ORANGE PARK – Chad Eagan was concerned when he broke away from the safety and financial security of working for an owner of one of the most successful salons.
But deep down, he decided to invest in the only thing guaranteed to payoff – himself.
He opened Chad’s Beauty Bar at 1801 Wells Road, and he quickly learned success travels well.
“Anytime you make a change, it’s always scary,” he said in between a steady flow of regulars who also made the move with him. "But I knew it was the right move, and I knew it would work out. I just had faith and put one foot in front of the other, and it took off running.”
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ORANGE PARK – Chad Eagan was concerned when he broke away from the safety and financial security of working for an owner of one of the most successful salons.
But deep down, he decided to invest in the only thing guaranteed to payoff – himself.
He opened Chad’s Beauty Bar at 1801 Wells Road, and he quickly learned success travels well.
“Anytime you make a change, it’s always scary,” he said in between a steady flow of regulars who also made the move with him. "But I knew it was the right move, and I knew it would work out. I just had faith and put one foot in front of the other, and it took off running.”
His original plan was to keep working as long as he could until a location opened in Oakleaf in October. But things changed quickly when the spot on Wells Road became available. Chad’s Beauty Bar opened on June 24.
“I was only down for four days,” he said. “I couldn’t wait for October.”
Neither could his customers. His regulars also made the move to his location. Many of his customers have been with him for years, reassuring the notion stylists have a committed and loyal clienteles list.
His motto is “where luxury meets confidence.” His shop is so popular, his Facebook page is already accepting reservations for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
“I do hair. I do everything – all textures, all types, men, women, kids. I do men's hair pieces. I do Brazilian blowouts. I pretty much do everything.”
He also offers snacks and drinks to make each session more relaxing.
Chad put aside his singing career to keep pace with his salon demands. He finished second in the 2023 Jax Idol contest. He’s also released two singles – “Ain’t No App for That” and “If It Don’t Twang.”
“[Music’s] been kind of on hold,” Chad said. “I haven't really been doing much lately with that. I'm focusing on the business and getting everything up and going, and family, and all the things.”
His brief concerns have been replaced by unparalleled demands. His appointment book is filled; and his anxiety was erased by the never-ending need to have hair styled, cut and colored.
“I stay really busy,” he said. “But it’s everything I wanted.”
