Has Anybody tried a transformation service?

[AKADonna]

Although I have been CD'ing for many years, I have always made up my own clothing, makeup, appearance, etc. and have kept this completely to myself. I feel that my femme appearance is that of a 'guy trying to look like a girl' rather than really feminine.

I want to 'step out' a bit - but without a lot of embarrassment, etc. I am considering a visit to a place in Atlanta called "Explore Your Feminine Side". From their website, it would appear that I could visit there for several hours (or even overnight), be assisted in proper foundations, dresses, wigs, makeup, walking and talking more feminine and perhaps even venturing "out" en femme in a strange city.

Has anyone experienced such a service? The service would appear to be a great match for my interests and fears - if it is for real. Are there other places such as this that I should consider? I feel that actually talking to someone about my CD would help me emotionally and give me more confidence.

Are there other alternatives? How about local meet-up groups? Are they really private or would I feel completely out of place? What do you think?

[insearchofme]

I've been to Janet's Closet in Detroit twice. Guess going twice shows that i loved it. If I hadn't moved away I'd go again.

[AndreaS]

There is another lady in the Atlanta area that does the same thing. Check out her site at www.phoebecross.com. I used her once over 10 years ago and she is a really sweet lady. Her place is pretty far out in the country, but she will definitely treat you with respect. The "Explore Your Feminine Side" place may be a lot more convenient for you, but I haven't heard her ever mentioned before.

[janet p]

Yes there are many locations like that around. Here in Vegas alot of us go to Glamour Boutique 2 the girls there do a great job of transforming us and they have tours and events all the time. We also go there just to hang out and visit dressed or in drab. P.S. My avaitar pic was taken there.

[Zoie]

They need this in every state

[naye]

I have tried those services twice in two different places and I can tell you that is a great experience, both times I was quite nervous when I arrived and knock the door, the first time in the first transformation house I was received by a GG that was really kind with me, and almost inmediatly she makes me feal real comfortable, she only ask for my girly name, and explained to me everything, and let me choose what ever I wanted to wear and make a wonderful job with my makeup, it was the first time that I really felt like a woman, the second time was at another transformation house, but this time I was attended by a beautiful CD, it was also a great time, everybody should try that experience!!!

[JustineFallow]

If you find yourself in Toronto, you should check out Take A Walk On The Wildside (http://www.wildside.org). And I've not had a makeover at Janet's Closet yet, but shopped plenty there!

[Cassandra Lynn]

They need this in every state

A big AMEN to that!
As far as i know the closest we have to this is a make-up salon that employs a TG person who will do a basic make-up transformation.
Others here i have spoken to have been to Sephora and MAC, but i don't know of a full service place anywhere in Idaho. There is a place in the Reno, Nv. area, but i don't believe they provide clothing.
mj (Cassie)

[Ashlee]

I've been to Jamie Austin up here in Mass. like....8 times if memory serves. Lots of fun!!

[julie w]

I went years ago my first time out of the closet , it was fun it was my first time with a wig ,they tend to give you a drag queen look
its good if you don't have the opportunity to dress at home ,but its best to learn to do it yourself

[Katesback]

I've been to Janet's Closet in Detroit twice. Guess going twice shows that i loved it. If I hadn't moved away I'd go again.

God your statment brings back memories I had forgotten. Back in my crossdressing days I too went to Janet's when i lived in Michigan. She was impressive and had the ability to make a guy (as the world saw) look very much like a girl.

Thinking back perhaps her services were one of the catalists for getting me the strength to transition. Now days life as a girl is all I have but I will always remember Janet.

Katie

[msginaadoll]

Count me in as also a person who has gone to Janet's Closet. More times than my wallet or purse cares to remember. Tips from her and her staff have been of a great benefit.

[Maija]

I wish there was a place here in Cincinnati. I would love to go.

[Cheryl James]

I have been to Phoebe Cross near Atlanta once. It was one of the best experiences ever. I have no way of knowing whether everyone who provides this service is as warm and accepting as her, but you won't know until you go.

