Wendy is a 49-year-old woman from Bridgeport, Connecticut. She works as a part-time librarian.
She is single, has no children, and has not cut her hair in eight and a half years.
Yes, you read that correctly.
Wendy has grown out her hair three times, and when she would undergo a heavy chop, she would donate her hair.
But she does admit that her long hair can be difficult to take care of, especially during humid days.
Often times, she will braid her hair, wear it up in a bun (as picture below), or just leave it be.
But her long hair would sometimes cause her trouble – she would get it stuck in people’s glasses, in their jewelry, jammed in doorways, and more.
As Wendy approached her 50th birthday, she decided it was time for a change.
She was also searching for a full-time job opportunity. Though she loves her role at the library and wishes it was full-time, that is not the case. She has been interviewing for full-time roles in the meantime.
Wendy decided that a new hairstyle would give her a boost of confidence as she attended her interviews – and maybe even help her out in the love department.
But her job search isn’t the only thing that inspired Wendy to undergo this extreme makeover.
Wendy’s mother passed away at 50 years old, making Wendy’s upcoming birthday even more meaningful to her. She decided to honor her mother by living her life to the fullest and being the best version of herself she can be.
Nevertheless, this wasn’t a decision that came easy to Wendy.
Everyone knew her by her long hair. Her hair was part of her identity.
“All of that is really scary to think that it’s just going to change, but life is change,” Wendy says about her decision to cut off her hair.
In addition to her new hairstyle, her wardrobe would be changed as well.
Wendy described her style as “bohemian” – she likes flowing skirts and dresses, as well as colors, patterns and florals. She’s also a firm believer of shopping in clearance or at the thrift store.
“The world should have more color in it,” Wendy believes.
Rachael Ray caught wind that Wendy, a viewer of her show, had not cut her signature long hair in over eight years. So Rachael and her team of stylists offered Wendy a full makeover – and Wendy was happy to oblige.
Wendy agreed to have her hair chopped live in front of a studio audience and viewers at home.
As the stylist cut his way through Wendy’s hair, the audience was in shock.
But cutting off the initial length of Wendy’s hair was just the first step. Finally, it came time for the big reveal.
How did Wendy react to her new makeover? Well, I think this picture speaks 1,000 words.
“I don’t recognize myself,” she said. “I feel like such a different person.”
“I feel so free and light,” she added.
What an amazing transformation! Doesn’t she look great? Here’s to hoping 50 is another wonderful chapter in Wendy’s life!
Watch the video below.
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