BBRAXTON is not your grandfather’s barber shop. And owner Brenda Braxton didn’t want it to be. The Harlem parlor is an upscale men’s grooming salon that attracts guys looking for a little pampering, serving everyone from celebrities to businessmen to men from around the way with men’s spa services.
With the tag line “Exceptional grooming for exceptional men,” BBRAXTON combines a traditional gentlemen’s club, a barbershop and spa, offering services such as hot towel straight razor shaves, haircuts and styling, reflexology, massage and skin care.
Braxton launched BBRAXTON in 2006. Prior she was focused on her acting career. But when the Tony nominated Broadway actress noticed the void in men grooming services, she acted on her hunch.
The native New Yorker graduated from the High School for the Performing Arts and went on to act in Broadway productions including Chicago: The Musical, Guys And Dolls, and Smokey Joe’s Cafe.
Her current venture, after a few ups and downs, is now a hit and she’s ready to move forward. In 2009, Braxton was the only woman honored with the “Men of Style Award ” given by Gillette Fuzion.
Braxton has also founded a not -for-profit organization in 1996 called Leading Ladies Just for Teens, which offers seminars that empower young girls.
MadameNoire Business spoke with Braxton over the phone about her plans for developing the BBRAXTON brand.
