With extra time and a lot of nervous energy, I changed careers by going to cosmetology school. But even after graduation and having my license, I was scared. It took about six months to feel comfortable enough to touch someone’s hair with scissors.

Then a friend from school invited me to come work at Pigtails & Crewcuts. At first, I thought, “Kids? I don’t know…” But I also saw something important that I wanted:

• A chance to grow
• A chance to learn
• A chance to become more comfortable as a stylist without feeling judged the way adults sometimes judge

Kids are honest, but they’re not harsh, which made it easier to get started. I learned to cut hair professionally while working at Pigtails & Crewcuts, and the experience turned into so much more than just a job.

Falling in Love With Kids’ Haircuts in Buford, Georgia

Somebody told me recently, “It was meant to be. The universe put you in the right place at the right time.” And that’s how it feels. I didn’t grow up thinking, “One day I’ll own a kids’ salon near the Mall of Georgia.”

But I fell in love with:

• The energy of the kids—so sweet, raw, and genuine
• Their little blue and brown eyes staring up at me while I’m cutting
• The way they remember my name and ask, “Where’s my stylist?”
• The random hugs and silly little noises we make together during a haircut

Those moments fill my heart. Babies came in for their first haircut and, years later, those same kids walk in talking, laughing, and telling me about school, dance recitals, and holiday events. It’s beautiful to watch them grow up in my chair.

Why I Bought a Pigtails & Crewcuts Franchise

As a second-generation Mexican American, the idea of owning a business always felt like a dream that was “too far away.” Any time you say, “I want to open something,” people around you often respond with:

• “It’s too expensive.”
• “It’s too hard.”
• “It will never happen.”

So, I never imagined I’d own a Pigtails & Crewcuts franchise in Buford, GA.

I started as a stylist, then became the lead stylist, and finally became the manager. I was always there — showing up, helping when someone called in, holding down the salon when it got busy. Over time, I ran the salon day-to-day.

When I learned the salon was for sale, I didn’t imagine I could be the buyer. But the prior owner challenged me.

I went home to think about it, but didn’t know how to make it happen. The franchise team explained there were ways to find funding. I learned I had what I needed — good credit, a house, motivation — and step by step, it came together.

Even now, two years later, I still have moments where I think, “Wow, we’re really doing this. The lights are on, the bills are paid, the team is here, and families keep coming back.”

Why the Mall of Georgia Area Is the Perfect Spot for a Kids Haircut Salon

The Mall of Georgia area in Buford is growing quickly. It’s the heart of Gwinnett County. When nearby malls started closing, more families began coming to the Mall of Georgia area.

Around us you’ll find:

• The Mall of Georgia
• Target, Costco, Ross, Marshalls
• New apartment communities and neighborhoods

Families come from all over to shop, eat, and run errands. They drive right past our building, and when they leave the mall, they see the back of our salon. That constant traffic means more parents finding us.

With so many new apartments and homes nearby, there are hundreds of kids who need regular haircuts — babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and kids up to age 12.

Being in this location at this time seems like the universe lined things up.

A Welcoming, Sensory-Friendly Space for Every Child

My dream for Pigtails & Crewcuts – Mall of Georgia is simple: I want every family to feel welcome.

That includes:

• Kids who love haircuts
• Kids who fear haircuts
• Kids with sensory challenges who might not like the feel or sound of clippers
• First-time parents who are nervous about their baby’s first haircut

I’ve built relationships with families over the years. I’ve seen their babies turn into big kids. I know their stories, and they know mine. I want parents to walk out feeling supported, and kids to leave with a great haircut, a big smile, and the feeling that this is “their” place.

I have no script — just genuine connection and care.

Why Being Present in the Salon Matters

If someone asked me for advice about buying a kids’ haircut franchise, I’d tell them they have to care about serving people, and they have to be present.

Before I became the owner, I realized how important it is for owners to be involved — especially on those days when:

• The schedule was full
• A stylist called out
• The phone wouldn’t stop ringing
• And one person was juggling everything

That experience shaped how I run my salon. I work alongside my team. When they see that I’m willing to work as hard as they do, they believe in the dream with me.

Come Visit Us at Pigtails & Crewcuts – Mall of Georgia

While I didn’t plan on owning a kids’ hair salon in Buford, Georgia, I’m grateful that life brought me here.

If you’re looking for:

• A gentle baby’s first haircut experience
• A patient stylist for an anxious toddler
• A fun, kid-focused salon near the Mall of Georgia
• Or just a place where your child is seen and welcomed

…I’d love to meet your family.

Come visit Pigtails & Crewcuts – Mall of Georgia in Buford, GA, and let’s make haircut day something your child looks forward to.