Ryan’s Chair’s Gilchrist: Stay Ready, Take Ownership

Ryan Gilchrist, owner of the Ryan’s Chair barbershop in Youngstown, is coming back strong, along with his brother, Kyle. You can learn more about Ryan’s Chair at its Facebook page.

What are some ways the COVID-19 outbreak has affected your organization, and how is it rebounding? 

We have never experienced such a hit as a small business. Ryan’s Chair was mandated to close March 11. I will never forget the look on our faces when the orders came marching from the State Board. My team and I were devastated, scared and unsure. Shutting down for us meant no income, and we faced this dilemma for almost 12 weeks. 

COVID-19 did show us who we were: strong, resilient and faith-driven. We are not back to doing business as we did pre-COVID-19, but we are back, one client at a time. We are making sure to space our clients out in order for us to disinfect and sanitize our space and equipment. Also, we are wearing masks (both stylist and clients), offering sanitizer throughout the salon, and wiping down doors and items that are touched frequently.

How has the outbreak affected your personal life?

This pandemic allowed me to see that I am blessed. I was able to spend quality time with my family, rest and enjoy just being home. I realized that sometimes, we work so hard believing we are doing the right thing for our families, when our families just want us more than material things. 

I also saw my faith kick up a notch. To go from having money flow daily in the barber/beauty sector to having nothing. That was a huge awakening. But thank God we had everything we needed.

What steps are you taking to come back strong? 

Ryan’s Chair has been serving this community for over 20 years at our Glenwood location. We appreciate the fact that our community recognizes us as a staple. This is our why! This is why we will continue to work hard to meet the needs of clients and maintain a safe environment.

For us, coming back strong does not look the same way it did before March 11. Now, it is about making sure our clients feel confident enough in our ability to maintain a clean and safe environment. In addition, my wife and I are working on another business venture that still connects my passion for hair to clients and the community. Changing your strategy to adapt to changes in the industry and economy is part of the entrepreneurial life.

What advice are you sharing with the people you love?

Stay ready so you do not have to get ready. 

I want those around me to evaluate where they are, see what was lacking through this pandemic, and be ready if a situation like a shutdown happens in the future. Whether due to a virus or just personal reasons, be wise with your spending and stay saved up! Ownership is also key, so let’s take this opportunity and start purchasing property.