Fifty years ago, two young Italian immigrants had a dream. Alfonso Vairo and Sebastiano LaVergetta left Italy, moving into Pelham Bay to pursue their dreams of opening a full service beauty salon. And in December of 1962, their dream came true.
“As young partners we combined our names- Al from Alfonso and iano from Sebastiano – brains and talent – to create Aliano’s Beauty Salon on Westchester Avenue,” Vairo said. “It was an instant success as it continues to be 50 years later.”
To celebrate the salon’s 50th anniversary, Vairo said the staff threw a small get together at the salon with family friends and a few loyal customers.
Vairo became the salon’s sole owner in 1983 after his partner opened another salon in New Jersey. He kept the name of the salon and continued the business.
Now after a half century run, Vairo has decided to semi-retire and pass ownership of the business to his friend and long time employee Lucia Malmo and her daughter Eliana Malmo.
“Both women are highly qualified in their field,” he said. “We do waxing, pedicures, facials, make-up and massages, all performed in private rooms on the lower level of the salon.”
Staff at Aliano’s said they wish Vairo a healthy retirement and give thanks to him for making their years of employment at the salon unforgettable.
Vairo said he also wanted to thank his staff for all of the years and hard work they have put in at Aliano’s.
“I want to thank Dorina, who has been there from Day One; Tina, a former employee and friend; Rafaella; Donna and last, but not least, Maryann, who has performed many services over the years,” Vairo said. “I also want to thank the recent crew Cheddy, Marelli, Clara and Sylvia. We are all wishing Lucia and Eliana much luck and continuing success.”
Kirsten Sanchez can be reach via e-mail at ksanchez@cnglocal.com or by phone at (718) 742-3394
