When creativity goes beyond artistry and becomes "Just for Fun!"

Given the current economic climate, contributions to charitable causes may seem difficult. We all know how great it feels to be part of something bigger than ourselves, to give to those less fortunate than us, to reach out and help, expecting nothing in return. We may not be able to give in the manor we have become accustomed but don’t forgo the opportunity to get creative. Think beyond the salon and spa; incorporate what you love into what you can do for others.

I’d like to share with you how I turned my passion for riding a motorcycle into a “Giving Event!” This year with the help of my friend Kelly, we’ve organized an event called “The Pajama Party Ride.” The concept is simple and may not be what you think. In honor of May being Harley Davidson’s Women Rider Month and the month of Mother’s Day, we are organizing a ride that requires each participant to bring one new pair of Pajamas which will be donated to the local Women’s Shelter.

Most times Mothers will do everything they can for their children but nothing for themselves. These women probably won’t get Mother’s Day gifts and definitely won’t spend money to buy pajamas or any other personal care items. In addition to giving Pajamas, I have contacted a few salon/spa industry companies to see if they could donate any personal care items. Within an hour, John Paul Mitchell Systems donated Lavender Mint take home kits. I am very excited to see how this event unfolds and to make it better year after year.

The idea was to keep it simple, incorporating giving into what I love to do. Use this story to see where your creativity can take you. Does the staff in your salon/spa enjoy bowling? Maybe you can organize a candlelight bowl and have all participants; staff, spouses, kids, donate something that will benefit a cause that is dear to your heart.

Money may be tight these days but it seems to me that there is no shortage of imagination and creativity, especially in our field. So don’t stop giving when money gets tight, start being creative and follow our Harley Chapter’s motto “Just for Fun!”

You may be wondering, will I be riding in my PJs? Well that could be a challenge, due to the safety needs for boots, long pants and long sleeves, but I’ll see what I can do. Watch for a follow up blog about the ride, photos will be posted on NAEFSS’s website.