Kitty and Jeff’s journey from a golf course conversation to building a thriving family salon franchise.
In 2009, Kitty and her husband Jeff were ready for a new adventure. What began as a casual conversation during a golf game soon became the foundation of a successful franchise business that would change their lives.
The Conversation That Sparked It All
Kitty recalls the pivotal moment when her husband Jeff was golfing with Leo, the founder of Bishops Cuts/Color, a successful chain of urban salons in Portland. While on the course, Jeff had to take a business call, and Leo casually mentioned, “I’m making money and I’m not answering my phone right now.” That statement planted the seed in Jeff’s mind, leading him to inquire about getting involved with Bishops Cuts/Color. With their backgrounds in real estate and home inspection, Kitty and Jeff saw an exciting opportunity in the family hair care industry.
Turning an Opportunity into a Thriving Franchise
At the time, Bishop’s Cuts/Color was thriving in urban Portland, but Kitty and Jeff believed there was potential in suburban areas for their services. They opened their first location in Raleigh Hills on November 14, 2009, and the success was immediate.
“We opened in November, and by December 2009, we sold $34,000,” Kitty shares. “To be profitable immediately was incredible. We even attracted customers from the downtown locations because people loved having a more convenient option closer to home.”
This early success confirmed their instincts and set the stage for their growing franchise empire.
The Key Factors Behind Their Success
Kitty attributes the success of their franchise to three main factors:
- Strategic Location: “My first location is on a visible commuter street, shares a lot with a busy grocery store, and has driven consistent volume for 15 years. That visibility and accessibility matter tremendously.”
- Building the Right Team and Culture: “We focus on hiring confident, easygoing people who are comfortable in their own skin. The vibe we want is one of a close-knit team, and when everyone clicks, the energy is infectious.”
- Community Connection: “When we started, I was involved in the local elementary school, and I was the PTO president. I understood exactly who our customers were,” Kitty explains. Having a personal connection to the community was instrumental in their success.
How Bishops Became a World-Class Franchise
Kitty is especially excited about how the franchise experience has evolved. After Bishops Cuts/Color joined the Head to Toe beauty vertical under Riverside Company, the business grew in ways Kitty never anticipated.
“The transformation has been remarkable,” Kitty emphasizes. “We now have incredible transparency around performance metrics, access to best practices from top performers, and the tools we need to continuously improve profitability.”
The company has also introduced advanced analytics, leadership support, and practical resources that make it easier for franchisees to succeed.
Expert Advice for Aspiring Franchisees
For anyone considering a Bishops Cuts/Color franchise, Kitty shares a few key lessons that have been integral to their success:
“Focus on volume and efficiency. Keeping the chairs busy is key. With the right location and great service, you can build consistent traffic that supports strong profitability.”
Kitty also advises, “Stay open to learning and growth. The Head to Toe team has incredible experience and proven strategies. When you combine their expertise with your local market knowledge, that’s when the magic happens.”
The Energy and Passion Behind the Business
What keeps Kitty energized and engaged in her business is the vibrant atmosphere she’s created. “I’m often twice the age of my employees, but their enthusiasm and the dynamic energy in our shops keep me feeling young and motivated,” Kitty says.
This sense of energy, combined with strong systems, community connection, and proven locations, makes Bishops Cuts/Color a sustainable business model that continues to thrive.
A Proven Path for Entrepreneurial Success
Kitty’s journey highlights the potential for success within the family hair care market when you have the right support, location, and understanding of your community. “The beauty of this business is that you can adapt the Bishop’s model to your own style and market,” Kitty reflects. “We offer excellent service at prices that work for families. My employees love the culture we’ve built, and our customers keep coming back because they get great value.”
Bishops Cuts/Color offers an exciting opportunity for franchisees, with the right combination of a strong brand, comprehensive support, and growing demand for family hair care services.
Building Your Own Success Story
Kitty’s advice for prospective franchisees is both practical and motivating: “Be open to the process. Listen to successful operators and the support team. Everyone wants you to succeed, and there’s a wealth of knowledge available to help you build something special.”
With the right location, commitment to the brand culture, and a deep understanding of your community, Bishops Cuts/Color offer a path to financial success and personal fulfillment.
Bishops Cuts/Color currently has franchise opportunities available in select markets. The brand specializes in providing quality haircuts and styling services for the entire family at reasonable prices, combining expert techniques with a contemporary, energetic atmosphere that keeps customers coming back. For more information, visit their website.
