When Susan Sarris spotted an advertisement for The Queens Courier/Makeover Contest in the paper, she knew her sister, Theresa Zito, would be a perfect candidate.
“My sister lost over 80 pounds last year and is still losing weight through dieting,” Sarris wrote. “She has also been through five years of caring for her father-in-law [Richard Zito], who passed away last year.”
In addition, the busy mom of two, Christopher, 8, and Nicole, 5, works as an administrative assistant for an insurance adjuster in Lake Success, L.I.
When asked if a half-day of beauty would help her relax for a few hours, the Bayside resident answered with a resounding, “Yes.”
So on Wednesday, February 28, Zito arrived at Christie & Co. Salon
At Christie’s, colorist Tricia Ritchie lightened Zito’s locks with warm highlights and gave her a rich overall mahogany hue. Stylist Bonnie Charlton cut bodybuilding layers into Zito’s already short do, and manicurist Alla Akilova polished Zito’s fingers and toes. The final touch - makeup from Lisa Pietrocola.
Afterward Zito was left nearly speechless.
“I couldn’t be happier,” she beamed. “I just called my husband and told him. I can’t remember the last time I spent this much time on myself.”
Sarris, who stopped by the Bayside salon to check out Zito’s transformation, was also stunned.
“She looks fabulous,” Sarris said, adding that she was sure Zito’s children would be thrilled with the makeover.
“They’re going to say, ‘Mom, you look beautiful,’ ” Sarris said.
