When we think of giving ourselves a new look or freshening up our appearance we often think it will involve a great expense. While having a fresh look for the new year is a goal of many people, taking care of one’s budget is also high on the list of resolutions.

Latasha Cross, owner and operator of Forever Glamorous, said that both are a priority for her and her staff. Great products, reasonable prices and excellent service are the norm and expectation of Cross and the staff at Forever Glamorous. In fact, her store’s products often have prices lower than those on virtual web stores. Believe it or not.

Forever Glamorous, conveniently located at 1412 N. Prospect Ave., Champaign, in the strip mall on the southeast corner of Prospect and Bloomington Road, is a go-to destination for all things hair.

“What do we offer? Where do I start? Hair care products, hair extensions, accessories like jewelry, make-up and apparel,” Cross said.

This beautiful woman is a walking advertisement for her shop, too. While she met with At Home in Central Illinois, customers walked in and out constantly, buying products and getting great deals. Many waited patiently for her advice and consult. Still others gave her a hug.

It’s obvious that you get more than hair products at Forever Glamorous. It’s a wonder that a shop on Prospect has a community feeling and vibe to it, but it truly does.

Cross managed the business for about 18 years for Richard Ko, the owner at the time.

Then Ko decided to retire.

“He was confident in me. I think I was comfortable stepping up into the role as owner, because I had basically run the entire shop for many years — payroll, scheduling, the day-to-day operations,” she said from behind the gleaming glass counter at the front of the store.

She had the experience — she even ran a salon in her home early in her career — and wanted to go for it.

This 3,200-square-foot shop of hair and beauty possibilities opened under the ownership of Cross about two years ago. However, Cross decided they needed to reopen at a new location, which happened in June 2016.

They completely rehabbed the store to its current condition. It’s very upscale, with an artistic flair.

“I wanted to make that move. I have the experience, and I decided to just take that leap and go for it,” she said with a big smile.

She’s always offering new features.

“One of our newer features is eyelash extensions. They actually are easier to put in and quicker than regular mascara,” she said.

Another feature she is working on has a more personal tug at the heart. Cross was diagnosed at the age of 32 with breast cancer, and because of her experience, she wants to assist those experiencing hair loss from chemotherapy with quality, low-cost wigs.

She said she is blessed to do this for customers. At the age of 32, regular health care doesn’t normally include mammograms.

“I just knew something was wrong,” she said.

She caught it early.

“I found out that it was stage zero. I’m so blessed. I now have the passion to reach out and help others with wigs to help endure chemo,” she said.

They are expanding their line, too.

“If someone comes in, we will work with them,” she said.

She has a great staff and they provide excellent service, she said.

“Love is very empowering,” she said.

Looking good for you and those you love is powerful, she said. Cross, a woman of great faith, is very excited for the future of her shop.

“We’re open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or call us at 217-351-8141. Come in. We will help you,” she said.

For more information, go to facebook.com/Forever-Glamorous. **

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