Manchester's Own Mrs. NJ to Promote Local Charity at Point Pleasant Salon

When Mrs. New Jersey’s hair stylist, Gerry McLaughlin, asked her for help in a styling class at Salon Mulan, the Manchester resident thought it would be a good way to raise awareness for her charity, as well as support the salon’s growth.

Claire Szucs-Paulinec, who won the title of Mrs. New Jersey in 2010, said that she helps others by volunteering her time and spreading awareness for her charity, Maternal Wings.

She became involved with the styling class through Gerry McLaughlin, a stylist from Utopia Salon and also a friend of 12 years.

“[McLaughlin asked] because I have a lot of hair," Szucs-Paulinec said. "And she needed someone with a lot of hair."

A class on up-do’s will be held at Salon Mulan, 2401 Bridge Ave, in Point Boro on Monday at 12 p.m. for the salon’s stylists. The class will be instructed by Rachel Gomoka, a stylist who recently returned from studying in New York City. Gonoka studied under Christine Delinski.

Dawn Domena, Salon Mulan’s marketing manager, said that it is important for the salon to keep up with the times.

“What we’re going for is to constantly keep our stylists updated with the most trendy looks,” Domena said.

Szucs-Paulinec's title come with various responsibilities. She represents the married women of New Jersey, supporting them in their roles as wives and mothers. She is also currently studying for her master’s degree, so she understands the importance of multi-tasking.

All of Salon Mulan’s hair stylists will benefit from this class. Julia Schena, the owner, Jessica Centosanti, the head stylist, Deanna LamBrutto, junior stylist, and Mary Hazelton, and on-staff stylists, will all be participating on models for the workshop.

Stylists from other salons will also participate, such as Gerry McLaughlin, who will be practicing on Mrs. New Jersey.

Szucs-Paulinec originally entered the pageant to promote Maternal Wings, the charity she founded and directs.

“I entered on a whim and was lucky enough to win,” she said.

Participating in the pageant could bring funding for the charity and she would get to travel the state for exposure, said Szucs-Paulinec, who also made it to the Top 12 for Mrs. United States.

The charity collects unneeded products from moms, such as strollers, high chairs and clothes. Donations are brought to a local clinic, cleaned up and delivered to moms throughout Ocean and Monmouth Counties who can’t afford or don’t have the means to get those items.

Mrs. New Jersey said that she understands first-hand the importance of looking your best.

“Being in the public eye and attending events and having lots of pictures taken, it’s important to have someone who’s able to make you look good,” Szucs-Paulinec said. “To have someone who knows about cuts and color and style.”