Hair stylists find silver lining after fire destroys business
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Hair stylists Amy Guerra, seated, Bonnie Anthon, Lois Litz and Mari Schweitzer have moved to Tresses Hair Studio and Day Spa at 714 Maple Road after a fire destroyed Salon John Paul where they had been employed. Photo by Joe Eberle Purchase color photos at www.BeeNews.com

Last month fire destroyed Chang's Garden Restaurant on Maple Road, taking Salon John Paul with it.

Four women, who had been working as stylists at the salon, found themselves without a place to work. But they say what happened next, reminded them that Buffalo is the city of good neighbors.

"Without hesitation (Tresses) opened their salon to us," the four women wrote in a statement.

Mari Schweitzer said Tresses Hair Studio and Day Spa has been a blessing, reaching out to them, offering them a place to "set up shop." Four of the eight accepted and started working at Tresses.

Also joining Schweitzer are Lois Litz, Amy Guerra and Bonnie Anthon. They said their clients' contact information was burned in the fire and hope anyone looking for them can reconnect.

Tresses Hair Studio is located at 714 Maple Road, in the Maple-Forest Plaza, less than half a mile from where Salon John Paul was located. Schweitzer said Salon John Paul will not be reopening.

To contact the salon, call 636-5412.

The fire was devastating, with thousands of dollars of equipment being destroyed. Schweitzer said the stylists at Tresses, especially the owner, have made room for them, helping them get back on their feet.

"Several of us wish to thank our friends in the industry who have helped, by supplying us with equipment, scissors, razors, roller-carts and much more," they also wrote.

Schweitzer described Tresses' actions as a "blessing beyond relief."

Schweitzer, Litz, Guerra and Anthon all have more than 30 years experience in the industry. Guerra is also a nail technician.

"We would like to extend our warmest regards to the former owner of Salon John Paul, John Paul Lauricella, best wishes and success in his new endeavors," they stated.