[denisecdfl]

I have been to many in the last 7 years, and have never had a bad experience. I especially enjoy the ones who have their own clothes and wigs and costumes, so you can try for a new look. My favorites are Gina in LA and Stephanie Danderson in Vegas.
You can stay overnight with Phoebe Cross and play in her huge closet. Vicki Rene has a section on transformation service web site from all over the world, although some are no longer active. Most have service and price lists and galleries.

[celeste26]

The only thing I might add is that these services usually cost a lot of money but if you need some help getting ready for the "outside" take lessons there instead of just the transformation the additional cost will set you free to do it yourself later.

[StaceyJane]

I went to Femme X in Dallas. I had a great time and my avatar pic was taken then. The only problem is that it did cost a lot of money.
Now days I go out when I want to and I can try on clothes in the store.

[sabrinaedwards]

Great question. I was at a place in Toronto, and I loved the transformation. After paying the fee, the customer could select the look and spend the day at the establisment. I also had several session at a place in Buffalo, NY (now closed) called Miss Suzie's. I have nothing but great memories of those places.

[Carmon]

I'm considering having my first make over at Janet's Closet. I'm a little nervous about making the trip and then backing-out at the last minute. I was also wondering how long it takes to complete.

[SuzanneBender]

These services can be a bit expensive, but they are a great opportunity for a new T Gal to get her "Galness On" out side of the boudoir or a hotel room. My memoiries of my transformation experiences are wonderful milestones on my femme journey. I went to a couple of transformation salons a few years back when Suzanne was just steppin out into the world. I don't even know if they still exist. One was Roris in Chicago and the other was Lydia's TV in LA. Both were wonderful shops and I indulged in a make-over/lesson at both.

The techniques that they teach at these salons and the makeup they sell are typically way heavier than I have grown to like. However, the basic shadowing techniques have served me well as I have grown as a woman. I will also say that these salons do not compare in the least to the feeling of sitting in the middle of a Nordies or Macy's getting a makeover or the pampering you get in a good nail salon.

[sissystephanie]

In my many years as a CD I have been to many Transformation places. In my own opinion, Phoebe's in Atlanta is absolutely the best available. Now having said that, I will add that I have never been to a bad one. It is just that she is so good, you will definitely feel like the girl that you hope to be when there. She almost made me change my mind about never becoming a female!!

[NathalieX66]

These services can be a bit expensive, but they are a great opportunity for a new T Gal to get her "Galness On" out side of the boudoir or a hotel room. My memoiries of my transformation experiences are wonderful milestones on my femme journey. .

Ditto, exactly!....That's how I started.
And precisely 14 months ago. I went to Glamour Boutique in New Jersey.

However, afterwards I learned a lot in a very short time, mustered the courage to sit in a chair and have makeup applied to my face by pros at M.A.C, and Bare Esscentuals. Now they know me by name.

[Nancie64]

As a senior citizen, you have to look a little harder to find a comfortable place to have a makeover and I did find such a place. My last trip to Vegas I went to the Tgirlstore.com and had it done by Stephanie. I have had makeovers before and have tried so hard to do the make up myself, not really satisfied most times. She did a wonderful job. I could not believe my eyes when she finished. I feeled great. My avatar was from a makeover in Vegas, the pic in my profile was from the Tgirlstore.

[Lori Robins]

Hiya, I went to one in Vegas (Just You - Glamour Botique 2) when I got married there in 2009 and had my makeup done and it was great. I was the bride (of course!!) and was all dressed up in my wedding dress. I have some photos on my profile. It was the first time I had ever had it done professionally and I was very happy with the results.

[latinacdtx26]

just wondering...as far as reputation or just reccomendations is there one or 2 services like these that regardless of location is worth the price totally? I havent come across any as of yet..that have caught my eye. I wish there were more before and after photos. I see alot of drag queens online and at shows and stuff and kinda think wish they did those services...because alot of them...you cant tell at all. makeup and everything is just flawless.

[Sometimes Steffi]

Dollar for dollar, the best money I every spent on CDing.

I went to Vanity's in Houston

http://vanitytransformations.com/

where she did a makeover on me and took some face shots. I got 4 face shots. I wore my own clothes and went out to lunch and shopping when I was done. I don't think anyone knew until I talked.

