Ashaleena White smiled as Traci Chepoda carefully applied eyeliner.

"I didn't think I would win the total makeover contest sponsored by the Ranger Newspaper," said White.

"Then I got a call from the salon, and that's when it hit me."

White said that between raising her son and going to school to become a ultrasound technician, she rarely has the time to work on her hair and to put on makeup.

The makeover literally changed all of that.

LaBelle Salon & Spa in Yelm provided the makeover, which consisted of a haircut and a complete makeover during a two-hour session.

"It is a great idea for us to be a part of this event," said spa owner Bonnie Inman as she kept an eye on her busy salon.

"As to getting a total makeover, I think women - especially those whose husbands are deployed - should remember to pamper themselves, to give themselves a break."

Meanwhile, Chepoda, a second-generation cosmetic artist and hair stylist with almost three decades of experience, continued to work on White's eyelids.

"The sparkles will add some allure," commented Chepoda.

As she worked, she explained to White what she was doing and how it would enhance her beauty.

"This makeover will bring out the intensity of her beauty; everyone has beauty and it should show," continued Chepoda.

She went on to say that her work is her passion and that she wants all of her customers leaving the salon happy.

White left the salon very happy with the results.

"This makeover makes her look fresh," commented hair stylist Amber Mayer, as she prepared for her next customer.

"I think Ashaleena has stepped back and put a little focus on herself, and that is a good thing."

For more information about a makeover, contact LaBelle Salon & Spa at (360) 400-2022.