Queen City Pretty: Mara Campolungo

This week's Queen City Pretty is Mara Campolungo, the co-founder of The Sandbox. The Sandbox is a non-profit that walks with families whose children are affected by cancer or life-altering illnesses.

Mara took time out of her busy schedule to share with me her inspiration, her success and even a few beauty tips along the way.

What inspired your interest in creating the Sandbox? I have always had a passion for serving the community. In fact, my personal motto is, “positive thoughts breed positive actions”. The Sandbox provides me with an opportunity to spread hope, love and service to those who need it most in our community. If we can encourage people to continue believing despite challenging conditions, then I know we’ve done our part to breed positive actions.  

What moment can you say was that defining moment that you had succeeded in something you have worked hard for? Great question, I would say one of the defining moments occurred last year when our organization hosted “An Evening of Stars” for 100 patients of Levine Children’s Hospital. It was a magical experience from start to finish. Just the smiles on the children’s faces were indescribable; that day, we were able to provide these children with lifelong memories and it’s an accomplishment that’s priceless to us at The Sandbox.I invite you to share the experience through our video: www.YouTube.com/GotSandbox.

 What beauty regimen do you go through on a daily basis? I wish I had some top-secret beauty regimen to share with you, but I am a keep-it-simple kind of person. My hair is not a laborious task, so I’m usually spending most of my time applying makeup, which usually consists of: mascara, eye-liner and lipstick.  

What is your beauty product must have? Oh, this is easy, our Believe wristbands. They are stylish, hip and a total must-have for any season! 

If I were to peek in your makeup bag, what would I find? My signature Believe bands.  

What spa/salon service can you not live without and where do you go to get this service done? I am a regular at Virtue Salon and Spa; usually I am getting my hair thinned and trimmed and my favorite manicure and pedicure. When you spend as much time in The Sandbox as I do, it’s essential that you maintain your hands and feet. 

Who is your beauty icon? I cannot say that I have just one beauty icon. Instead, I would say that every one of the children I’ve met through The Sandbox personify beauty icons in my Sandbox. 

What is your definition of Beauty? I believe true beauty is housed in the heart and can only be revealed through love. 

Any last words? I feel blessed and humbled to be surrounded by a community of wonderful volunteers and teammates in The Sandbox. Together, we are able to lock arms and walk with families at one of the most difficult times in their lives.