Another new business is coming to Niverville, and this one is something a little bit unique. Cru Barber & Co. is a barbershop with a twist—a liquor license.
Jacqueline “Z” Petkau and Mitch McLeod grew up in Manitoba and met a few years ago when they were both living in Winnipeg. The pair dreamt about opening a business together, and about a year ago, after they moved to Niverville, they realized this was where they wanted to stay.
After some soul-searching, they decided it was time to pursue their dream.
McLeod had received his cosmetology diploma and then completed his required apprenticeship hours to become Red Seal certified in his trade. Petkau had helped launch start-ups and new businesses in a number of sectors, including health and wellness, development consulting, and the beauty industry.
“With my business background and [McLeod’s] expertise in the trade, it seemed almost a no-brainer for us to open something that we can grow together while taking on roles that play to both of our strengths,” Petkau says.
Cru Barber & Co. will offer a full menu of quality men’s grooming services and their own line of hair products in a communal lounge setting at 3-40 Drovers Run. They plan to hire three to four part-time or full-time barbers and open in mid-June.
“We help our clients be more themselves, a side effect that comes with looking and feeling your best,” she adds. “By understanding things like lifestyle and maintenance commitment, we make sure our clients not only leave happy with a quality cut, but also have the right products, tools, and techniques to recreate their hairstyle at home and carry that fresh-from-the-barbershop confidence boost right on until their next appointment.”
But Cru Barber & Co. also offers a twist: a lounge atmosphere.
“We invite our clients to come early to their appointments and stay late, whether to enjoy a beer or scotch in our lounge and take in the day’s game on our big screen, or just for a quick game of pool to catch up with a friend,” Petkau adds.
As residents of Niverville, she says they see this as an opportunity to help the community keep growing.
“We have a vested interest in helping the area continue to grow in a vibrant way, and we can’t wait to connect with you all.”
