Startup Corner: Ryan Mulcahy and Dacy Mace, Rogue Barber Co. LLC

Minimally viable product …
We specialize in classic and more modernly developed barbering techniques to offer our clients quality above all else. We also have a private, full-service waxing studio. We’ve grown from one to four chairs in just over a year. Because we are primarily service oriented, we focus on the quality of our craft and the relationships we build with our guests, and they recognize that.

Problem solving …
There’s been an overwhelming increase this past year in the men’s grooming industry; it’s estimated to bring in $21 billion in revenue in 2016. We’ve seen the response to that need on a local level, with a resurgence of new barbershops all over the city. So our challenge of course, was to create and offer something that would set us apart. That not only includes delivering a quality service, but also investing the time and energy in every client to ensure each time they visit is meaningful.

Seed money …
We had the unique and fortunate opportunity to receive a small loan from a private investor. Both my wife’s parents and mine are successful local business owners, so we’ve also had the privilege of having amazing mentors to help guide us.

Next phase …
From the outset, we’ve never had the ambition to grow beyond being able to control the quality of what walks out our door. So we will never expand beyond our current walls until we are confident that what we can offer at a secondary location is to the level of quality that we offer now. I’ve had the privilege of being invited to be an educator for two amazing companies at the forefront of the industry, so being able to travel for them, and come back to the shop and share new things with our team has been a wonderful opportunity.

Advice …
We really try and only focus on the good. Dacy’s father, Guy Mace, has been a local businessman for almost 40 years. He’s always advised us to take the high road, no matter what. Even if you take a loss, it’s only temporary. But if you can look back on your endeavors and efforts and truly say you have no regrets in how you’ve operated, that’s a priceless feeling.