<b>By Takiya La’Shaune Smith</b>

At the onset of the season and with the holidays fully upon us, the invites have been mailed, parties have started and guest have began to arrive. Appointments have been made, dates have been set and calendars are clearly marked. Trips to the salon, leisure at the spa and visits to shops are made. Businesses are buzzing and beauty, as obsolete as it sounds, is at the center of it all.

This in fact was my “light bulb” discovery about four years ago upon entering the fashion and beauty industry. The holidays, for several reasons, are the start and beginning of many joyous occasions such as the celebration of family, friends, a time of thanks, the birth of Christ and the entrance of a new year. Most of all, celebrations that are surrounded with good food, lots of fashion and beautiful people.

For me, the notable incline of the beauty extravaganza begins mid-October at the start of the annual Marine Corps Ball birthday celebration in November. Ladies need their hair done, lashes amplified and brows polished. Men, likewise desire a fresh clean cut, well groomed brows and even a facial here and there.

Moving forward, on through November and reflecting on a time to give thanks, we gather amongst friends, family and loved ones to share our appreciation for life itself. Again, beauty businesses are buzzing as chairs are filled and appointments are booked for holiday hair and glam makeovers.

On through Christmas and well into the New Year, something about the season brings out the physically aesthetic best in us. A party isn’t a party without food or friends, likewise, the season isn’t without reason where beauty and self-expression are concerned. Have fun! Wear that cute cocktail dress you’ve been eyeing, buy those heels you’ve been exploring and throw on the lip color that’s least expected. Look good, feel great, make a statement and beYOUtiful! Tis the season!

<i>Takiya La’Shaune Smith, licensed cosmetologist, mentor and owner of Beautique Lash &amp; Brow, is an author and beauty columnist promoting inner and outer beauty, self-esteem, preservation and awareness. Follow her blog at www.blb-boutiques.com, find her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TakiyaLSmith, email her Takiya@Takiya-LaShaune.com or contact her at 843-263-0426.</i>