Hairdresser Claire Bedogni will be missed by thousands of women whom she made feel and look better during her 50-years as a popular stylist in the community.
It was a shock when Bedogni, who is 74, retired last month after working for the last 23-years at Creative Image Hair Salon, at 2995 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
“I would like to thank Anthony and his team and all the nice people, many who are now my friends,” a smiling Bedogni says. “It has been a good ride.”
She has always worked in the community and previously owned a shop in Mimico called Chiari Hairdressers.
On this day a long-time customer stops by with a Tim Hortons coffee for Bedogni as she styles the hair of another customer, now friend, named Bernice.
“I come here once a week and I don’t know what I will do now,” says a saddened Bernice. “I have been coming here for at least 10-years and we have become friends.”
Bedogni says she will miss her customers and the social atmosphere of the salon.
“But at some point you have to retire,” she says. “I love the job and the people but I want to leave on my own will.”
She plans to spend some time babysitting her two-year-old twin grandchildren, travel and keep busy.
Another customer stops by the shop to chat a little about Bedogni’s retirement and promises to return.
“This has been like a dream for me to be working as a hairstylist,” she reflects. “I feel lucky to be meeting all these interesting people.”
Creative Image owner Anthony Dibiase says Bedogni is still passionate about the craft.
“She has many customers who have been coming to see her for years,” he says. “We will miss her and we wish her a happy retirement.”