From Loretta
Traveling the world as a model sounds like the ultimate in glamorous living! It was, and I treasure every moment, but after fifteen years as an international model, it was time to share my experiences and knowledge with new, hopeful models. As talent agent and scout for Elite Chicago and a prestigious agency in Europe, I grew to love the satisfaction of steering many young women onto successful careers. The seed was planted, and I somehow knew I could find even greater joy with my own business!

In 1998, I launched LOOKS in my humble suburban basement studio as a consulting service for aspiring models. And I do mean launched! We soon moved operations to an impressive address on Oak Street in downtown Chicago. Talent agencies would send us their fresh models to learn the ropes of the business and refine their skills. Our instruction included the fine arts of make-up, dress, runway poise and stage presence. Success in the world of modeling is exclusive, if not elusive, but I have always believed each of my clients benefits from learning to be well groomed and comfortable in his or her own body. It is a passion to that belief that steered the focus of my company to total image consulting.

There was a bright spot on September 11, 2001. We opened our second office in downtown Naperville. We have been riding on a growth high ever since. Many of our clients now come to us for a non-surgical "not-so-extreme" makeover! The LOOKS store is where clients can shop for cosmetics, skincare products and top quality make-up brushes.

We are proud to announce that in September 2009, we teamed up with the reputable high-end ZANO Salons in Downtown Naperville (above Catch 35 on Washington Street).

What Makes LOOKS Unique?
It's the little extras that speak volumes! The moment you walk through the door, you enter a clean, relaxing comfort zone.

Some Accomplishments
Business has tripled in two years! Word is really spreading and we are super-excited to announce that LOOKS has hit the small screen on the NBC reality hit show "Starting Over." I am also very proud of our signature line of cosmetics, which we introduced ten years ago. It's been a big success and a huge benefit to clients who can bring the same products we apply professionally in the Studio, into their own homes. It's a high quality line with reasonable price tags. With respect for our clients sensitivities, most the products are hypoallergenic and mineral based.

How We Grew to What We Are Today
I am driven by my goal to help women, in particular, better themselves to achieve a higher level of self-confidence. And I believe in the quality of my services and products to achieve that.

Favorite Part of Owning a Business
Being excited about going to work! It's a fantastic thing. One of my original goals was to create a great working atmosphere, and I feel strongly that I've accomplished that.

Overall Impression of being an Entrepreneur?
The most important thing is that I love what I do. If each day I can make someone feel good because they look good, that's worth more money than anyone could pay me.