First Month is Just The Tip of the Iceberg for New Barbershop
two former ‘Roy’s girls’ launch their own business
Sam Johnson, photos by Andrea Paulseth |
What makes a good barber? Experience is a good start. Nobody wants a haircut from someone who’s still figuring it out. Friendliness doesn’t hurt either: Haircuts are duller than an old pair of scissors without conversation to interrupt the droning clippers. Just The Tip, a new barbershop in Eau Claire, prides itself on both.
Since the shop’s opening on April 19, owners Jamie Hofstetter and Lydia Ulwelling have been serving customers haircuts and getting the word out via Facebook and flyers in local businesses. Contrary to the name, a haircut costs $19, with military and college discounts available, but tips are welcome.
The pair have worked together on and off for nearly 15 years in Eau Claire – starting at Chippewa Valley Technical College, moving on to Roy’s Barber Shop on Water Street, and now achieving a long-time goal.
“Ever since our first job working together, we wanted our own shop,” Hofstetter said. “We don’t have to answer to anybody else, and we set it up how we want to.”
The former “Roy’s girls” encapsulated the techniques and ambiance of an old-school barbershop, with their own spin. Just The Tip does beards, straight-edge razoring, and haircuts like plenty of other barbershops, but the two women cracking jokes and having a good time is what separates them from the pack.
“We like to joke around,” Ulwelling said. “That sets us apart.”
Just The Tip has what some might consider an unusual name. Hofstetter said it fits her personality and the atmosphere she wants to build around her shop. Once she decided on the name, she knew it was perfect for the kind of barbershop she wanted to own.
The two said they lack a filter (unless kids are around) and try to provide a fun environment for themselves and their customers.
After less than a month open, Hofstetter and Ulwelling said they’re excited to see new faces coming into the shop and excited to keep on cutting.
Check out Just the Tip at 1819 Brackett Ave., Eau Claire, or online at justthetipbarbershop.godaddysites.com.
