One Year of Studio Eighty 4: What It Really Feels Like to Build a Barbershop From Scratch

One year ago, I opened the doors to Studio Eighty 4 with a pair of clippers, a vision, and a lot of hope.
Twelve months later, I can say this: nothing prepares you for what it means to run your own barbershop — and yet, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

This blog isn’t just a celebration. It’s a reflection — of the cuts, the clients, the pressure, and the personal growth.

The Mixed Emotions of Year One

Owning a barbershop isn’t just about giving fades and lining beards. It’s about:

• Showing up, every day, even when you're tired or overwhelmed.

• Carrying the pressure to succeed — not just for yourself, but for your family and your clients.

• Staying motivated when no one’s watching, and pushing forward even when bookings are slow.

There were moments I was proud beyond words…
And other days where I questioned if I was doing enough.
That’s the real side of being a barber-business owner.

The Responsibility Behind the Chair

As a barber, you’re not just holding clippers. You’re holding space for people.

• People open up during haircuts.

• They share their goals, their stress, their stories.

• And it’s my job to not only make them look fresh — but feel seen and heard.

Every cut carries care. Every conversation, intention.
And I take that seriously.

The Role Model I Aim to Be

This first year reminded me: I’m not just a barber. I’m a business owner, a parent, and a daughter.

As a business owner:

I’m leading by example. Showing what it means to start small, dream big, and hustle hard.

As a parent:

I’m showing my children what resilience looks like. That you can build something from nothing — if you work with heart.

As a daughter:

I carry not just my name, but my family’s sacrifices. Their support keeps me going.
Sometimes I feel the weight of it all — but I turn it into fuel.

What One Year Has Taught Me

• Show up even when it’s hard — because your clients trust you.

• Stay humble — the journey is long, and you’re always learning.

• Celebrate the wins — big or small, they matter.

• Community is everything — my clients are my family now.

• It’s okay to feel heavy sometimes — but don’t stop.

 Thank You for Year One

To every client who sat in my chair — thank you.
To my family who watched me grow through sleepless nights and early mornings — I love you.
To myself — for not giving up: you did good.

Here’s to year two. Bigger goals, sharper cuts, stronger mindset.

If you’re reading this and thinking of starting your own journey — do it. You’ll figure it out as you go. Just don’t wait for perfect.

 Ready for Your Next Cut?

Let me help you look and feel your best — from someone who knows what it’s like to build from the ground up.

 Studio Eighty 4 – Travancore, Melbourne
Appointments + Walk-ins available
Book online or DM now