Jessica Swenson-Kapki, with The Artistic in Auburn, was one of eight stylists selected from 60 applicants to be part of the Intercoiffure Fall Atelier creative team.

Kapki traveled to New York recently with salon owner Delores Bothello and staff members Nicole Montero, Sarah Williams and Stacy Hampshire.

“To be able to represent the industry on stage was a real honor,” Bothello said about Kapki. “She did awesome in the competition. They provided the model and she had to reproduce the haircut (submitted for the event). People told her what a great job she did.”

In preparation for the stage appearance, Kapki worked closely with Hampshire, The Artistic’s director of education.

“Stacy is very fashion-forward thinking,” Bothello said. “She brings a lot of expertise and direction to the staff.”

The annual atelier — or workshop — attracted approximately 500 attendees from the United States, Canada and even Europe, Bothello said.

A particular thrill for Kapki was getting the opportunity meet hair guru Oribe, stylist to the stars who has his own hair care line.

Salon staff also participated in a karaoke contest, taking fifth place for a rendition of the Beach Boys’ “California Girls,” Bothello said.