team

Salon and Spa Personalities

Creative Director Derrick Rutherford has assembled an elite team of trained professionals whose talent and flair have become notorious throughout the industry.

The Hair Design and Spa teams are comprised of master stylists Derrick Rutherford, Julio Rodriguez and Rebecca Cruz-Diaz, salon stylists Jillian Ruiter, Krystle Pettitt, Liesel Trivett, Jordan Cowper and Esthetician Francesca Garaffa.

Each member of the team is critical in the overall success of the salon and all members work together to create the best possible environment for our clients.

If you prefer to book an appointment with a specific member of the team, please make your preferences clear at the time of booking.

Derrick Rutherford

Creative Director - Derrick is recognized as one of Canada's leading stylists and is part of a new generation of hair designers responsible for shaping today's hair industry. As part of the Matrix International Design Team, Derrick travels the globe sharing his creativity and precision cutting techniques with stylists eager to expand their knowledge and skill. Derrick's talent coupled with his friendly personality and warm stage presence makes him a popular, sought-after instructior. Derrick has advanced his own career through active participation with the Matrix Education Team and has reached the highest level of achievement, serving now as a member of the distinguished Matrix International Design Team. Derrick puts his belief into action at his own salon where as Artistic Director, he nurtures and coaches his artistic team, helping them achieve the highest level of confidence within their own sense of creativity. Oprah Winfrey - Make Overs for "Locks of Love", Sundance Film Festival - Premier Magazine and New York Fashion Week - In Style Magazine are a few of the examples of how Derrick is living proof that stylists have the ability and opportunity to take their talents beyond the salon and onto the international stage.

Julio Rodriguez

Artistic Director - Julio started his career as a stylist back home in New Jersey. Our resident Jersey Boy took his love of color in Fine Arts, and used it to his advantage as a true hair artist. Julio's career highlights include styling the hair of Hispanic megastars such as Michelle Rodriguez, Justina Machado, Pilar Montenegro, & Maria Conchita Alonzo. He has worked backstage for Imitation of Christ at New York City's famed Fashion Week and Boston's Disco Ball with Betsey Johnson. His educational work for Matrix as a Guest Artist has taken him to every major city across the whole United States and abroad to Europe. He has worked for Matrix in the Czech Republic, Hungary and most recently Italy. He continuously works on photo shoots, and has been published in Modern Salon as well as European magazines. Julio continues his drive for education with his work as a Guest Artist for Logics DNA. "I love the hairdressing industry because it allows me to create beauty on a different canvas daily, either working behind the scenes with models or with our wonderful clients in the salon!"

Krystle Pettitt

Salon Stylist - Get picture perfect from head to toe! Krystle will dazzle you with her true passion for fashion. Her extensive training and on going education with Matrix has earned her diploma as a Matrix Color Master and has recently has been added to the Matrix Education Team. She can also get you RED CARPET ready with her styling and make-up skills. Krystle has also worked on photo shoots and has appeared as the make-up artist for makeovers on thinkfashion.com. When your longing for those long locks Krystle will give you the Victoria Secret look you dream of.

Jillian Ruiter

Salon Stylist - The ingénue! Like the rest of the team Jillian is always honing her craft with ongoing education. Her training with American Crew and Matrix has given her a fresh approach to hair especially with her male clients and young celebrity fashionistas. This past year Jillian spent a week in NYC at the prestigious Toni & Guy Academy.

Rebecca Cruz-Diaz

Master Stylist - When it comes to perfection that is what Rebecca goes for! A truly dedicated stylist with over 15 years in the industry, Rebecca is always ready to create. "I strongly believe that hairdressing is a form of art." Rebecca is also certified with Great Lengths extensions. Dressing hair is also one of Rebeccas' greatest joys. She is ready to deliver her perfect best for that most perfect day.

Leisel Trivett

Salon Stylist - Leisel brings a fresh approach to hair that she is willing to share. Her bright attitude will make you confident to try something new. She has advanced her education with classes at the Matrix Academy in Toronto. She continues on advancing her skills with ongoing education. Her love for color & cutting flourishes on with the Valentini team.

Jordan Cowper

Salon Stylist - With personality plus Jordan will definitely charm. She is so excited about the hair industry. Being part of the Valentini team was one of her goals and we are very excited to have her with us. She continues her education under the leadership of Julio, Derrick, & the rest of the Valentini Team.

Francesca Garaffa

Esthetician - Frances is truly one of a kind. She is a master of her craft with the clientle to prove it. She specializes in all esthetics including eyelash tinting, extensions, brow tinting, and make-up. She is a sought after educator who has been an artist with OPI nail-enhancements for the last 5 years. Her professional demeanor and friendly smile will put you at ease.