How it Began

Johnnie Ray emerged from a life-changing experience I had at a barber shop in Toledo, Ohio (shout out to Moe at La'Moda!) I walked in with a literal foot-long beard and had little to no idea of the basics of beard care or how to properly manage it. I was six months into being a new dad in the middle of a global pandemic and I was worn out, exhausted, and quite frankly just not feeling my best self. 

Walking into a real barber shop for the first time was something I'll never forget. This was exactly the self-care I was looking for and more importantly, a connecting and uplifting experience where men supported other men through proper grooming practice, unashamed and without ego - only positivity and love. 

Not only did I walk out of the shop that day with a fresh fade and a well-nourished, trimmed, and well-groomed beard, but I left with a renewed sense of self, empowerment, and passion for a transformative experience. To this day, I'm aiming to provide that same experience for other men through quality products, knowledge of grooming and facial hair maintenance, and a community of support and love for all.