The Buckeye Hair Fashion Awards Model Organization of the Year was Lavish Vixenz. From left are Ayla Mone, Airy, Kierra Queen, Fernandria Nichole and Kym Doe. Photo by Antonio’s Photography
By Sonya R. Lynch
Herald Contributor
Presented by Itolduso Productions/ Cliff Fennell, local and surrounding area talents within the fashion and hair industry recently were awarded for excelling in their respective categories at the 20th Century Theater.
Emceed by KISS 107.1 FM’s Khrys Styles and Tiffany Potter, the ceremony included an array of eclectic headlining designers and chic hair and makeup artistry. With a show stopping performance from “The Cincyettes.’’ the red carpet affair proved to be an afternoon that winners and attendees would not soon forget.
“From my experience being a photographer and videographer, behind the scenes a lot of people who were responsible for these events don’t get the recognition they deserve. I’ve always wanted to create an event special for them. I felt like I had to do something about it,’’ said Fennell, who organized the event.
In a lengthy process, Fennell meticulously crafted the ceremony using current and veteran promotional tactics by handing out flyers about the show and the nominees and reaching out to different cities including Toledo to promote. Additionally, Fennell acquired a committee to assist with production and a number of sponsors including, Dayton Fashion Week, Nichole J’s Eye 4 a Tie Autism Speaks and OHFW.
Categories included Model Organization of the Year, Manicurist of the Year, Fashion Designer of the Year, Barber and Beauty Shop of the Year as well as Fashion Photographer of the year.
Voting via social media was as the main component to determine the nominees and winners.
Whitney Peek of Peek Into Beauty Salon, who excitedly accepted her award as Hairstylist of the Year, was “shocked to be nominated” and plans to use the recognition to continue to grow her business with hopes of creating a franchise.
Shermeka Jones of EsJay by Simone was awarded Clothing Designer of the Year, while ASEAYA Boutique won Clothing/Boutique of the Year category. Male Model of the Year Donni Cole Jr. and Female Model of the Year Lynncoyia Renee Bradley happily accepted their respective awards.
Bradley said she hopes to use her extended experience and recognition to reach out to the community to aspire models by “teaching them the ropes” through model training.
Marci Hon, owner of Mars Vintage Boutique, which is newly located downtown, included vintage looks turned chic for present day, while Geanine Baylor of Eninage Designs showcased a colorfully coordinated inspired family clothing line.
Belle Borders the Hair Company was also showcased as a headliner in an empowering rock themed set that featured natural hair with fashionable avant garde twist.
Fennell said he is hopeful that in the future his event will inspire while having a positive impact within the community overall.
“I want this to grow so we can celebrate and recognize people in their talents and ambitions. We all need to recognize each other for our skills daily.”
For a full list of nominees, winners, sponsors and additional event highlights please visit www.buckeyeawards.com.