Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Makeover for glam studio in tough times
Empty salon turned into toy bank
HAIRDRESSERS, makeup artists and nail salons have had to close their doors for four weeks due to new coronavirus regulations.
The strict measures have been in place for one week now and are set to last until Friday, November 13.
And while business owners in the industry have been left devastated by the decision by the NI Executive, one salon has turned their frustration into determination to help families in need.
The Glam Studio, in Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, will now use their empty salon space as a toy bank for children this Christmas.
They celebrated their opening in February but weeks later had to shut.
Matthew Mcilveen told the Mirror : “We were just devastated when we learned that we would have to close for a second time after putting our all into making the salon safe.
“Now we have decided to turn this real negative, of having to close for a second time, into something a bit more positive by running a toy bank campaign.”
T h e G l a m S tu d i o’s t o y s c h e me launches on Monday morning and Matthew, along with fellow owners Katrina O’hare and Chloe Rosbotham, are appealing for help.
Big name brands such as Bperfect,
Revolution and Carmex have pledged their support.
Matthew said: “If you would like to donate, get in touch with us.
“And if there is someone out there watching this who will be in need of Christmas presents this year, we do not need to know your name or your address.
“Just drop a note through the salon door or send us a message on Facebook, please don’t feel ashamed. We will help you.”
Just drop a note through the door, send us a message on Facebook. We will help you MATTHEW MCILVEEN CO ANTRIM YESTERDAY