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Rising Stars: Meet Rina Tell of Spartanburg

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rina Tell.

Hi Rina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My Journey Into Barbering

My passion for cutting hair started long before I ever picked up a pair of clippers. Growing up, I watched my grandmother, my uncle, and my father cut hair at home. There was something about it that completely drew me in the focus, the transformation, and the confidence it gave people. By the time I was 13 years old, I knew I was deeply interested in barbering.

My very first client was my brother, Randy. That haircut took nearly two hours, but it sparked something in me that never left. Still, as I got older, I often heard that barbering wasn’t a reliable career and that I wouldn’t be able to make a real income doing it. Eventually, I put my dream on hold and spent years working warehouse jobs instead.

But the desire to cut hair never went away.

In 2019, I made the decision to finally chase my dream. I began working at my first barbershop, and it was a humbling experience. I walked in confident about my skills, but after seeing the level of talent around me, I realized I had so much more to learn. That realization didn’t discourage me it pushed me. I studied the craft, sharpened my techniques, and dedicated myself to improving every single day.

Over time, my growth showed. My skills improved, my confidence grew, and I began building a loyal clientele faster than I ever imagined. Each shop I worked in helped shape me, teaching me lessons not just about hair, but about professionalism, service, and perseverance.

After working in four different barbershops and gaining years of hands-on experience, I reached a milestone I once only dreamed about opening my own shop: Style by Grace Barber Studio.

This journey hasn’t been easy, but every setback, every lesson, and every challenge helped prepare me for where I am today. I truly believe God guided every step, opening doors, building my faith, and blessing me beyond what I could have imagined.

I am deeply grateful for the path that brought me here. Without the trials and the growth that came with them, I wouldn’t be the barber or the person I am today.

Thank you, Jesus, for the grace to keep going and the opportunity to live out my purpose.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey into barbering was not without challenges. While pursuing my education, I was also working to develop my skills in the barbering field. Balancing school responsibilities with hands-on training and preparing for the state board examination was one of the most demanding aspects of my path. However, that experience strengthened my discipline, time management, and commitment to my craft.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What do you do & what do you specialize in?
I’m a professional barber specializing in men’s haircuts, kids’ haircuts, beard grooming, and clean razor finishes. Whether it’s a sharp fade, a fresh lineup, or a detailed beard shape-up, I focus on precision and style that fits each client’s personality.

What are you known for?
I’m known for my craft and my mindset: quality over quantity. I don’t rush my chair. I take my time to make sure every cut is detailed, clean, and done right. My goal is for every client to leave not just looking good, but feeling confident and genuinely welcomed.

What are you most proud of?
One of my proudest moments was winning my first trophy as a student barber. That experience reminded me that hard work, passion, and dedication truly pay off and it pushed me to keep growing in my career.

What sets you apart from others?
What sets me apart is simple: I’m authentically me. I believe God created each of us with unique gifts, and barbering is one of mine. I truly love what I do, and that passion shows in every cut. Around Spartanburg, many people know me as Ling Blendz and I’m proud to say I’m the only barber here with that name. It means a lot when clients and the community recognize my work and trust me with their look.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
One of the most important qualities behind my success is authenticity. I believe in being genuine, approachable, and true to who I am. While I have a naturally fun and lighthearted personality, I also know how to create a comfortable, welcoming space where clients can relax and be themselves. That balance of professionalism and positive energy helps build real connections, and those relationships are just as important to me as the haircut itself.

Pricing:

  • Regular haircut $40
  • Haircut and Beard $50
  • Kids Haircut $35
  • Beard shape $20

Contact Info:

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