Stylist hosts ‘Project Prom’

Shelbe Wegner, owner/stylist at SDW Styling in Park Falls has launched an initiative for young people to fully enjoy a high school prom experience without spending an arm and a leg to do so.

The first local Project Prom took place April 6, the day of Chequamegon High School junior prom. It was a free event for young people who came to SDW to get their hair, makeup and basic nails done. Wegner donated all aspects for the event, including time, products, swag bags and refreshments.

While attending cosmetology school in Appleton, Wegner volunteered for a similar event titled “Operation Cinderella.”

While she thought it was a great experience for both the workers and young people, it did not take place for an actual prom event. Wegner felt something of the same sort would go well in the Park Falls area, and to her knowledge has never been done before.

“I feel everyone should get to have that salon moment,” Wegner said, “and feel their best for one of the biggest events of high school.”

Wegner said the events are a good way to give back to the community. She hopes to inspire others to give back to their communities as well.

The plans include a Project Prom for Butternut students. Their junior prom is set to take place April 27. The salon will open at 10 a.m. that day and operate on a first come, first-served basis.

In the future Wegner might expand the event to include Phillips students and says she would “love to expand it into something even larger.” To that end she would like to donate dresses and shoes to the young ladies and haircuts for the young men to make it as fun and inclusive as possible. In years to come she will be looking for dress donations, event sponsors, volunteers, and any other donations to make prom a memorable time for all who want to take part.

Wegner’s salon is located at 177 Division St. inside the Park Mall in downtown Park Falls.