Today we’d like to introduce you to Jon Hedgecorth.
Hi Jon, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I spent 14 yrs. in the coffee industry being a barista, making large batches of cold brew, learning to roast, etc. one day when I was putting stickers on bottles, I decided I didn’t want to work for anyone else anymore.
I had to figure out then, what I was gonna do. I am a social guy and love being around others; talking and engaging in people’s lives.
A friend suggested I check out barbering, so I did. I was blown away about the history, the art, the science of it all. the barbershop has always been a hub of community… I was hooked and there just so happened to be a barber school in my hometown.
Fast forward about 10 months, I was about ready to graduate and was approached by a woman selling a barbershop down the street from me. I grew up in St. Charles County and so a shop where I have lived and am currently living was a dream come true.
I wasn’t looking for a shop to buy; in fact, I was hoping to get my feet wet somewhere and maybe consider it later…maybe., but as it happened a business partner & I bought a shop about 3.5 years ago and RAD was born.
Fast forward 2years and 2 moves later and we set up shop in the heart of Frenchtown St. Charles; a growing area that is in the midst of revitalization with the help from other small businesses.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Nope. I have never owned a small business, so there’s that…
Finding the balance between this shop and off time.
Putting an emphasis on chemistry and trying to foster a healthy drama-free environment for barbers and customers alike.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
In a time where barbershops had almost disappeared, we join a resurgence of the craft! we are a full-service, traditional barbershop specializing in shortcuts on all ages & all genders.
When people walk in, we want them to know they are welcome. everything we do is premised on community. we are active and inclusive in the LGBTQ community with pride St. Charles. a week ago, we co-hosted a block party, cleverly disguised as double grand opening with a new tattoo shop in our area, which included local brewers, coffee roaster, meade brewer, artists, musicians and all if our neighbors. having a Frenchtown get down!
I have always loved lifestyle brands. our 2 pomade companies, suavecito, and American pomade company are full of hot rods, Chicano culture, low riders, pin-ups, and old school greasers.
We’re called RAD because we want people to experience when they come in… grab a drink, hangout, join in ongoing conversations listen to some shop tunes, and get a haircut or shave.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The shop is about community and the people make it all worth it; from my barbers to a first-time walk in.
Pricing:
- haircuts-$25
- haircut & facial trim-$40
- straight razor, hot towel shave-$35
Contact Info:
- Email: radbarbershopstc@gmail.com
- Website: radbarbershop.com
- Instagram: rad_barber_shop
- Facebook: @radbarbershopstc
