Conversations with Tony Gardner

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tony Gardner

Hi Tony, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Being a Barber has been a dream of mine as far back as I can remember. Growing up in a neighborhood where Fatherless Homes are common doesn’t mean that young men should go without being properly groomed. I recall “practicing” on my own hair at a young age and making several mistakes until I got it correct. Once I got comfortable with the clippers, the neighborhood kids became some of my very first clients. I think about how life comes around full circle, because some of those First Clients from my childhood grew up and had sons of their own, whom are now my clients!

Although I’ve always wanted to be a Barber, it took a while for me to appreciate it as a Professional Career. In the beginning it was always a side hustle for me in addition to working a 9 to 5. It was like this from 7th Grade up into my college years. It wasn’t until I met my Wife and she encouraged me to enroll in Barber School and pursue my passion, so I did just that. I left a full time job, found part time work, and attended Barber School, in addition to being a Husband and Father of three!

On top of Barber School being a journey with many complicated obstacles, in the middle of my schooling, the Covid-19 Pandemic caused everything to shut down, which included ALL schools! During the shutdown, many times I felt like my timing was off – like I waited too late to follow my dreams. It sort of felt like a sign to give up and do something else, but I know if I’m truly passionate about something, nothing or no one can do or say anything to make me give up on it. Between that and my Wife & kids encouraging me daily to not give up, I waited for the schools to reopen so I could get back to doing what I love most!

Working in Corporate America made me a ton of money, and I’ve sharpened a lot of customer service related and organizational skills that I use to progress my own business, but being a small business owner is a something I wouldn’t trade for the world. Being in control of my day to day schedule and seeing how kids faces light up after they look into the mirror after I cut their hair is a feeling that can’t be purchased. These are two things that keep me motivated to wake up and do this every morning.

It is the right of every Young Man to be groomed properly.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
True Success NEVER has a smooth road. Between The Pandemic Shutdowns and other obstacles life throws your way, you figure out who who really are, and what you’re capable of when struggles are presented to you.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an Artist that gets to showcase my craft in a Barbershop. I specialize in Young Men’s Grooming, which includes haircuts, beard trims, steam facials, and good conversation. I’m proud of myself because I chose to stick with perfecting my skills being a Barber instead of taking the easy route and not giving up on what I worked hard for. What sets me apart from others is that I prioritize providing a memorable session over giving a perfect haircut. That doesn’t mean my haircuts aren’t fire – I’m just real big on customer experiences. The haircut is merely a bonus!

How do you think about luck?
I try my best to not rely on luck. “Luck” can sometimes cripple you if that’s all you’re waiting on. I prefer to be prepared for WHATEVER comes my way… good or bad. When you do that, you tend to look at “bad luck” as a lesson to learn from, and not just a loss.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://threedstudio.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAomUzqPd9_/?igsh=MWF0YXVrbjY5MDdtYw==