Getting ahead of the holidays

A couple of local events are happening this weekend to help prep and perfect your look for the holiday season.

On Friday and Saturday, Aveda Institute Charlotte is offering complimentary makeup applications and holiday hair styling. If you're already in Christmas shopping mode, there's the added bonus of a free shampoo and style with the purchase of two full-size Aveda products.

The institute is located at 1520 South Blvd. Ste. 150, Charlotte. Additional details: 704-333 9940, info@aicharlotte.biz.

Also on Saturday, Charlotte Plastic Surgery will host its Fall Skincare open house from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its Uptown location, 2215 Randolph Road.

This event includes specials on skin care products, injections and surgeries. The open house will also feature raffles and giveaways, the biggest of which is the facial rejuvenation package. This consists of two laser treatments, SkinMedica products, Botox and Juvederm. (Package valued at roughly $2,600.)

Doctors, estheticians and staff will be available to answer questions on procedures, products, etc. Additional details: 704-372-6846.704704.372.6846.372.6846704.372.6846

(Also, keep an eye out next week: CPS Skin Health Specialist Melody Robinson shares tips and recommendations on keeping that glowing complexion now that heating systems have kicked on.)

No RSVP is required for either event.

And now that you've hauled out your winter wardrobe and identified the items that no longer fit/you're not loving anymore...

The Delta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority will host two clothing drives for business attire and related items, from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Delta Zeta Chapter property, 4248 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte.

The following items are requested in good, presentable condition.

For men: Solid colored suits (navy, black or dark gray); white or off-white shirts; dress slacks (navy, black or dark gray) and ties.(No bold colors or patterns, please.)

For women: Suits (navy, black or dark gray)' white or light-colored blouses; dress pants and knee-length skirts (navy, black or dark gray.)

Other items: Plain cover portfolios, computer bags, resume paper, etc.

As part of the Delta Zeta Chapter's 79th anniversary, members want to help those who are seeking employment (but are short on resources) look their best. All the donations will be distributed back into the local community, whether through a city-wide announcement or through an assistance service partner. (The method will depend on how many items have been donated.)

Details or questions: www.zetasofcharlotte.org.