Fresh Kuts - Black History Month Q&A
Fresh Kuts
207 N Schuyler, Kankakee
(815) 573-5025 | freshkutsbarbershop2024@gmail.com
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Q1: Tell us about yourself and your business. What do you make, offer, or do?
We are a proud Black-owned, community-centered barbershop built on culture, consistency, and care. Our shop is more than a place to get a haircut — it’s a space where confidence is built, conversations are shared, and community is strengthened.
We specialize in precision cuts for all textures, including fades, tapers, scissor cuts, beard grooming, line-ups, hot towel shaves, and youth cuts. Whether it’s a clean professional look, a sharp event-ready style, or a fresh weekly maintenance cut, we focus on detail, quality, and making every client feel their absolute best when they walk out the door.
Beyond grooming, we provide a welcoming environment rooted in respect, mentorship, and empowerment. As a small, Black-owned business, we are intentional about pouring back into our neighborhood and creating a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and confident.
Serving the community one Fresh Kut at a time.
Q2: How did your business get started? Was there an a-ha moment or turning point that set everything in motion?
The "K" in "Fresh Kuts" is a representation for Kankakee - where I was born and raised. My story starts in the country "Otto" roads on the outskirts of town. Money was tight growing up so regular barber shop visits weren’t always an option. As a teenager, instead of going without, I picked up a pair of clippers and decided to teach myself.
I started practicing on my own hair, learning through trial and error, patience, and a lot of determination. Before long, my friends began asking me for cuts too. What started in bedrooms and on front porches turned into steady weekend lineups.
The more I practiced, the better I got — and what began out of necessity quickly became a real passion and purpose. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit.
Even at a young age, I knew I wanted to build something of my own and create opportunities not just for myself, but for others. That mindset pushed me to take the next step and enroll in barber school to sharpen my craft, earn my license, and truly master the art.
Q3: What has been one of your biggest challenges as a business owner, and how did you work through it?
Balancing fatherhood, long full-time work hours, and trying to grow as a barber wasn’t easy. There were times when getting licensed had to be delayed because time and finances were stretched thin. Finding the right location for a shop also took longer than expected. I wasn’t just looking for any space — I wanted a solid foundation, somewhere that aligned with my vision and would truly serve the community.
Even when progress felt stalled, I never stopped cutting.
I practiced on my sons a lot and even taught them how to cut! I kept building my skills, maintaining relationships with clients, and preparing for the right moment. Those years taught me patience, discipline, and how to build something the right way — not rushed, but rooted.
Today, my barbershop represents more than entrepreneurship. It represents sacrifice, persistence, and commitment to both my family and my community. Every chair in my shop is a reminder that sometimes the journey takes time, but when you stay consistent, the vision will come together.
Q6: What advice would you give to the next generation of Black makers, creators, or business owners who feel unsure about taking that first step?
Most of us don’t start with perfect conditions, unlimited resources, or a clear roadmap. I know I didn’t.
But what matters is being willing to start where you are, with what you have. Keep your support system close. Surround yourself with people who genuinely believe in your vision, but who will also keep you grounded and accountable. You need encouragement, but you also need people who will challenge you.
I want to thank my wife and kids for being this support system for me from the very beginning.
Understand that the journey may not move as fast as you’d like. Life responsibilities, finances, and unexpected setbacks can slow things down — but slow doesn’t mean stopped. Persevere, fight back, and WIN. Nothing worth having in life comes easy.
Most importantly, pray for guidance and clarity. Ask for wisdom in your decisions and patience in the process. Faith will keep you steady when things feel uncertain.
Your ideas are valid. Your talent is needed. And your community benefits when you choose to step out on faith.
