After the customer leaves, it is closing time and Riley, owner of Alexander’s Hair Design at the Mariemont Inn, replaces the void in the hairdresser’s chair left by the departing patron.

“The lady you just saw me with working on her hair ... she was my first standing client in 1969 when I began cutting hair,” Riley said. “There are about 22 clients who have been with me since the beginning.”

Riley didn’t start out in Mariemont, though; her career started in the late 60s with Charles Alexander, her teacher in hair design.

She worked at the Village Beauty Shop for 12 years when it was located in the Old Towne Center. After the owner of the shop retired, Riley moved her career to Red Bank Road.

When the spot at the present 6880 Wooster Pike location Riley decided it was the appropriate time to open her own shop.

“I worked here alone for almost four years; then Alexander’s Hair Design closed and we decided to combine,” she said.

“I was located at the Old Towne Center for 12 years and it was nice, but this present location is more exciting. There are the restaurants, more activity and the customers are very colorful,” Riley said.

She enjoys hair design because she enjoys working with people.

“Some of the people have been here so long they have become like family,” she said.

Riley is also addicted to fast cars. She is a member of the Ft. Thomas Corvette Club and owns a 1988 Corvette.

“I also love the Cincinnati Reds. I go to opening day every year,” she said.

To set an appointment with Riley, Charles or Alex, call 561-2022 or 561-1100.