Have you ever considered being a hair stylist? I heard once that, in terms of career choice, hairdressers were measurably happier than anyone. I believe it; certainly last night’s #BornToStyle event at the Aveda Institute on King St. East was an incredibly joyous occasion.

Five aspiring hair stylists competed in the #BornToStyle finale by creating an overall look for their selected model (most were their BFFs) including hair, makeup and outfit. They had a set time to create their look and then it was a strict "BRUSHES DOWN!" before their models hit the catwalk. I was honoured to be a judge alongside iwantigot’s Anita Clarke and Aveda founder Ray Civello. Our criteria for judging included the overall transformation of model, whether the look suited the model, technical intricacies and details (i.e how impressive was the up-do?) and most importantly, creative ingenuity! Stakes were high as the winning girl would receive a $10,000 scholarship to attend the Aveda Institute. WOW! #Lifechanging.

Friends and parents came out to cheer the contestants on and Toronto media were also in attendance, eager to support such a wonderful event. Miss Teen Ontario-World, Sacha Stewart, was spotted running around the studio space, snapping pics with models. She is very sweet. And small.

While judges deliberated, guests got Aveda hand massages (best party favour ever) and were passed trays of Aveda lipsticks and gloss for makeup touch ups (second best party favour ever!).

So who won? DRUMROLLLLLLLLLLL! In an uprecedented move, Ray Civello surprised everyone (including fellow judges) and awarded both Meladee Gammelsetter and Jessie lacina a $10,000 scholarship. Well played, Ray. Very well played.

It was an inspiring, fun, heartwarming event and I was delighted to have been included.

Follow Aveda on Twitter @Aveda416…maybe you will enter next year?

P.S If you want a really good haircut that isn’t expensive, book an appointment with a hairdresser in training! See deets on the Aveda Institute site.

~ Photos by Becca Lemire