Today we’d like to introduce you to Miguel Cruz
Hi Miguel, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My passion for barbering began at 12 years old when I picked up a pair of clippers my mom used to cut my siblings and myself back in the day. I started experimenting and practicing on my younger siblings and later on as my skills improved through countless bad haircuts I began cutting friends from high school in my mom’s garage. Through word of mouth my clientele expanded tremendously and soon cutting hair was taking up most of my free time. After graduating high school I was a part time college student with a full time job, all while still maintaining a high demand of clientele with little to no free time. I realized this wasn’t sustainable long term and would eventually have to go all in on one. I quit college and started barber school. I obtained my barbers license so I could cut in a proper shop and quit my full time job shortly after. My intention was to maximize my potential in the trade/industry and learn as much as I could along the way. I saved everything that I could for 4 years working in other’s shops. In 2018 I took a leap and through countless setbacks opened Grayscale Barbershop in Katy Tx with the intention of bringing something different to the community I grew up in.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely been far from a smooth road, what initially felt like a string of bad luck on the journey to opening the barbershop was nothing compared to what lied after opening. From hiring, firing, managing, the responsibility of other peoples livelihoods in your hands as a leader, essentially figuring out how to run a successful business with no business background or education . The obstacle though came during the pandemic in 2020. As barbers, our industry was deemed non essential and therefore had to shut down operations for nearly three months. with no income coming in, rent/bills were still due and what little bit of savings I had left were quickly liquidated. it was definitely a dark time for us all and I had made peace with the fact that loosing the shop I worked so hard for was a real possibility. luckily I was able to float some expenses on credit cards and by the third month on lockdown, the state of Texas let us resume operations with restrictions in place. Some of the barbers came back, others were too afraid to get sick with covid and never came back, same thing with clients. After that, the way of doing business changed in so many ways and we had to adapt quickly.
We’ve been impressed with Grayscale Barbershop, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Grayscale barbershop is a premium barbershop dedicated to providing the highest quality services in a laid back and welcoming atmosphere. We offer mens grooming services such as haircuts, beard trims, hot towel shaves and products. Our staff is trained and handpicked to provide the best grooming and service experience possible. What we’re most proud of as a brand is actually what sets us apart from others and that is our shop culture. Our clients take notice and participate in the camaraderie that we’ve built all while putting integrity, respect and customer service at the forefront of our operations.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Definitely first and foremost God, don’t understimate the power of faith and prayer.. My fiancé and family were a huge support system throughout the entire process which I think is very important to have if you’re considering the entrepreneurial route. Last but not least all of my clients who I now consider friends, they have all been a collective source of support and inspiration, without them there is no Grayscale Barbershop.
Pricing:
- Haircut $40
- Haircut & Beard $60
- 12 & under $35
- Hot Towel Shave $40
- Bear Trim $25
Contact Info:
- Website: https://grayscalebarbershop.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grayscalebarbershop/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrayscaleBarbershopHouston/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/grayscale-barbershop-katy
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@grayscalebarbershop?_t=8obEqylGz9C&_r=1
Image Credits
Photography by Christopher Ayala
