By Susan E. Campbell
A woman-owned, woman-run barbershop may be a rare thing, but a new one has come to Fort Edward.
Liv’s Broadway Barbershop opened at 128 Broadway on Nov. 15. It is the first business owned by Olivia Cabana, originally a resident of Queensbury and a trained barber for the past five years.
“I always wanted my own business,” said Cabana. “The last shop I worked for was privately owned by a good friend. I didn’t realize it was something I could do on my own.”
But after observing what it was like to have a business, Cabana thought it would be “a fun thing to do” as well as “a dream and a goal.” And so far, she said, “I am pleased with what I have accomplished.”
As a barber, Cabana does hair for boys and men, from a skin fade to an all-over scissors cut.
“The shop is not focused on haircuts for women,” she said.
But that may change. While she is only one person now, there is an open chair to rent, which she prefers to hold for someone who does women’s hair.
“Then we will appeal to all and won’t be turning people away. I don’t like telling people ‘no’,” she said. We will still be a barbershop. I won’t be changing the name.”
Liv’s Broadway Barbershop is operating the old-fashioned way: just walk in. She does not take appointments, but Cabana said “there may be a short 15 or 20 minute wait.”
Her goal is to provide “a hometown, comfy feel with a good vibe and a rustic look,” she said. The space is decorated with barn wood and gray tones.
The storefront she occupies previously housed an antique store and was vacant when she decided to set up shop. The building also houses two art galleries on the ground floor and three apartment units above.
Cabana held a soft opening on Nov. 15 and a grand opening Nov. 21 that included free haircuts.
“Business was a little slow at first, but as weeks went on, we were doing very well for a new business,” she said. “Everybody in Fort Edward is supportive. I want to fit in and have a comfortable place for them to come and get a good haircut.”
She also wants to focus on community involvements.
“This time next year I hope to be able to offer gift cards and donate services to charities,” she said. “I do want to be a successful business in the community and give back to it.”