I also went to Amanda Rich in Philadelphia

http://www.truecolorsmakeup.com/

I got the makeover and photoshoot including over 250 pictures

Read all about it here

http://www.crossdressers.com/forums/showthread.php?143604-My-Makeover-and-Photo-Session-with-Amanda-Rich

What convinced me to go to Amanda was Jamie's post here

http://www.crossdressers.com/forums/showthread.php?140971-My-Best-Pictures-Yet!

Both Amanda and Vanity are CDs and presented as male during the makeover.

If you're just looking for makeup help, I'd go to MAC. One day I will get up the muffins to go there myself. Both Amanda and Vanity used makeup tricks that I'd probably never do myself, like taping my eye brows up to get a feminine arch without a face lift.

I won't post a before picture, but just envision a balding fifty something man that no one would even look twice at in male mode. En femme, I think I looked beautiful, even hot. I would hit on me, except that I never hit on girls that beautiful.

Steffi

[Sheren Kelly]

I will say this, before going know what look you want and make sure they understand. The few times I have had my makeup done by others, I felt more like a Drag Queen (no disrespect intended). My style is more of the everyday/understated look. If you want to go out in the day and "pass" then minimalization is the key. If you want to go clubbing, then by all meanns pull out the stops!

[Sarasometimes]

I have been to several and the best is no longer around, she retired. Glamour Boutique is a great place to shop and they do do makeovers... David, who runs the place is very ethical and has a GG for doing makeup. I haven't tried her but hear she is fairly good. i perfer to go to regular salons for makeup. Glamour Boutique is also the most reasonable one around NJ. I went to Femme Fever and it was HORRIBLE!! CD tips in Philly was high pressure and costly. I hope you have better success. Sara

[Dawna Ellen Bays]

I have an appointment at Amanda's in January. This is my absolute first step out of the closet, and it's a Christmas gift to myself. I've seen the work shes done on some of us here, and I know she can make me the glamour girl I want to see in the mirror at least this once...

Sara: what do you mean by "high pressure" at CD Tips?

[divamissz]

Most transformation services are expensive, but you get what you pay for-their expertise, wardrobe, etc. What you are paying for is someone who knows how to make you look more feminine, provide you with clothing that fits, and instruct you on how to be more ladylike. Plus taking your picture, taking you out and so on. This is a specialized market, which means a higher going rate.

If you are going to a transformation service, talk to them about what you want to achieve. Do you want high glam, drag, girl's night out, soccer mom out to dinner, etc? Let them know so they can adjust their style to achieve what you want. You're paying for it, and a good service will listen to you. But also remember that they're makeup artists and stylists, not witches, so be realistic in your expectations.

I have only used a transformation service once-Transformations by Rori in Chicago. And then, it was just for a makeover because I was in town for a conference and I wanted to go out en femme and it was easier to pay someone to do my makeup than bring it with me. At the time, they charged $75 for a makeover and I thought the results were well worth it. They did my makeup perfectly, and I actually learned a lot from watching them.

[BeingMyself]

I think going through the full transformation is a huge step that I have not garnered the courage to do. I think it would hurt my family too much. I do cross dress occasionally because I can't help it but my actions affect my family and I don't want their lives to be harder.
__________
When is (http://www.chacha.com/topic/when-is) the world going to be fully enlightened to the truth?

[sometimes_miss]

What I really want, is for a woman to care enough about me to want to make me as pretty as I can be. To have to pay for someone to do that, is basically acknowledging that there really is no one that wants me dressed as a female, and I know that already.

[Laura_Stephens]

Any good transformation salons in Ohio?

[Jorja]

They need this in every state

Start one in your area ;)

[Jorja]

Any good transformation salons in Ohio?

Not that I am aware of. You need to start one up ;)

[DebsUK]

My first public dressing was with Transformations, a UK chain who charge a fortune. I don't think the results were that good. They caked on thick, orangey makeup, gave me ill-fitting clothes and just left me on my ownwith a crappy Polaroid picture. In the case of Transformations I feel they are a bit of an evil empire that prefer to keep the transgendered in the closet implying they are the only ones that understand, but I do have friends that have used other services and had much better results and good photos to prove it. On the other hand I do resent paying as much for a couple of hours dressed that I could buy half a wardrobe's worth of clothes, shoes and makeup with. Mind you when I did do my makeover eBay didn't exist...

