Washington Street Barber Shop Celebrates 10th Anniversary in Downers Grove

When Sandie Agee and Geri Hulbert started working as barbers more than 25 years ago, there were hardly any women in the industry.

Today, not only are the duo considered pioneers in their field, they also have a successful business to show for it.

Agee and Hulbert co-own Washington Street Barber Shop, located at 5115 Washington St. in downtown Downers Grove. This year marks their 10th anniversary, a milestone neither of them expected to reach.

"It's definitely still a man's world, but I think we've managed to bring something different and special to what we do, which I think has made our little shop survive all these years," Agee said. 

Barbering, though not as popular a profession as hairstyling, is considered somewhat of an art in the cosmetology field. Under state law, only barbers are licensed to shave or trim beards, and they must have completed at least 1,500 hours in the study of barbering.

Agee said she and Hulbert both became barbers at a time when men were leaving the profession.

"I had been styling hair, but there was something about barbering that I just enjoyed more," Agee said. "Once we decided to go down that path, it did take some time to prove ourselves, especially because most men were used to having a male barber."

Prior to their March 2003 opening on Washington Street, Agee and Hulbert worked together at another downtown barber shop. When the old shop closed, they decided it was the perfect opportunity to go into business together.

However, after more than 10 years and thousands of haircuts and shaves, Agee and Hulbert are more like family than business partners.

"Our circumstances brought about an opportunity for a new beginning, which Geri and I decided to embark on together," Agee said. "It's been a wonderful ride."

The secret to success, Agee said, is their customer-centered approach to business. Their services are also affordable; customers can still get a buzz cut for just $10, and are even treated to free baked goods on Saturday mornings.

"There's no doubt that the loyalty of our customers has kept us going, so we try to be good to them, too," Agee said. "Downers Grove is very supportive of its local businesses. Who knows if we would have lasted this long somewhere else."

Agee and Hulbert will be celebrating their 10th anniversary all week, culminating in a small party with clients and friends Saturday. The shop will serve cake and appetizers, and will even host a barber shop quartet for some entertainment at 11:30 a.m. 

"We just wanted something small and fun to celebrate the anniversary with our loyal clients and those who have supported us all these years," Agee said. "We owe it all to them.

Washington Street Barber is open Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

There are plenty of ways to keep up on Downers Grove news:

• Sign up for our daily email newsletter

• Like us on Facebook for a slightly different take