Cody and Arielle Waters are bringing a unique concept to downtown Owensboro with their new business, Mancave for Men Barber Shop. The couple said the upscale barbershop, set to open in March, will combine traditional grooming services with luxury amenities, including bourbon, cigars, and a relaxing atmosphere.
The shop will be located at 234 Frederica Street, Suite 2, directly next to Ruoff Mortgage.
Cody, a barber with two years of experience, said the franchise, which began in 2011 in Boca Raton, Florida, caters to men ages 8 to 80. According to its site, it was founded on the idea of providing an elevated grooming experience for men, filling a niche between basic barbershops and high-end salons.
“There’s nothing like this here,” Cody said. “We wanted to create a space where men can relax, get a haircut, and enjoy the added touches like a bourbon bar and spa services.”
The Mancave concept, which features locations nationwide, offers everything from haircuts and shaves to full luxury spa services, such as facials and manscaping, in an upscale environment. Franchise founder Emad Aovida created the business after noticing a need for high-end grooming options designed specifically for men.
Cody said Mancave shops are known for their distinct aesthetic, blending aged wood trimmings, leather-and-chrome barber chairs, and modern amenities including flat-screen TVs. He added that each customer is greeted with drink options, including beer, wine, and coffee while enjoying the space.
Mancave for Men will offer various grooming options, and each service will include a hot towel and shampoo. The shop will also feature a spa room for facials and other relaxation services.
“It’s more than just a haircut,” Cody said. “We’re offering an experience where men can unwind.”
The barbershop will include five barber chairs on each side of the 1,600-square-foot space, two shampoo stations, and a bourbon-themed bar in the center. Non-alcoholic beverages will also be available.
“Since Kentucky is bourbon country, we’ll focus on a bourbon bar, but we’ll also have beer, wine, and options for those who don’t drink,” Cody said.
The Waters said they chose downtown because of its atmosphere and central location. They believe it’s the perfect spot to attract professionals and visitors alike.
“Owensboro is growing, and downtown has a lot of foot traffic,” Cody said. “We wanted a location that’s convenient for everyone, whether they’re coming from the East End or West End.”
Arielle, who has a decade of experience in the hair industry, will handle the business’s bookkeeping and operations. While the shop is part of a franchise with 24 locations nationwide, the couple emphasized their commitment to hiring local staff.
“We plan to employ 10 local barbers,” Arielle said. “The franchise will assist with marketing, but everything else will remain local.”
The barbershop will offer appointments, walk-ins, and membership packages, allowing customers to pay a flat rate for multiple visits.
“Appointments are great for busy schedules, but we want to be flexible,” Cody said. “Whether you’re walking in or stopping by for a quick drink, we want to make it easy for everyone.”
The Waters hope to open the barbershop in early March, depending on construction progress.
“This is more than a place to get a haircut,” Cody said. “It’s about creating a space where men can relax, hang out, and enjoy some time for themselves.”