[Rinoah06]

Any near south Carolina?

[TSchapes]

If you are looking for one in Atlanta, why not go to the Southern Comfort Conference? There's always a couple of transformation artists there. I used Jamie Austin twice. You can see my photos in my album and on my blog. He does a great job, IMHO.

Love, Tracy

[BriannaCD]

The only thing I might add is that these services usually cost a lot of money but if you need some help getting ready for the "outside" take lessons there instead of just the transformation the additional cost will set you free to do it yourself later.

Celeste,

I ran across an older post of yours somewhere on here that said you had been to a service before. Was it to the one in Portland called Over The Rainbow? I would be interested in your thoughts about this place and what your pictures looked like.

I too, am from Salem. Hope to hear form you.


Bri

[Rogina B]

Kate....You mean that you were once a CROSSDRESSER? And someone GAVE YOU strength? Wow,Are you coming around!!!

[mmarmstrong5]

I've never tried one but would be open to the idea. Does anyone know of any good transformation services in the Toronto area, other than wildside?

[Sally R.]

Been to Rori's in Chicago 3 times and loved it.

[monalisa]

I also went to Miss Suzie's in Buffalo for a transformation and was sad to see it close. Sometimes you see people advertising on Craigslist for beauty services and they will do makeovers and photograhy much cheaper then the so called transformation studios. Worth a try in all areas.

[HannahF6]

I used a transformation place in Vancouver that has since shut down. I mainly used it because I wanted lessons in using makeup and also she agreed to take me out safely. It was a lot of fun. I've also used "Take a walk on the wild sie" on a business trip to Toronto. Both transformations were handled very professionally and I had a great time.

[AKAMichelle]

We have one here in Denver. It is run by Phyllis Steigelmeier of Phyllis Fantasies. She does makeovers, owns a shop where you can buy wigs / breastforms / shoes / clothes and will take you out on the town if you so desire. One of her best features is Fantasy House where you can stay. This is completely private and secure for those times that you want to get away from the world.

She does a great job and has been a tremendous help to most of us in Denver.

[AKAMichelle]

just wondering...as far as reputation or just reccomendations is there one or 2 services like these that regardless of location is worth the price totally? I havent come across any as of yet..that have caught my eye. I wish there were more before and after photos. I see alot of drag queens online and at shows and stuff and kinda think wish they did those services...because alot of them...you cant tell at all. makeup and everything is just flawless.

In Dallas you have Femme X Studios. Nicci runs it and I have seen some of her work. It is definitely impressive.

[michelesil]

not yet, in my country there aren't many studios like in the usa. It makes me so jealous of you girls! Maybe in my next trip.

[lexinicole]

I was pleased with Adam to Eve in San Francisco but I don't think it's up and running anymore. Will be a little while before I have another one of these adventures but I'm sure looking forward to it! Thanks for starting this thread. Thanks to everyone for the great responses. Tons of good info here!

[sexymarce38]

does anyone knows of transformations services in ft lauderdale? tx

[Marcie R.]

A few years ago I went to "A Walk On The Wild Side" in Toronto. It is a very interesting place, with facilities to take you through a full transformation. I did not use that service but I did purchase some great products in their shop. I also stayed for a few hours in the evening when they had a get together with other CD's. You can check out their location on their web page, under, the name stated above

[Emjay]

They need this in every state

I agree! I wish there was one here in Indy, I would SOOOO be there! :)

maybe there is, and I just haven't found it yet.... hmmmm.....

[Nancie64]

I am all for one in each state. Don't know if I would trust someone who is on Craig's List. Your pictures. if you have some taken, might end up someplace where you may not want them. I did have a makeover at the GB in Vegas about 5 years ago but felt like she just pasted my face over, might be different now. The last 2 times I went to Stephanie. Last October and a year ago October. The 1st time I was impressed, couldn't beleive my eyes, my avatar is from that time. Last October she tried some different things and I wasn't as pleased. Planning on going back in October and will have another one done. Will see how this goes. I may try Rori's of Chicago If time permits this summer.

