Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Thomas
Hi Amber, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
You know, it’s funny how life can take you on the most unexpected journeys. Back in college, I was immersed in my fine arts studies, working toward my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. But in the evenings, our dorm lobby turned into a makeshift salon. I’d grab my scissors and a pair of cheap Conair clippers—no guards, mind you—and start cutting hair for free. Looking back, it’s hilarious how we managed with such basic tools, but as broke college students, we made it work!
Cutting hair was my way of giving back to my little community and keeping my creative juices flowing. It was like sculpting, but with hair. One of my best friends today actually started out as someone whose hair I styled back then—a bond formed over an impromptu hot comb, flat iron, scissors and laughter.
After graduation, I found myself in the “real world,” hopping between office jobs that felt more like nightmares than careers. Let’s just say data entry wasn’t exactly fueling my creative spirit! I craved something more—freedom, creativity, and the chance to really grow both personally and financially. So, I took a leap of faith and got my barbering license.
My first gig was at a Dominican barbershop where I was the only Black woman and the only one who didn’t speak Spanish. Talk about stepping out of your comfort zone! But those guys taught me a lot, and I think I earned their respect the day a client asked for a complex hair design and I nailed it—thanks to my art background, of course.
One day, a fellow barber school grad reached out and asked if I was ready to work for myself. I was nervous—leaving a steady (though super modest) paycheck is no small decision—but I knew it was time. I moved to a barbershop and beauty salon owned by a renowned barber, and it was like stepping into a whole new world. Surrounded by talented barbers and stylists, I dove deeper into cutting, coloring and styling hair. It was a beautiful chapter in my journey.
All these experiences led me to open the Executive Grooming Company in South Downtown Orlando. It’s a cozy barbering studio where bearded gentlemen can indulge in something I like to call the “Sauna Shave.” Imagine an elevated hot towel shave that includes facial cleansing, exfoliation, steam, and moisturizing—basically a spa day for your face! We also offer facial and neck waxing for those looking to take their grooming to the next level.
What I love most is creating an elevated barbering experience where clients can relax and feel truly taken care of. Seeing someone walk out looking and feeling amazing? That’s the real reward. It’s been an incredible journey, combining my love for art and creativity with a passion for helping others look sharp and feel confident.
So that’s my story—just a girl next door who followed her passion, embraced the twists and turns, and found joy in making others smile (and look pretty clean, if I do say so myself!).
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Oh boy, where do I even start? The road has definitely been anything but smooth! Being a woman in a male-dominated industry like barbering has its unique set of challenges. In the early days, I’d have men walk into the shop, see me, and immediately assume I didn’t know a thing about cutting men’s hair. Some would flat-out refuse to let me cut their hair! It felt like I was constantly having to prove myself, and let me tell you, that can get exhausting real quick.
And then there were the downright uncomfortable moments. I remember one time, I was giving a client a lineup, totally focused, and out of nowhere, he leaned in and licked the back of my hand! I was in shock and, frankly, pretty upset. I remember trying to minimize the attention drawn to the incident at the time because I was so uncomfortable. I hadn’t figured out how to navigate this masculine space yet. That was a turning point for me. I realized I needed to establish extremely clear boundaries to exist in this space with men and to ensure I was respected. Since then, I’ve made it a point to set those boundaries right from the get-go, and thankfully, I don’t get disrespected like that anymore.
Working in environments where I was the odd one out also came with its hurdles. In my first shop, I dealt with coworker drama that was nearly impossible to resolve because of language barriers—I could barely speak their language! It was a crash course in patience, understanding, and learning how to set boundaries without words. When I moved to the next shop, the small moments of drama didn’t vanish, but at least we could communicate, which made things a bit easier.
Eventually, I realized I thrived when I had more independence. Moving into my own studio was a game-changer for my social battery—I finally had the space to recharge! But it also came with new challenges. Suddenly, I was a one-woman show, and no one knew I existed unless I put myself out there. That’s when I discovered the power of social media. I dove into building my brand as @thatbarberamber and @theexecutivegroomingco, learning the ins and outs of marketing myself online.
All these experiences—the good, the bad, and the downright bizarre—have shaped me and helped propel my business forward. Each struggle taught me invaluable lessons and made me more resilient. So, while the road hasn’t been smooth, it’s been a journey of growth, and I wouldn’t trade those bumps for anything.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Executive Grooming Company. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
The Executive Grooming Company is my little haven tucked away in South Downtown Orlando, where we’ve transformed the typical barbering experience into something special for bearded gentlemen.
We specialize in what I like to call the “Sauna Shave.” It’s not just a shave—it’s an experience. We start with a deep facial cleanse and exfoliation, then warm steam gently opens up your pores. The shave itself is so smooth, we use a moisturizing warm shave cream.The Sauna Shave leaves your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. Think of it as a spa day, but tailored specifically for your beard and skin.
What sets us apart is the personal touch and the artistic approach I bring to grooming. With my background in fine arts, I see each service as a form of artistry. It’s about crafting a look that truly suits each individual. I wanted to create a space where men could feel comfortable indulging in a bit of self-care that’s often overlooked.
I’m really proud of the atmosphere we’ve created—a place where clients feel relaxed and valued. As a woman in this industry, establishing clear boundaries and fostering a respectful environment has been essential. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how this resonates with the people who walk through our doors.
I want readers to know that The Executive Grooming Company is more than just a place to get a haircut or a shave. It’s about the experience of taking a moment for yourself, unwinding, and leaving feeling better than when you came in. We also offer facial and neck waxing for those who appreciate the finer details in grooming.
So, if you or a bearded gentleman in your life is looking to prioritize the grooming routine, I’d love to welcome you to our little corner of Orlando. It’s all about feeling good, looking sharp, and enjoying the process along the way.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
You know, one of my absolute favorite childhood memories involves my grandpa and a set of magic markers. Growing up, my family would often gather at my grandparents’ house, and those times were filled with so much love and laughter. My grandpa absolutely spoiled me—I mean, he loved me just because I existed, and that kind of unconditional love is something truly special.
So picture this: little me in elementary school, full of creativity and maybe a bit too much audacity, asking my grandpa at a family event if I could draw on his bald head. Being the sweet man he was, he always let me! I’d whip out my magic markers and go to town, drawing comics right on the shiny crown of his head while everyone else mingled around us laughing. Thinking back, it’s hilarious that I had the nerve to do that, but he never seemed to mind.
He had that classic male pattern baldness—a shiny top with a little grey afro wrapping around the sides. My grandmother used to cut his hair right there in the kitchen. If he were still around today, I just know it would be amazing to be his barber. Maybe I’d trade the markers for clippers, but the sentiment would be the same.
Those moments with him weren’t just about doodling on his head; they were about the pure joy and connection we shared. It’s a memory that still warms my heart and brings a smile to my face. Nasty work, I know—haha—but it’s a testament to the loving, supportive family that helped shape who I am today.
Pricing:
- Sauna Shave: $55
- Haircut: $50
- Haircut with Sauna Shave: $75
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theexecutivegroomingcompany.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thatbarberamber
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thatbarberamber
