Kennedy's All-American Barber Club makes old-school new again

That was until cheap, quick-service unisex salons took over cities and towns across the United States, promising a 10-minute, no-frill, get-in, get-on-your-way haircut. Over time, the idea of the old barbershop became just that—a quaint and timeworn image of a simpler, less hectic time best suited for a Norman Rockwell painting.

But as businesses like Kennedy’s All-American Barber Club begin to stake their claim with red, white and blue barber poles, classic straight razor shaves and old-boy camaraderie throughout towns both big and small, those days of longing are long gone—a new wave of franchisees are bringing back that same kind of wholesome barbershop nostalgia not seen for decades.

Jarrod Manfro always yearned for the time when barbershops were more than just places to get a haircut. Eager to capture that same familiarity he grew up with, he left behind his high-stress bank job on Wall Street to instead bring the Kennedy’s experience to Connecticut. For Manfro, the brand’s appeal was immediate—their concept of quality, new-school haircuts in a traditional, old-fashioned setting was unique.

His trust in Kennedy’s has taken him a long way, and today, Manfro has been with the brand for nearly seven years. He currently owns two locations in Westport and Ridgefield.

“I was looking to get into small business when I discovered Kennedy’s at a convention in Washington, D.C. It was unlike anything there,” he said. “The concept of a high-end men’s grooming facility, reminiscent of old-school barbershops only with modern amenities, is something men are looking for. The membership model was the icing on the cake—I wanted to be a part of Kennedy’s.”

Kennedy’s takes their nod to the barbershops of yore even further by introducing a membership element. For regular clients, becoming a member comes with irresistible perks—unlimited monthly haircuts, signature straight razor shaves, high-end grooming products and many more indulgent add-ons. With seven different levels of membership to choose from, clients can customize their visit with everything from beard and mustache trims to manicures and facials.

According to Jay Hummer, Kennedy’s CEO, coming to their barbershop is more than just a haircut—the experience begins the moment a customer walks in the door.

“The brand was created with a membership plan in mind because it creates a community of like-minded people who might not otherwise have a go-to place. Members can come in and shoot pool or drink a beer—this is an experience for someone who wants to treat themselves to a relaxing environment,” he said.

By offering a high-quality grooming experience, each person who visits Kennedy’s can also relax by knowing that they’re in good hands. The brand’s stylists are all heavily vetted with intensive training, developing and testing prior to working the floor. According to Manfro, the brand’s reputation is so widely respected, stylists are eager to work at his locations.

“A lot of people want to work here. Our clients are top-notch and it’s a great environment,” he said. “Quite frankly, we’re very particular and we only hire the best. We’re a step up in regard to customer service, and even though Kennedy’s sells some really high-quality products, our staff—that’s the real product.”

With seven years now under his belt and many more on the way, Manfro still confidently asserts that joining the Kennedy’s team was one of the best decisions he’s made. Ultimately, it’s watching his regular members establish a rapport with one another that truly makes his job unparalleled.

“The best part about this business is the clientele,” Manfro said. “Guys come here to enjoy themselves, to relax. It’s an escape from the daily grind, but it’s also a place where bonding and networking happens. It’s great to watch careers develop before my eyes.”