Summer 2023 Pricing Updates
Holy inconsistent weather, Batman! The start to this summer has included every season the year has to offer. But I guess that's why the saying goes, “Don’t like Treasure Valley weather? Just wait 15 minutes.” On top of the beautiful weather, the neighborhood has absolutely exploded with more life than I have ever seen in the decade I’ve spent living in the neighborhood! The corner of Latah & Alpine has become the hub of the Bench with all of the foot traffic brought in from some of the best restaurants in Boise (Petite 4, Wyld Chyld, Primal Coffee) within a 2 minute walk from The Barber Story.
We have been thrilled to watch the weather and neighborhood grow from our front window, but we are all experiencing a bit of the blues since we don’t have the time individually to get outside with how incredibly booked out we all are. Growth is always one of the biggest struggles as a small business, especially since all four barbers operate as independent businesses. Unlike working for most major employers in the Valley, we don’t get PTO from a company that takes care of our payroll, and every dollar that comes in has to be accounted for with our groceries, our sick time, and our much needed time away.
Speaking on behalf of all four barbers, this is also one of the greatest joys of being a small business owner. We get to be supported by people we build tangible relationships with, and that community wants to see us succeed in the Treasure Valley the same way they do. It has always been our clients that tell us that we need to take a look at our pricing structure before we actually make the shop decision to listen to their advice. With most of our barbers booked out between 3-6 weeks, it has been incredibly difficult to rebook appointments without planning 3 months in advance, and that’s not even allowing for new clients to have time to find an opening to check out the shop. Having said that, effective August 1st, 2023, new prices for our service menu will begin, and you will see an increase from $2-$5 for individual services. We know that for most of you, this is barely the difference of a single cup of coffee in your monthly haircut, and it shouldn’t impact your daily life, but for the four of us this will ensure our ability to stay on the Bench, take care of medical emergencies and “life happens” moments without stress, as well as keep up with the pace of our competition in the Valley, so thank you in advance for your understanding and continued patronage.
In addition to the big news of the year, some of our barbers (myself included) have begun offering professional photo sessions alongside haircuts as a way for local business professionals to have updated headshots for websites like LinkedIn or their company intranet. You will never look better than leaving a barbershop, so why not have us do the headshot for you as well? It can save you the hassle of finding and booking a photographer, trying to find a studio location you have never visited before, as well as dealing with downtown parking. Our professionally lit photo studio is located in the back room of the barbershop, and you can have your headshots back to you within 48-72 hours. Take a look in your barber’s service list to see if they are currently offering the service, or ask them about it during your next haircut.
For those who have been following The Barber Story since 2015, it always amazes me to see how this website started as a blog, but has truly transformed my existence into one of purpose and value. I love being a part of the growth of Boise, and I can’t wait to see you in the shop.
-Chris Bentley
owner of The Barber Story