Rizza Marie Benton 02/20/1989-11/19/2022
Sydney Ryan Eckhoff 04/25/1991-11/24/2022
Trying to write a tribute to one without the other is impossible. They were the embodiment of what everyone thinks love is supposed to look like. The way they loved each other, their children, and the world around them was a daily testament to who they were at their core. One of the most amazing tributes Rizza’s memory leaves behind is the way they always encouraged everyone around them to be their authentic selves, and their uncanny ability to see those parts of you that you tried to keep hidden out of fear. As someone who spent many hours in Rizza’s chair, I can personally attest to how just at home and safe both Rizza and Syd made you feel when you were in their company. From the decor, to the conversations had, right down to the music played, it was quite simply comfortable to be in their presence. You never felt the need to be anyone but who you are, to be ok if you weren’t, or to be happy if you were down. However, even if you entered their presence with a frown and that was ok, odds are you would be leaving with a smile!
In reading through the vast number of tributes that were left by friends and family on their social media pages, “Safe”, “Loved”, and “Accepted” were the most common words used to describe what Rizza and Syd brought to the lives of others, and what will be so sorely missed. Their passing has left a gaping hole in our hearts, our community, and Wild Ferns.
-Kendra Larsen, Wild Ferns Wellness Center staff member and longtime client of Rizza’s
Roots Hair Lounge Virtual Tour
Rizza had created a beautiful new space for Roots here at Wild Ferns as part of our expansion, a space that was only utilized for a few weeks before Rizza passed away. In honor of them, we wanted to provide you with a small virtual tour of a space that was so full of love, warmth and acceptance. In the brief time that the new space was open, there were multiple occasions where clients and friends would just hang out in the space for hours because it was so inviting! Rizza’s personality and light shone through in what they created.
While no one could ever replace Rizza and the amazing atmosphere they created, we WILL offer cosmetology services again when the time is right. We need some time to heal and decide the best way forward that will honor Rizza’s memory while providing the services that are so needed in our community.
Update: We have decided to keep the salon just as Rizza & Syd created it. We have salon management and cosmetologists ready to open. We are applying to change the zoning so we can reopen, as apparently our building does not allow salon services due to the current zoning. We will keep you posted!
Rizza and Syd’s profiles have been moved from the Meet the Team page to here. I just can’t bring myself to delete them completely. -Parker (WFW Co-founder)
Photography
Sydney Eckhoff
(they/them/theirs)
Photographer
I am a queer and nonbinary photographer who’s main goal is to make you look good and feel even better. Everything I do is with a focus on inclusion and making the best image depending on what your photographic goal is, whether that is an event, wedding, business headshots, product headshots, creative portraits and more. I know how difficult it can be to get in front of a camera and trust that the person on the other end can see something in you. I often hear “I don’t photograph well.” And “I don’t usually like pictures that other people take of me” And those same people say “I look good!” or “These are a gift!” when they see the photos finished and that is always the goal when you step in my studio.
Roots Hair Lounge
Rizza Benton
(they/them/theirs)
Cosmetologist
Roots Hair Lounge is owned and operated by multi-talented Rizza Benton. Rizza works with all different hair types and is a true artist when it comes to hair cutting, styling, dyeing, lash extensions and more! Rizza has recently transitioned from Rubies Paradise Salon which they cite as formative for their vision with Roots Hair Lounge.
Photography Services by Sydney Eckhoff (They/Them)
