With an emphasis on European hair techniques, M Fusion Studio & Academy is quickly rising to the top of the local styling scene. Here’s what all the buzz is about
By Laura Briedis
When Mariia Novichuk emigrated from Ukraine to Northeast Ohio in 2016, she had her 5-year-old son in tow and $150 in her pocket. Today, less than a decade later, she is the proud owner of M Fusion Studio & Academy.
“If you believe in yourself, you can do anything,” Mariia says.
Like many similar stories of other immigrants looking for a better life, hard work and determination were keys to Mariia’s success.
“I always had a passion for hair so I started training at a salon in Ukraine when I was 15 years old,” Mariia says. “Then I moved to Moscow for more opportunities and there I did makeup and hair for TV and movie celebrities.”
Though she was an accomplished hairstylist and makeup artist overseas, she had to start all over again here in Ohio, learning a new language and studying for her cosmetology license.
When she opened her salon in Parma in 2020, she was the only employee. Thanks to year-after-year growth, she moved this summer into a new 2,400-square-foot studio in Broadview Heights.
The first thing you notice when you walk into the salon is the shampoo bowls are front and center, instead of being tucked in the back—and for good reason. At M Fusion Studio, the emphasis is on treating and conditioning hair before and after coloring and cutting.
“Our goal is for clients to have the healthiest and shiniest hair,” Mariia says. “We use the Dr. Sorbie line of organic professional products for best results. We take extra time when coloring hair, using formulas that take longer to process but with fewer chemicals. We also can custom blend formulas by adding in proteins, polymers, oils and other ingredients.”
“I also recommend that after any chemical procedure to add anti-frizz treatments, moisturizing treatments or smoothing hair masks,” adds Mariia, who previously worked in a laboratory that formulated shampoos and conditioners.
Specializing in European-style hair color and techniques, the staff is well versed in AirTouch highlights to create a seamless blend of color that is healthier for your hair. “We take a section of hair with tension on the longest lengths and use a blow dryer to push the shorter hairs and internal layers down and out of the way and while focusing on the roots and longer strands,” Mariia explains.
There are other European influences at M Fusion Studio & Academy as well. The hairstylists use an Italian technique for hair extensions, which is referred to as the capsule method, to create the most natural-looking volume and length.
In addition to four hairstylists specializing in hair color, haircutting, hair extensions and hair loss solutions, there is a manicurist, esthetician, massage therapist and a lash and brow technician to offer a full spectrum of salon and spa services. Plus, Mariia partners with Alyssa Dotson of Hair and Makeup Cleveland, who offers on-location wedding and special event hairstyling and makeup.
M Fusion Academy
Now, with 20 years of experience behind the chair and five years experience training others, Mariia is ready to recruit new talent for her team. Together, Mariia and Alyssa teach hair coloring, haircutting and hair extension techniques, as well as makeup application, at the M Fusion Academy, which is located within the Broadview Heights studio.
“We also will be inviting hairstylists and makeup artists from New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and around the country as guest speakers at our classes,” Mariia says. “We specialize in European-style haircuts, color and techniques so we want others to learn about our specialties.”
M Fusion Studio & Academy is located at 403 E. Royalton Road in Broadview Heights. For more information call 440-623-4997. Follow M Fusion onInstagram.