Guess who's headed to NYC & the Chanel corporate office?

Guess who's headed to NYC & the Chanel corporate office? Ok, not me. I only wish it was me. But one fashionable lady from our fair city will soon be winging her way to the Big Apple and we're delighted to announce who & why.

"Hala Valekis, Chanel Counter Manager at Belk Summit in Birmingham, was recently recognized as the 2011 Chanel Department Store Counter Manager of the Year for the Mid-Atlantic region!  She is one of only 16 Chanel Counter Managers from both Department and Specialty store divisions to receive this recognition.  What is even more exciting is that from among the 16 recipients of this coveted award, Hala has been selected from 735 of her peers to join the prestigious Elite Eight Counter Managers of the Year!

Valekis was elected to the Elite Eight due to her passion for the Chanel brand, excellence in her goal attainment, clienteling and communication skills.  “Hala possesses superior service and sales skills,” said Becky Blair, DMC, “She exemplifies what a Belk Cosmetic associate should be.”  Valekis also stood out for her leadership, team development and overall drive for success.  Valekis has executed all Chanel events “with precision and with results through an extensive clientele list,” said Susan Held, Belk Summit Store Manager, “She has developed a team which has the same drive.”

Hala will be recognized for her accomplishment with a trip to New York City May 15-17 to visit the Chanel corporate offices, a beautiful pair of Chanel earrings, membership into a Chanel Field Advisory Committee and the acclaim of being one of Chanel’s Elite Counter Managers."

Congratulations to Hala from everyone here at the Birmingham Fashion Blog.

Also wanted to mention that Jennifer Puckett, the Bobbie Brown counter manager at Belk Riverchase Galleria has been named one of the top 100 make-up artist in the US by the esteemed Elle Magazine.

Congratulations to Jennifer also!