Written by: Elizabeth Corson, Photo by: Karen Mendolia

I have been following Richard Monteleone for a long time, from Vineland to Cherry Hill and back to Vineland. It has been, beyond a doubt, worth my while.

Everyone has heard of hairdressers having a following but Richard’s is truly unusual. He still has several clients that make the trip from New York City, and it has been 20 years since he did work there.

Over the years, while getting my own hair done, I’ve met people from Ocean City, Wilmington, Philadelphia, Woodbury, Cherry Hill, and a host of other places that involve driving to see Richard. The story is always the same: they were referred by a friend and became a loyal client.

In my case, it was my own late mother who over 22 years ago said “Sweetheart, you have a gorgeous face and beautiful hair, but you need someone who understands how to make it work together for you.” She was right! I took her advice and have been a grateful loyal client of Richard’s ever since.

Richard knows how to give you the style you want, and then add something special. As a stylist, he seems to have instincts that surpass his training and experience, which is quite extensive. After studying at the prestigious Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and The University of The Arts, he received a degree in Art History. You would have to look far and wide to find another stylist with that kind of credential.

This love of art shows in his work and is evidenced in his passion for excellence. Richard’s clients benefit from his vast experience and his high level of education. His list of clients includes many well-known people, and a lot of others referred by those same well-known people.

At Salon Colleen, where Richard currently works, their primary concern is customer service. Owners Colleen Carrigan and Karen Mendolia take great pride in making sure the salon’s clients are welcomed and treated like family from the minute they walk in the door. New or existing clients have a comfortable spot to rest until their appointment. The atmosphere at the salon is warm and inviting, as one would expect to feel at a close friends’ home. They are offered beverages and snacks and are always invited to join the salon conversation.

So, if you have been thinking of trying someone new, I believe Richard is the perfect choice. Also, I know that after you become his loyal client, you’ll hear an often repeated question, “Who does your hair?”