Divorce: Finding an Oasis in a Time of Transition

Chicago's DIVORCE MAGAZINE Profile - Winter 98/99

A beauty salon can be an oasis in a time of transition. At Teddie Kossof Salon, Spa and Wellness Center, a listening ear is as important as a pampering makeover.

When we really look and feel beautiful and handsome, we are full of spirit, and our confidence level builds.

Put the divorce behind you. Get yourself back into circulation. You've got a lot of catching up to do now that you're single again, so get out there and get it done. There are steps both women and men can take to make themselves look and feel better, help them cope with the transition, and get back into the mainstream.

"When we really look and feel beautiful and handsome, we are full of spirit, and our confidence level builds," says Teddie Kossof, owner/operator of the Teddie Kossof Salon, Spa and Wellness Center in Northfield, and one of the most highly regarded and successful entrepreneurs in the beauty and health business.

"When we are hitting all cylinders, life sounds like a symphony and feels like a warm, soothing whirlpool," says Kossof. "Inside and out we exude a positive attitude, which tells the world we feel great about ourselves." The first step, he says, is to become attractive again. Femininity has again become a priority for women as they vie in a highly competitive working world dominated by men, while men are more emotionally sensitive than ever before. These factors, he believes, will shape the way people will live their new lives.

A makeover, including a fresh cut and hairstyle, is a good place for women to start, according to Kossof. Women, especially those in their 40s and 50s, should highlight their hair, and get rid of the gray. He also believes both men and women should get in physical shape and take a spiritual approach to their psyche.

At a time when a woman or man has gone through an emotional wringer, being pampered physically can be heavenly.

"Usually, when the relationship takes it's worst turn, couples let themselves go physically. They look as sour as they feel," says Kossof. "When divorce becomes official, they look into the mirror and more often than not will be unhappy with what they see. That's the time to decide to make over your physical and emotional life."

Kossof's salon is the kind of welcome respite divorcees need in their time of travail, providing a holistic and complete approach to health and beauty needs of its clientele. The beauty emporium is the country's largest of it's kind under one roof, with more than 65 professionals and as well as a cosmetic dentist, personal trainer, clothing and jewelry boutique, and day Spa on site. "We provide a perfect atmosphere for those coming out of failed relationships," says Kossof. "But best of all, our people - from manicurist to masseuse - are in tune with our clients' emotional and physical needs."

At a time when a woman or man has gone through an emotional wringer, being pampered physically can be heavenly. Verbalizing your fears and hopes to someone who is interested in your life but nonjudgmental can be just as fulfilling. "By being really good listeners and sending out our own emotional, supportive vibes, we create a kind of cocoon for those in emotional distress," says Kossof of his full-service staff. "Our commitment to the beauty and health needs of our clients, to the community, and to the beauty industry will never stop."