La Moda, a beloved hair salon in Sudbury, marked a significant milestone in 2023 as it celebrated its 50th anniversary. Under the ownership of Lianne Depatie since 2005, the salon has become a cherished institution, tracing its roots back to its inception in 1973.
Sylvia Marasco, daughter of the salon’s late founder Cesare Marasco, shared nostalgic memories of her childhood, often dreaming of La Moda’s distinctive ’70s decor, particularly the baby blue phase that remains etched in her dreams. La Moda has been more than just a salon; it has been a significant part of Sylvia’s life and childhood.
Originally opened by Mario Greco in 1973, La Moda saw Cesare Marasco join as a partner. By the mid-1980s, Marasco became the sole owner, leaving an indelible mark on the salon’s legacy. In 2005, Lianne Depatie, a stylist at the salon since 2000, took the reins from Marasco, ensuring continuity and preserving the salon’s welcoming ethos.
Depatie recalls Marasco’s decision to sell the salon and the trust he placed in her to carry on the La Moda name. “Because I know you’re going to carry the name like I would and that you welcome everybody in the way I have,” he had told her. Indeed, Depatie has honored this trust, maintaining the original sign outside and continuing to provide quality hair care services for the entire family.
Despite facing challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic that led to a nine-month closure, La Moda has persevered. Depatie expresses gratitude to the community for their support during these tough times, acknowledging the impact of loyal customers in ensuring the salon’s post-pandemic survival.
Depatie, who describes her late mentor Marasco as funny and welcoming, reflects on the joy of owning La Moda, emphasizing the positive impact a good haircut can have on people’s well-being. She notes the challenges faced during the pandemic, the closure of other salons in the area, and the resilience of her team, who returned after the forced closure.
Sylvia Marasco echoes sentiments of pride and joy, envisioning her father’s delight at La Moda’s continued operation and expressing gratitude to Depatie for her dedication. La Moda stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of community-centric businesses and the power of a welcoming atmosphere that transcends generations.
