CHIP'S IN CHIP. After founding and opening the doors to the Eau Claire Barber College in 2023, Chapin Turner (pictured) is expanding his business, Chip's Barbershop, with a location in Chippewa Falls.

For Chapin Turner, owner of Chip’s Barbershop in Eau Claire, there is immense pride in the brand he has spent the last seven years curating in the Chippewa Valley. After establishing both strong relationships with clients in the shop and students at the Eau Claire Barber College, the next step is clear: expansion.

The decision to add a new location was simple – and surprisingly smooth to accomplish. The process did not come without help, which he attributed to his father-in-law’s donation of time, labor, and the experience of his previous accomplishments. The new Chippewa Falls location, 224 N Bridge St., is slated to open on May 1.

“The fact that this would be our third time doing a build, it’s actually gone pretty smooth,” said Turner, referring to Chip’s Barbershop’s original opening in 2017, followed by the school for aspiring barbers in 2023.

“Expect professional barbers who take pride in their craft and understand the importance of a quality haircut.”

CHAPIN TURNER

OWNER OF CHIP'S BARBERSHOP

“I have learned so much in this process,” Turner said. “Instead of focusing on the problems, I’ve learned to focus on the solutions.”

While Chip’s has clients who travel from Chippewa Falls – if not further – the need for a new location goes beyond serving established customers. For the students and soon-to-be barbers at the college, it’s an opportunity to work closer to home, or just an opportunity to freshen the pool of clientele. But for the community, it offers men and masculine individuals something more personal.

“I feel like a lot of men are tired of getting their hair cut in salons and would much rather have a barber cutting their hair,” Turner said. He also noted the importance of delivering adequate service to ethnic hair types, which Turner emphasizes in his own craft.

As for the existing client base, they can expect the same banter they have grown to love in Eau Claire. “Expect professional barbers who take pride in their craft and understand the importance of a quality haircut,” said Turner, who will champion the Chippewa Falls location until the next Barber College class begins in September when he will station himself full-time at the college while overseeing the shops.

The Chippewa Falls location of Chip’s Barbershop plans to open its doors May 1 at 224 N Bridge St., Suite B. • To book an appointment at either location, visit the Chip’s Barbershop website • Keep up with Chip’s on Facebook