[Stacey Summer]

I would love to try a transformation service. DO any of the girls here in the UK know of any? There appear to be quite a few in the U.S but I've yet to find any over here.

[Pink Satin Sissy]

I have only had 1 transformation and I LOVED it! Glamour Boutique in Las Vegas. What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.
There is a TS in Ohio who is doing transformations. I'll post her infor after I find it.

[Pink Satin Sissy]

Nicole Morgan (morgin) does transformations in Ohio. [email protected]

[Patty B.]

I was wondering, hadn't heard any comments about TG North in Vermont. I think its in Berlin. Its a good drive from where I live, but maybe one of these days I'll get a chance to book a session. Of course any place I want to go is a minimum one hour drive one way, and most are three and four hours one way.

[Alisa]

Has anyone experienced such a service? The service would appear to be a great match for my interests and fears - if it is for real. Are there other places such as this that I should consider? I feel that actually talking to someone about my CD would help me emotionally and give me more confidence.

Are there other alternatives? How about local meet-up groups? Are they really private or would I feel completely out of place? What do you think?

So many questions.... I can only speak to the transformation service.... I'm an Amanda Richards fan... Great makeup artist with excellent fashion sense and yes, she is also a good listener and very supportive.

[Leslie Foxx]

TG North is just a couple miles from me. My avatar pic is from a makeover and portrait session a few years ago. After a couple makeovers there I gained enough skills to do my own makeup. I still go there for brow waxing every few weeks. TG North also has monthly socials on a Thursday evening which draws guests from hundreds of miles away. If you'd like to give it a try, see if you can arrange to do it on a day that coincides with the social. You'll have a blast and feel ever so girly.

[stevethebird]

I would love to try a transformation service. DO any of the girls here in the UK know of any? There appear to be quite a few in the U.S but I've yet to find any over here.
You're not trying hard enough - the south of England is littered with them. I would personally recommend a visit to Jodie Lynn at The Boudoir in London (www.theboudoironline.com)- my jaw actually dropped when she'd finished my makeup and she's very friendly. It's not cheap, but speaking as someone who spent 25 quid on a makeover in the north of England, you definitely get what you pay for.

[Nancie64]

Interesting that this post surfaced again. I did post on here a month or so ago that I was go to Rori's in Chicago and had a makeover. Some pics are also posted in the photo gallery. Loved it and have printed a pic from each time to compare how they look. I really don't feel any of them where very expensive. Rori's was $75. and the Tgstore by Stephanie was only $50, and if I remember right the GB was $50 plus some pics. If you are thinking about it, don't wait, it is the best, and if you do not like what you see, you can always clean it off before you leave, I have on all 4 times at least left and visited a stop and go or something like that. Each one did it a little different and had some cute ideas. Have phone numbers for all if you would like them. In Vegas it is a lot easier since no one really pays much attention to anybody else.

[vanessahiggins]

Some services are amazing, while others are less than. Hope to find a great one.

[insearchofme]

I agree! I wish there was one here in Indy, I would SOOOO be there! :)

maybe there is, and I just haven't found it yet.... hmmmm.....

Me either. Welcome to the forum, we need all the Hoosier girls we can get!

[Heather Anne]

Ramona, www.exploreyourfeminineside, passed away this past Tuesday from cancer. The only makeover transformation service that I am aware of in the metro Atlanta area is Phoebe Cross, www.phoebesgetaway.com. I had my first makeover February 2004. She is a very sweet and dear person. She does live out away from Atlanta

[PattiMichaels]

In the past, I had the pleasure of my first makeover with Kalina Isato here in Philadelphia. The make-up session and photo shoot was great, but I could have been a little better prepared with my hair and wardrobe. It was still an incredible experience. I also had her do my hair and make-up for the Henri David Halloween Ball here in Philadelphia. Again, a wonderful experience that led to an extremely enjoyable night out on the town.

If I could swing it, I'd love to visit The Fourth Space in London!

[skylance]

Any place like this in Texas?