A touch of the international

The bold, beautiful hair and accent of Brian Roche is sure to stand out in Saratoga, Wyoming. The renowned hair stylist is working through Copper Creek Hair Company is owned by Madeline Bonitatibus and located at 116 West Bridge Street.

Along with his wife Marina, Brian found the Valley all the way from western Ireland. Brian Roche has 32 years experience in many aspects of hair. Specializing in hair color, advanced cutting and restyling, Brian does men's and children's hair as well, especially children of regular clients.

Brian began his journey with hair when he was just 16 years old.

"I left school around 14. My parents understood it wasn't working for me. After working odd jobs for around a year, my parents came to me and said it was time to pick a trade. Thankfully so, as having a trade can be a very valuable option for youth that's not often explored." Brian said. He further explained he'd always had a wicked imagination and creative streak.

Beginning at a hair college in Limerick, Ireland, hair has taken Brian all over the world.

"It was full time, five days a week for a full year before the final exam, which covered all aspects of hair styling".

From there he traveled to New York City, Usa.

"My first job was on Lexington Avenue in Manhattan at 17 years old. It was a real trip, an absolutely huge salon, and so many other stylists." Not only working with hair, Brian has also practiced Reflexology. Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is a type of massage which involves applying pressure to the ear, hands, and feet.

"Reflexology is generally relaxing and may help alleviate stress" according to the Mayo Clinic.

From Sydney, Australia all the way to New Mexico, Brian's unique skill set has truly taken him all over the globe.

"Taos, New Mexico holds a very special place in my heart, the whole west. I fell in love with the landscape, energy, people, just everything. It was one of the happiest times in my life and I've always dreamed of sharing it with my wife, Marina."

While debating between setting up shop in Colorado or New Mexico, the couple took a road trip through Colorado to California, seeing sights and visiting old friends. One of those friends was Linda Cameron in New Mexico. Come to find out Linda's daughter, Jessica, also became a hair stylist and was based in Denver.

"Linda and Jessica are so kind and the most helpful people,'' Brian explained, as the decision to settle in Colorado was made with the assistance of Jessica Cameron.

The decision didn't last long as it was March 2020 and COVID-19 changed many plans. Thinking a short six weeks was all it would take to be back to normal, the couple decided to go to a more rural setting. Jessica Cameron and fiance George Haigh invited the Roche couple to stay in Saratoga where Haigh was based.

"It was so generous of Jessica, and especially George, as he hardly knew us. I'm so thankful to them for the place to stay, side work and helpful start," said Brian.

"Wyoming, felt more inviting and charming. We fell in love quickly."

Floating the river, abundant hiking and large animals like moose made the Valley irresistible to the Roche couple.

"We love the outdoors and try to make it out every weekend."

Thus the decision was made to stick around in the Saratoga area. "The people are so friendly we have had a wonderful time here making new friends."

Working through Copper Creek Hair Company, Brian is able to offer a top quality concept salon experience unlike a chain or franchise. Offering an appointment only setting, Brian takes his time with each individual client to get the highest degree of satisfaction.

"Good communication and a good relationship with your client is what makes great hair," said Brian. "There's a lot of aspects to getting the style, look, color, tone all right." According to Brian, the smaller salon setting "offers creative freedom and a relaxing atmosphere for all."

The ultimate goal is to make your clients comfortable, enjoy their time spent and leave with an overall great experience.