Natalie and Nate Grider are officially the new owners of Appearances Salon & Retreat in Springfield after a two-year transition of ownership period from Bernie Koch Jr.
Appearances Salon and Retreat is a locally owned and operated business with a 90-year history in Springfield. Bernie Koch Sr. opened a barbershop in 1932. His son, Bernie Koch Jr., later established and operated Appearances Salon and Retreat for nearly four decades. For the past 20 years, the business has been located at 3240 Pleasant Run on Springfield’s west side.
Koch met Natalie Grider 17 years ago when she was in cosmetology school, and she started working at Appearances following graduation.
“I had the pleasure of watching Natalie excel in her career while becoming a wonderful wife, loving mother, professional and leader,” said Koch. “She brings a positive influence and creative spark to our business… I couldn’t be happier to turn over my family’s barber and beauty legacy to her and Nate. They have already done a lot of great updates to the salon the last couple of years. I know Appearances is in excellent hands going forward with them and their very talented and dedicated staff.”
Bernie,
I am so grateful for the care you and your staff have taken with my hair for many years. In my opinion, there’s no hair cutter in the State better than you at fitting the haircut to the head — the shape of the skull, the planes of the face, the texture of the hair. When I wanted a style that wouldn’t work for me, you explained about the “bump” on the back of the head. I had to re-schedule an appointment now and then because you were in NYC studying haircutting, always learning and coming back home to teach those who worked for/with you. As you were reducing your hours in the shop, I asked who cut YOUR hair, which was always impeccable and flattering — and you said “Vickie” — my colorist, and I am happy to now to have her cut my hair, also. Thanks for all the years, and best wishes for a satisfying retirement.