Meet Merria
To put it simply, Merria Dearman loves helping people.
For the past two decades, Dearman has changed the lives of men and women from all walks of life. Some have been trying to reclaim their identity while battling medical hair loss, while others are seeking a brand new look or simply an enhancement of their existing one. Her profound contribution to the world reminds us just how much hair is part of one’s identity.
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Being eternally curious and eager to learn, she made the decision to further her education at Vancouver Film School, expanding her skills to makeup and hair for film and stage. It was while studying character design, that Dearman fell in love with the art of wig making.
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Dearman began her career as a hairstylist in Santa Rose, CA where, within two years, she was recognized and awarded nationally.
The Calling
After earning her degree, she returned home to find her beloved Aunt had been diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer.
When her aunt lost her hair during treatment, Dearman used her skills to build a hyper-realistic wig that allowed her aunt to feel beautiful and confident during the most difficult time of her life.
It was while helping her aunt that Dearman realized her true calling.
First NYC Salon
In 2013, Dearman moved to New York City and opened her own wig salon on the Upper East Side.
After only a year, Dearman was so busy she needed assistance in fabricating her designs to keep up with demand.
Turning to different parts of the world, Dearman was exposed to the global practices of the hair trade and mass market wig manufacturing.
Ethical Sourcing
Dearman decided it would be her mission to source only from facilities with fair market practices - those that pay women fair market prices directly for their hair, as well those whose workers are paid a fair wage and are not forced to work with harsh chemicals.
She herself traveled to the countries of origin to see how exactly the hair is harvested and processed without harmful chemicals and how a wig should be built from start to finish.
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Today, Dearman continues to ethically source hair and expand her reach while educating and elevating the wig industry.
She sources directly in China and Indonesia, Eastern Europe, Vietnam and even right here in the United States.
“Hair is a naturally occurring commodity. It’s organic, decomposes and continues to be of great value.
If we can be humane in the sourcing and fully responsible for processing without hurting our environment or the people in it, we win.
We are helping a billion-dollar industry on a path to regulation, while ensuring the public is informed, protected and empowered when purchasing.”
The Stars, and Beyond
Dearman was highlighted in the 2017 New York Times article entitled “Last of New York’s Master Wigmakers” introducing her to an even larger audience.
She continues to help her clients suffering from hair loss, while also working with the celebrity film and editorial world.
She has worked with Tony Award winning designers and celebrity stylist, with hair gracing the heads of Gisele Bundchen, Irina Shayk, Naomi Campbell, Sarah Jessica Parker, Fergie, Madonna, Karlie Kloss, and many more.
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Dearman’s goal has always been to help anyone that needs something beautiful and well made to be informed, protected and empowered when purchasing an ethically and responsibly made wig.
She is meeting and surpassing that goal everyday - one strand at a time.
Meet Eryk
Talent & Experience
Eryk Brian, a highly skilled salon colorist and razor cutting specialist, brings over 30 years of expertise to the world of hairstyling.
His career has been shaped by invaluable experiences, working alongside prominent mentors such as Guido Palau, James Pecis, Orlando Pita, Odile Gilbert, Shay Ashual, Jawara, Mustafa Yanaz, Jimmy Paul, and Laurent Phillipon, who have influenced his approach.
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Eryk's talents extend to the fashion industry, where he has collaborated with renowned brands like Dolce and Gabbana, Valentino, Prada, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, Off-White, and Martine Serre. These collaborations have enriched his creativity and informed his approach to salon services.
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After two decades in the salon and multiple seasons in fashion, Eryk embarked on a transformative journey.
He was trained by Merria Dearman in the intricate art of wig making, adding a unique dimension to his skills.
His extensive salon and fashion references make him one of the few wig makers who is also a seasoned hairdresser, bringing an eye for detail to create the most natural-looking hair pieces available.
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What sets Eryk Brian apart is his profound connection to fashion and the individuals who sit in his chair. His work goes beyond cutting and coloring hair; it's a creative journey influenced by the latest fashion trends and the personality of the person in his chair.
Eryk's salon is a place of transformation, where he seamlessly blends his passion for fashion with his clients' desires to create unique and authentic expressions of themselves.
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His ability to adapt to the ever-evolving world of style ensures that each client leaves with a look that's not only fashionable but a true reflection of their identity.
Eryk's dedication to his craft, influences from fashion brands and mentors, and his journey into the art of wig making make him a sought-after expert in salon color, razor cutting, and wig creation.
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Eryk's work extends to collaborations with iconic clients like Naomi Campbell, Christina Aguilera, and Fergie, creating bespoke wig designs that are a testament to his artistry. He has also contributed to the world of entertainment by working on a Disney film.
