The sound of a clipper, or watching the precise movement from a blade, is in view when you step inside Gem City Barbershop.

Benjamin Santiago stated, “I’ve been a licensed barber since I was 18.” Santiago is also now a barbershop co-owner.

He and business partner Donald Woods opened the shop in 2023 after months of pursuing and planning. Woods said, “I kept going up and down the bayfront and seeing this location pretty vacant for a while, so I started taking note, looking in, and doing some research.”

Santiago stated, “It started off with just me, and then we got extra barbers down the road.”

Now, the seven chairs inside are filled with full-time professionals. That includes Breanna Bachmann — the only female in a shop full of male barbers.

Bachmann stated, “You know what? I’m the oldest girl of all brothers. Mom’s back then — it’s very expensive to get all your kids’ haircuts at once — so I decided I’d be a barber.”

She’s a multi-service barber who went to cosmetology school and does everything from color to braids and designs — showing how her job carries physical significance.

Bachmann added, “They come to you for their weddings, for their first day of school. They come to you when they are sad and just want a pick-me-up.”

For clients, eyebrow enhancements, hot towel treatments, and facial services are also offered.

Santiago stated, “A lot of men don’t really take care of their face, so I can help you with that, too.”

As the only barbershop along Erie’s bayfront, the shop sees plenty of visitors — from hotel guests to people just in the region for the day — along with loyal regulars.

But Gem City Barbershop also serves as a mentor to many in the industry who have not yet earned their barber license. They shadow the professional barbers over time to further learn the trade and train for the future.

Co-owner Donald Woods stated that he is “…proud of everybody here.”

Pride shown from a non-barber who has been in the industry for many years and continues working to provide cross-trained professionals the chance to serve the Gem City area.

For more information about the Gem City Barbers click here.