This is the third consecutive year that I chose to support one of my favourite beauty events in Toronto: Beautylicious. From Oct.22 to Nov.1, it is once again being held in the trendy and luxurious neighbourhood of Bloor-Yorkville.

The only event of its kind in Canada, Beautylicious has over 50 participating businesses in 2015, and continues to offer packages for men and women in four categories: hair, spa, skin, and health and wellness.

I had two experiences planned for the event and they were both very memorable.

A special hair makeover

For my hairstyling experience, I opted for a haircut, hair treatment and blow dry at the Anthony Passero salon. This high-end venue opened a year ago and I remember attending its launch party with my mother. We were both impressed by the professionalism of all staff. I recalled that it was a family business, and was eager to come back and review it, now that it was fully operational.

My hairstylist was the very cool Ilona Reece, who I instantly bonded with over our discussions about travel, Europe (she is originally German) and funky hairstyles. I came to the salon with a very specific goal: I wanted to return to the same look I had for almost six years, before growing my hair long for the wedding. I wanted my bangs back!

Ilona skillfully added layers, re-created my bangs and styled my hair to perfection. The trim she did was probably the best I’ve ever seen. It was impeccable and you can see it in its full glory in the photos below.

Two bonus points for the salon: they have lockers where you can leave your bags before your appointment, and massage chairs that massage you while you are having your hair washed.

A special beauty makeover

I was looking forward to my appointment with Leslie Kay Tomkinson. She has worked in the beauty industry for over a decade and has trained hundreds of make-up artists over the years. At her new studio, she offers comprehensive training to beauty professionals and anyone who is interested to join the cosmetics industry. Make-up sessions include highlight and contour, editorial, creative, bridal and custom courses.

In addition, Leslie Kay herself offers make-up appointments for special events, and has her own line of cosmetics, which she sells at the studio and online. The make-up is paraben and cruelty-free. It is made in Toronto and the skincare assortment — in British Columbia. The make-up line is available in a variety of shades and what I liked the most about it is that there were no over-the-top sparkly colours. Everything was classically elegant.

For my look, Leslie Kay opted for high-definition make-up to ensure that it looked flawless for the rest of the evening, as I headed to fashion shows immediately after our appointment. I was particularly happy about the quality of the product, as I hardly felt it on my face!

We chose a subtle eyeliner and put the focus on plum-coloured lips. It was a natural look with a feminine touch. Here is what it looked like.

My final look was photographed by FAJO‘s photographer Darrell Diljohn of LoveLost Photography. I wore a dress by renowned Canadian designer Rachel Sin and absolutely loved the whole look and experience.

Until next year, Beautylicious!