Open for business
I’ve been lucky to visit different cities and witness their entrepreneurial ecosystems, which is a fancy way of saying I’ve met a lot of business owners.
No matter where I go- whether it be in the U.S. or abroad, the best entrepreneurs are the ones who are passionate about the communities they operate in. Running a business is challenging; running a business and going above and beyond for your community is even harder.
Joe Abeyta is the owner of EDo’s barbershop, located at 521 Central Ave NE, in the up-and-coming neighborhood of East Downtown, Albuquerque.
A graduate of UNM, Joe’s been in business since June of 2019 in his current spot. The entrance is shaded by large trees, and the window looks like a Barber’s should, with a cheery green LED light calling out, “OPEN”.
“There is power in a haircut,” said Joe. “When people that have had things hard get some kindness and then see how good they look, it changes their whole attitude in a great way. They usually tell me they can’t afford to pay me, but that’s not why I do it.”
Power in a Haircut
When you enter, several things happen quickly. First, the welcome wagon comes to greet you (see below), and then you see they are taking safety seriously at EDo’s. There is a plastic divider between the seats, and the Barbers wear masks.
The Welcome Wagon
As you get comfortable, it hits you- there is Art. Everywhere.
“We’re sort of a hybrid Barbershop/Art Gallery,” said Joe. “The works on the wall are all by local artists, and they are for sale. Before the pandemic, we started doing Art pop ups every other month, and I’m eager to get back to it.”
There’s great local artwork for sale
He looked toward the front windows and added hopefully, “When we get back to doing them, we can get tables on the sidewalks and be more inviting to the community as we support local Artists.”
It’s the rare combination of Barber, Art Gallery, and an entrepreneur that loves his city and his community.
“I’m a young guy,” said Joe. “I absolutely love the way the neighborhood and city have supported me- I get to network with other business owners, and I have the most amazing conversations with people. Talking to you right now is an example.” (Thanks, Joe!)
Taking safety seriously
He doesn’t just talk the talk, he walks the walk. As he shared in an interview with, “What’s Up ABQ,” he has offered haircuts to people living on the streets. “There is power in a haircut,” said Joe. “When people that have had things hard get some kindness and then see how good they look, it changes their whole attitude in a great way. They usually tell me they can’t afford to pay me, but that’s not why I do it,” he went on.
EDo’s is open and you can make reservations through their Instagram page.