Today we’d like to introduce you to Cory Wallace.
Cory, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I relocated to Charleston, South Carolina, at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. I initially established myself at the Daniel Island Barber Shop, where I worked from 2019 to 2021. Leveraging that experience, I took a leap in late 2021/early 2022 to open my own venture, The Stag Pad Barber Shop in Mount Pleasant.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Opening a small business is rarely a smooth road; it comes with its fair share of obstacles and challenges. The most important things are maintaining consistency, having a solid plan of action, and building a supportive circle of peers, friends, and family. The first major challenge was finding a suitable location—one I could manage independently while still being close enough to retain a significant portion of my existing clientele. The second critical step was structuring the business to run efficiently and effectively from an operational standpoint.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The Stag Pad Barber Shop (TSP) is a veteran-owned men’s parlor dedicated to providing professional, prompt, and consistent barbering services to the local community. What truly differentiates TSP is our commitment to servicing all hair types and nationalities. We integrate technology into our operations, offering online bookings, a mobile app for easy appointment management, and a subscription membership option. My goal is to not only meet but exceed customer expectations through superb service, impeccable cleanliness, and meticulous attention to detail. We are known for providing the best fades and beard grooming in Mount Pleasant.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Finding a mentor is not just helpful; it’s an essential part of business growth. If you cannot secure a dedicated mentor, you must actively join networking functions that put you in proximity to people who are succeeding in similar fields. A key factor in my own journey was participating in the Minority Business Accelerator (MBA) program, which was held by the Charleston Chamber of Commerce. That program connected me with other business owners, crucial resources, and people genuinely dedicated to helping small businesses grow and thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thestagpadbarbershop.com/
- Instagram: Corywallace.52
