Today we’d like to introduce you to Devante Ellis.
Hi Devante, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I moved from Pennsylvania to DFW about 2 and half years ago. Completely started over from having a massive clientele at my old barbershop to starting at zero. with a wife and 1 son, it was scary, but I knew it was something I had to do. With the support of my wife, we took that leap! I took all the knowledge I had from boiling in Pennsylvania to Texas, and believing that it had to work, I was able to restart and build back up in 2 months! By month 6 it was like I never left. At month 6, I ended up purchasing a 24 ft trailer because I had dreams of building a mobile barbershop for over 6 years but never thought it was possible. Once it was completed, I ran into several issues that would discourage most but only made me hungrier. Things started to settle, and my first location lease was up, and I had to move so I committed to the trailer full-time, but that came to a halt when the city shut it down! I moved into another suite and had the crazy idea to knock a wall down in the space to make mini barbershop, and the owner agreed. in the process of construction of barbershop 1; one day I was on the trailer and driving I saw a salon pop up for lease in an area I’ve been looking into in Haslet TX. I turned around and got the number, and it was a price I couldn’t resist so I said to myself I have to do it even though I was still in construction on barbershop number 1. Long story short we have been open 2 months and growing. There’re more details I’m missing but here’s a start.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s never smooth when being an entrepreneur I’ve endeared challenges with multiple cities as well my mobile shop breaking on several occasions, health concerns. Not knowing if I would find barbers to fill the chairs.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
DTB stands for “Down To Business.” The reason why is because I love it. It’s hard and fulfilling at the same time. I love what I do, not just about cutting hair but the people I’ve met through the years that have helped me grow into the person I am today. I’m known for building relationships that last a lifetime with my clients. It’s more than a haircut, I say. I’ve been able to build friendships through the chair. And that’s what sets me apart. What I’m most proud of is how far I’ve came in a short time that sometimes take it for granted. As a whole, I want readers to know I wouldn’t be where I am if I didn’t stick by what I always say, and that’s you have to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that nothing comes from being afraid. Fear only holds you back from the success you deserve and always wanted.
Contact Info:
- Website: dtbbarbershop.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/dblessthebarber
- Facebook: Facebook.com/dtbbarbershop
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dblessthebarber
