The Grind: Small Business Spotlights with Warren Cutz

Barbers are hidden gems with a one of a kind entrepreneur mindset that continues to thrive in business across the nation. But when examining barbers within the millennial generation, there’s a different asset that can be identified. Not only are they driven to build upon their current skills and assets, but these millennials gradually move forward into newer depths with diligence and passion above all.

Sweeney Taud Studioz has been in business since 2014 within the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago. Ran by owner Warren Cutz, the atmosphere of this barbershop inhabits deeply of a “young, cool, hip place to just come hang out”, as stated by Cutz. Designed with such a relaxing interior tone – flat screen television, pool table, art canvases, and coy fish swimming peacefully around the aquarium rock decor – Sweeney Taud Studioz reminded me so much of a space to just simply kick back and momentarily escape from it all. Keeping the urban vibe alive, reputable clients who’ve Warren barbered includes Grammy award winner Rhymefest, R&B sensation Raheem DeVaughn, actor Rick Gonzalez (Coach Carter, Roll Bounce), and other local celebrities in Chicago.

CL: Can you give me some background on Sweeney Taud Studioz? What motivated you to start your business?

Warren: “I’ve always had a vision of an exclusive place where you can go get fresh…I wanted to have a place where people can come a little later than the average business to get a haircut. I wanted to go after a certain type of clientele within Chicago for a good networking atmosphere for myself and my clients.”

CL: How do you like the (Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago) area in terms of location space for your business?

Warren: “I like the area…it is my second choice of where I want to be. [A loft] was not necessarily always what I wanted to do, but I thought it would be a good stepping stone and opportunity to put my team together…whatever mistakes I make, I’d rather make them here because it’s just a little less expensive than opening a storefront. This area in general is just centrally located….it’s easier to get to wherever you come from.”

CL: As a barber of your own studio, what inspires you?

Warren: “I’ve always had an interest in any creative art…with barbering I like the feeling I get more so than from drawing or graphic design [other hobbies of his]. I like the service aspect of it…making people feel good. (You know like the saying, ‘Look good, Feel good’.) [Barbershops] are kind of under appreciated…you can’t do anything without a haircut. I love being a part of everyone’s life.”