Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Copeland.
Hi Katie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I grew up in Nassau County and I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. My journey into the hair industry began when I went to hair school, but what really shaped me was the mix of loss and resilience I faced when I first started my business.
During the first year of opening my barbershop I went through some of the hardest moments of my life. I was married for only three weeks when my husband tragically passed away one month later. Not long after that, my mom also died, and then COVID hit. It felt like one storm after another, and I was left trying to keep myself and my brand new business afloat through grief and uncertainty.
Instead of letting it break me, I poured everything into building something that could last. I started with one barbershop and a vision, and through long hours and an obsession with both quality and culture, I grew it into multiple thriving locations across Nassau County. I learned how to wear every role, from owner to manager to barber, and I became passionate about creating a workplace that truly supports my team while giving clients the best possible experience.
It has never been easy. There were financial hurdles, tough staffing decisions, and the constant balancing act of being both an owner and a technician. But I stayed focused on my purpose, which was to build something meaningful, provide opportunities for others, and prove that with faith and persistence you can turn pain into purpose.
Today I am proud that our shops are not just places for haircuts, but places of connection, confidence, and community. I am still growing, both personally and professionally, and I am excited for what comes next whether that is expanding the business, continuing to mentor others, or building the family I have always dreamed of.
And with all of that, we are now doing well over a million dollars in haircuts a year. That is something I never would have imagined considering I dropped out of high school and started this business completely from scratch. No handouts, no investors, just a small credit card and a little bit of cash to get started.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the biggest obstacles for me was the decision to stop wearing so many hats trying to manage the place cutting hair and being CEO was just too much for me. I had to make the decision to stop wearing so many hats and to focus on growing the business! There have been issues with staffing, and I had to learn how to put processes and systems into every aspect of the business to make it thrive. And just overall learning to create a culture that not only attracts the right staff, but keeps them.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about On deck barbershops ?
Our brand is called On Deck Barber Shops, and under that umbrella we have three locations: Yulee Barbers, South End Barbers on Amelia Island, and West End Barbers in Callahan. Each location has its own personality and team, but together we share the same standard of quality, culture, and community.
What we do goes beyond just cutting hair. We specialize in modern barbering with an emphasis on precision, consistency, and customer care. We are known for creating an atmosphere where people feel welcome the moment they walk through the door. Whether it is a quick trim, a beard service, or a full experience, our goal is for every client to leave looking sharp and feeling confident.
One thing I really love about our shops is how efficient and accommodating we are. Even if someone does not have an appointment, we always make sure they are taken care of. If a client finds themselves in a last-minute situation and needs a cut, we do everything we can to make it happen.
What sets us apart is the culture we have built. All of our barbers have their own unique style of cutting hair, but overall clients can always expect a solid, quality haircut. And beyond the skills, some of our barbers are genuinely the best people I have ever met. The work ethic, the dedication, and the genuine kindness they bring to the shop every day is something I am proud to stand behind.
Brand-wise, I am most proud that On Deck Barber Shops has grown into a trusted name in Nassau County. We are doing well over a million dollars in haircuts a year, but more importantly, we have built a reputation for quality, community, and opportunity.
I want readers to know that when they come to any of our shops, they are not just getting a haircut, they are experiencing the culture and care of a team that is passionate about the craft and about people.
Any big plans?
Looking ahead, my plans are to continue building On Deck Barber Shops into an even stronger brand across Nassau County and beyond. I want to keep refining our systems so that each location runs smoothly and consistently, no matter who walks through the door. Expansion is always on the horizon, but I am focused on doing it the right way by building reliable teams and a culture that can grow with us. I am also passionate about mentoring younger barbers and creating opportunities for them to build real careers in this industry. On a personal level, I want to continue investing in myself as a leader, staying creative, and making sure our shops remain places where people feel proud to work and where clients know they are always taken care of.
Pricing:
- 25-60
Contact Info:
