THE GROOMED STUDIO & SALON

Written by Betsy O'Leary - Photos by Riyen Helg

“It’s a vibe.” Those are the words of talented barber and up-and-coming businessman, Teal Myers, when he and his wife, Fallon, recently described Teal’s deep passion for the art of barbering.

By the tender age of 10, Teal drew inspiration from the local barber who became more like extended family. As a boy and then a young man, Teal was drawn to the conviviality of the barbershop. It was a place for different personalities sporting the latest hairstyles and swag to celebrate their culture, the spot where men laughed and swapped stories while getting a shave and a fade.

This early connection stayed with Teal. Learning the barbering trade was the natural extension of his youthful curiosity.

But while he learned much about the trade in those early years, the burgeoning businessman in Teal soon emerged.

Five years ago, with Fallon’s steadfast support, Teal took the plunge and opened his own barbershop in Ponchatoula, The Groomed Studio & Salon. There, he honed his styling and salon skills while building a solid team of talented barbers and stylists.

After five years there, the opportunity arose to move his salon to a spacious spot in downtown Hammond, and Teal jumped on it. Once he made the deal, they moved to 209 East Thomas in Hammond. There, Teal established his modern, upscale salon that serves patrons of all ages.

Teal brought along two essential team members from his Ponchatoula salon, Shea Verbois and Colby Watson. More than an employee, Shea is a treasured family friend who came with tons of experience acquired from owning his own salon. Shea’s presence gives Teal peace of mind, knowing that he can step away from the salon and it will thrive under Shea’s stewardship.

Colby came to Teal fresh out of high school and full of energy. Teal gave him opportunities, and he’s flourishing as a vital member of the team.

Clientele include men, women, and children for their salon services, like their charcoal masks, revitalizing steaming facials, shampoos, blow-outs, beard trims, and razor work. Teal and his team of stylists keep up with all the latest styles of braids, knotless braids, twists, retwists, and dreadlocks. They also offer complimentary soft drinks, coffee, tea, red and white wine, champagne, whiskey and bourbon.

Teal is not one to rest on his laurels. Intrigued with the idea of spreading his entrepreneurial wings in another direction, he has plans to turn his former Ponchatoula location into a barber school. Within the next six months, his dream of offering others the opportunity to learn the barber trade will begin. If all goes according to plan, he will be accepting his first class for fall 2024 enrollment.

Teal wanted to send a special thanks to his mom and dad for their constant prayers and support. "I glean from them for the path they have created for me and the light they have given to the community."

You can check out Teal and his team online at thegroomedstudio.com. They can also be found on Instagram, Facebook, and Google, or download their free app, thegroomedstudio. Fallon adds that they are always looking to expand their team, and welcomes licensed barbers and stylists to come in and apply for positions with The Groomed Studio & Salon.