Today we’d like to introduce you to Joshua Stone.
Hi Joshua, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I remember the first time I picked up clippers, it was out of spite. I grew up in a christian household and part of our weekly routine to get ready for sunday morning worship was to get a haircut on saturday nights. My dad would cut my two younger brothers and myself. When I look back , I cherish those times and the conversation we had during that time. The haircuts would come out nice , but they were never really what we wanted. We only had the choice between a light caesar and a high and tight. At the age of fifteen I was becoming more sure myself and my style , and so I took my hair into my own hands. It didn’t come out perfect, but it what was something I created and that ignited a passion in me that has yet to go away. I spent so much time watching youtube videos from professionals learning how to cut all types of hair. I started cutting my 2 brothers, my friends and people from the neighborhood and mainly people from my church family. That’s how I got my name. The name seemed silly at the time but I knew that God was blessing me to be a blessing to others. At the age of 18 i got a job at anthony’s barber salon in Abingdon, MD and began my apprenticeship with Anthony Barmer. I worked at that shop for 7 years, i was known for my creative designs and line work. In 2020 during the pandemic presented an opportunity to start out on my own. I moved to a salon suites building right outside of baltimore which presented an opportunity to expand my clientele. I was super ambitious and dm’d every athlete in baltimore I could think of. I never wanted to be a celebrity barber but I know the stamp of approval from someone on their level would bring credibility to the services I provided. I’ve been blessed to cut and create relationships with many ravens players and staff but more important to me are my amazing regular clients that have supported my over years. I’ve shared in birthdays, weddings ,childbirths, anniversaries, job promotions etc. That’s the beauty of this profession for me, growing in community with people from all walks of life, its priceless.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I would say someone struggles learning how to be a business person. It’s always been easy to cut hair and grow in skill that way, but learning the background things to make a business successful was and still is a challenge. From the marketing to finding out what to charge for services. When you’re on your own you get to call the shots, but sometimes you second guess yourself. I definitely dealt with a lot of imposter syndrome along the way.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a master barber and stylist. I’m known for my creative line work and my designs. I also do a lot of women short cuts and color services as well. Not a lot of barbers nowadays are seeking to learn all styles, but I pride myself in that I can cut anybody and any style that comes into my chair.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
It’s not really news that people don’t know about me , but i’m surprised by it every day so its appropriate. In october , I will have been married to my best friend and wife Brieana Stone for 7 years. She has been my biggest support through all of this, and none of it would be possible without her.
Another thing people might not knkw is I love the conversation and debate aspect of the Barbershop, i cant stand silence. I often bring up topics that are controversial just to get people chatting. I also love documentaries so more often than not ill have one on when you come in.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thechurchbarber.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/thechurchbarber
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/thechurchbarber
