Exceptional skill.
Our experienced team shares a passion and dedication to hair. We pride ourselves on honesty in creating your look, without any illusions. We’re here to listen to you, guide you, and help you feel confident and rejuvenated.
All of our stylists are licensed professionals with a minimum of two years industry experience, committed to advancing their knowledge through education in order to stay informed and inspired.
You can rely on our team to deliver outstanding results, every time.
Want to join our team? Email your resume to info@vonriesenhairco.ca or deliver in person!
Paul Friesen (He/Him)
Owner & Master Stylist
Paul grew up in southeast Winnipeg in a creative family. His interest in styling began at a young age and with over 30 years in the beauty industry, he opened Von Riesen Hair Co. with his wife, Valerie. Paul grew his skill for three decades at the distinguished Edward Carriere Salon but long dreamed of creating an intimate, boutique environment.
Paul studied with the Goldwell Academy for his entire career and has implemented their philosophy, professionalism, and innovative technologies into Von Riesen Hair Co. Vidal Sassoon and Bumble & Bumble are also a significant part of his educational experience.
Paul is knowledgeable, passionate, calm, and a keen listener. His modern, clean haircuts are inspired by his love of furniture construction (you can see many of his creations in the salon). He has a long competition career, including stunning photo entries for Goldwell Color Zoom in the past few years.
When he’s is not styling, Paul can be found building or fixing something around the house or in his workshop. Valerie and their kids, Dominic and Vanessa, are the centre of his life.
Paul has lifelong friendships with much of his existing clientele but he’s eager to meet new ones and share his passion for making others feel and look great.
Valerie Desjardins (She/Her)
Owner & Master Stylist
Valerie is a Francophone from northern New Brunswick. Shortly after meeting Paul in 2013 at Goldwell’s International Hair Show in Los Angeles, she relocated to Winnipeg where she opened The Corner Hair Studio and is raising her adorable kids, Dominic and Vanessa with Paul.
Valerie discovered her passion for art, music, and hair at a young age. After a couple years of Fine Arts education, she enrolled in beauty school at L’Institut Jon rayMond. Her career grew very quickly and by the age of 22, she became the owner of the Angel Hair Studio in New Brunswick.
Valerie has been a Goldwell Technical Adviser and a KMS Style Council member for over 23 years. She shares her Goldwell expertise by training students and stylists at high schools, hair styling academies, and salons. These roles allow her to grow her personal education portfolio while sharing her passion and knowledge with others.
Valerie is a Certified Master Colorist and Stylist, eager to share her skills. She’ll create volume from your fine hair and bring out the glamour in your unruly curls. From gorgeous reds, to shiny brunettes or luxurious blondes… she’ll be delighted to spend time with you. Be prepared to talk recipes because when Valerie’s not in the boutique, she’s cooking!
Anastasia Hodnett (She/Her) Level 2 Apprentice
Anastasia was born and raised in Winnipeg, happy to now call St. Vital her home. Ana has always been very creative. Her family, especially her older sister, have always encouraged and inspired her artistic talents. After years of experimenting with her own hair and that of friends, Ana decided hairstyling was the perfect career, allowing her to blend her interest in hairstyling with her creativity.
While attending the hairstyling program at the Arts and Technology Centre, Ana joined the Von Riesen Hair Co. team. She quickly grew to love the trade and is always eager to learn and improve. Her apprenticeship allowed her to gain additional knowledge and experience outside of school.
Ana graduated from the hairstyling program in June 2022. She’s now working full-time with Von Riesen Hair Co. and continues to learn and practice while she completes her apprenticeship.
Ana is very passionate about her work and always strives to do her absolute best on every guest. She is always looking for more creative colour clients, a special interest and talent of hers.