providing free dresses and tuxedo rentals. The organization selects students who have financial needs, are in good academic standing and are recommended by their guidance counselor.

“If you work hard, you can and will be rewarded,” says Adrienne Brini, director of Nicholas Day Spa.

From now until late June, Nicholas Day Spa will host three makeover sessions for Pelham and New Rochelle teens to get their hair and make-up done on their big day. This is the salon’s second year participating.

“Once the girls had their dresses, we offered hair, nails, and make-up,” Brini said of the services her staff offered last year. “We put the final touches on the whole look.”

This year, Nicholas is matching donations from retail sales for the month of May, and using those dollars to purchase DSW shoe gift cards. The inspiration behind the gift cards was simple: The Department of Social Services prohibits the donation of used footwear. With the cards, the teens can scour the shelves for the heels that tie their whole outfit together. Brini said the salon will also accept donations of unused hair accessories or beauty products.

"What I really liked about Operation Prom is that it's a reflection for all of us. Prom is something you’ll always remember,” Brini said. “With this, girls have all the pieces to the puzzle—mainly looking their best, feeling like a princess, and learning how to work with their hair. For one night, these girls get to feel special and beautiful.”

Brini continues to have high aspirations for the project.

“We’re hoping every year to make it a little bit better,” Brini noted. “Every year we want it to grow and make it worthwhile."