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Life & Work with John And Cynthia Cruz of Winter Haven

Today we’d like to introduce you to John And Cynthia Cruz

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
“My husband, John Cruz, and I are the proud owners of The Vintage Barber Lounge in Winter Haven, FL. We’ve been in business for 15 months now, but this vision has been years in the making. In fact, we’ve been planning and manifesting it for the past 15 years since we first met. John has a strong background, having learned both the hair and construction trades from his parents, while I earned a degree in communications marketing and even attended law school. We’ve combined our skills, experience, and passions to create what we believe is the best barbershop in Winter Haven.

Now, every day, we get to work alongside our talented team of professional barbers, which is an amazing experience. The fact that we’re able to build this business together and see our hard work come to life is incredibly fulfilling.”

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While the journey has been incredibly rewarding, it definitely hasn’t been without its challenges. Starting a business from the ground up is never easy, and we’ve faced our fair share of obstacles along the way. One of the biggest challenges has been balancing the different aspects of the business, from day-to-day operations to managing a team, all while ensuring we stay true to our vision.

We’ve also had to navigate the complexities of the industry—things like staying on top of trends, building a loyal customer base, and managing finances, all while keeping the quality of service high. But through it all, we’ve been committed to learning, adapting, and staying focused on what we wanted to create. The hard work has certainly paid off, and each challenge has only made us stronger and more determined.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At The Vintage Barber Lounge, we specialize in providing not just a haircut, but an experience. Our clients come to us for the highest quality haircuts, but they also leave feeling truly relaxed and taken care of. We offer top-tier packages that include a relaxing facial steam and sinus massage, giving our clients a moment of calm and rejuvenation during their visit. We also provide free whiskey or beer to our clients, adding that extra touch of hospitality and relaxation.

What really sets us apart is our commitment to serving our clients beyond just haircuts. We offer free notary services to anyone who needs it, and I personally serve as our in-house agent, offering real estate services and family law mediation. I’m also in the process of obtaining my life insurance license, so our vision is to be a one-stop shop for all of our clients’ needs. After enjoying the best haircut they’ve ever had, our clients can also get help with finding insurance, securing a home, or even navigating legal matters. It’s all about creating a space where people not only feel good about how they look, but they feel supported in other aspects of their lives too. We’re incredibly proud of the community we’ve built and the fact that we’re able to offer such a wide range of services to help our clients live their best lives.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Our biggest piece of advice for those just starting out is to stay positive and never stop manifesting and visualizing your goals every single day. The road to success is rarely smooth, and there will always be challenges along the way, but keeping a clear vision and a positive mindset will help you push through those tough times. There’s a lot of power in believing in yourself and your dream—if you stay focused and work hard, you’ll see the results.

Looking back, one thing we wish we had known when we started is just how important it is to be adaptable. There are so many unexpected twists and turns in business, and being able to pivot and stay flexible can make all the difference. Trust your instincts, surround yourself with people who support you, and never underestimate the power of hard work and persistence. Keep working toward your vision, even when it feels difficult, because with patience and dedication, everything can fall into place.

Pricing:

  • Kids cuts $20
  • Senior cuts $15 & up
  • Adults cuts $25 & up
  • Top package $45
  • Products $8 & up

Contact Info:

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