Pigtails & Crewcuts

As&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=celebrating-20-years-of-growth-michelle-hollimans-impact-on-pigtails-crewcuts-2728598" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>, the 80-plus unit kids salon that aims to make haircuts enjoyable for everyone involved, marks its 20th anniversary, one name stands out as a driving force behind the brand’s transformation:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-holliman-2132313/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=celebrating-20-years-of-growth-michelle-hollimans-impact-on-pigtails-crewcuts-2728598" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Michelle Holliman</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development. This year, Holliman is also celebrating her 20th anniversary with the company, a tenure that has been instrumental in shaping the franchise into what it is today.<h2>From Receptionist to Franchise Leader</h2>Holliman began her journey in the franchising world as a receptionist before moving into franchise development roles. Holliman began her franchising career at Heavenly Ham, working alongside&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wade-brannon-a1553418/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=celebrating-20-years-of-growth-michelle-hollimans-impact-on-pigtails-crewcuts-2728598" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Wade Brannon</a> (who is now the CEO of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>). When the company was acquired, she shifted to work in development roles at brands like Moe’s Southwest Grill and Planet Smoothie. Then, when Brannon acquired Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts in 2005, the two reunited to begin building the franchise program from scratch.“I started in February 2005, and the first year was all about laying the groundwork — getting the FDD [Franchise Disclosure Document] ready, building the operations manual, establishing vendor relationships and learning how to franchise the concept,” Holliman said. “But by the end of the year, we had awarded our first franchise and began setting the stage for national expansion.”<h2>Growing a Franchise Through Economic Shifts</h2>Over the past two decades, Holliman has guided the brand through economic shifts, industry changes and even a global pandemic. In 2008, when the financial crisis slowed franchise growth, she and the leadership team shifted focus to strengthening operations, supporting franchisees and refining unit economics.“Our job is to support our franchise owners and help them succeed,” Holliman said. “During the recession, we knew new franchise sales would be tough, so we concentrated on helping our existing owners thrive. That dedication to franchisee success has been a cornerstone of our growth.”The pandemic brought another major pivot. For years, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts operated as a walk-in-only business, believing that parents with young children needed the flexibility of unscheduled visits. However, COVID-19 necessitated a switch to appointment-based service — a change that ultimately improved labor efficiency and customer experience.&nbsp;“It was a shift in mindset, but one that benefited both our franchisees and customers,” Holliman said. “Over 20 years, maintaining this flexibility and open-mindedness throughout the system has been incredibly beneficial.”<h2>Building a Culture of Innovation and Support</h2>Another key part of Holliman’s leadership has been fostering a culture of collaboration between the franchise headquarters and franchise owners. Many of the brand’s innovations, including operational efficiencies and new customer service initiatives, have come directly from franchisee feedback.“We welcome ideas from our franchise owners. They’re on the front lines every day, and their insights help us evolve,” Holliman said. “Being flexible and open-minded in collaboration with our owners has allowed us to grow while staying true to our core values.”<h2>The Future of Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</h2>Holliman is especially proud of Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts’ role as an inclusive, family-friendly space. The brand has made great strides in serving children with sensory sensitivities, providing a welcoming environment for all families.“As awareness around sensory-friendly experiences grows, we’re continuing to train our franchisees and stylists to better serve kids with autism, OCD or other sensitivities,” Holliman said. “It’s about making every child feel comfortable and making haircuts a positive experience.”Holliman shared a favorite memory from her 20 years with the brand, recollecting how a Tennessee owner created a safe, welcoming environment for a child’s first haircut.“A mom came to the Tennessee location expressing that she’d like to get her son’s hair cut, but he wasn’t ready. He had autism and needed to get comfortable in the environment first, and the owner welcomed them to visit weekly and allow the little boy to look around,” Holliman said. “Every week, he would come in to familiarize himself with the environment. The hairstylists would show him the clippers and explain what they sounded and felt like. His mom would ask if he was ready, he’d say ‘No,’ and they’d come back the following week.“One week, he came in and was speaking to the stylists, saying ‘Hi’ and asking how they were. Then he jumped up into a chair and told his mom, ‘I’m ready to get a haircut!’ The franchise owner was crying, the stylists were crying, mom was crying … And this sweet little boy was just excited for his haircut.”The commitment of the entire system — from the corporate team to stylists to kids feeling accepted and having great haircut experiences at Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts — is what makes the brand so special, and its ongoing commitment to this culture will continue to drive its success for years to come.Looking ahead, Holliman sees continued growth for Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts. With a strong foundation, a dedicated franchisee network and a focus on innovation, the brand is poised to expand further while staying true to its mission of providing a fun, stress-free haircut experience for kids.After 20 years, Holliman remains passionate about helping franchisees achieve success. Her deep knowledge of franchising, combined with her commitment to support and innovation, has helped shape Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts into the strong brand it is today.“It’s not just about haircuts — it’s about the experience we create for families and the opportunities we provide for franchisees,” she said. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please&nbsp;<a href="http://visit1851franchise.com/pigtailsandcrewcuts?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=celebrating-20-years-of-growth-michelle-hollimans-impact-on-pigtails-crewcuts-2728598" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">visit1851franchise.com/pigtailsandcrewcuts</a>.&nbsp;

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Celebrating 20 Years: Michelle Holliman’s Impact on Pigtails & Crewcuts’ Franchise Growth

1851 Franchise

Michelle Holliman, who joined the brand just as it began developing its franchise system, reflects on two decades of evolution and success and shares excitement for the future of the brand.

This brand page has been paid for by PIGTAILS & CREWCUTS. Content within this page that is paid will showcase a Sponsored icon. This means the brand has engaged 1851 FRANCHISE to write the content. Content without the Sponsored Icon is aggregated media placements the brand earned. Questions can be sent to editorial@1851franchise.com

Celebrating 20 Years of Growth: Michelle Holliman’s Impact on Pigtails & Crewcuts

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ATLANTA, Ga.&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>, the kids’ salon franchise known for melding community connection with a proven business model, is closing out 2025 with strong momentum and an optimistic approach to the year ahead.&nbsp;“We grew double digits year over year, so I’m pleased with the unit economics for the brand as a whole," said Vice President of Franchise Development&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-holliman-2132313/">Michelle Holliman</a>. "We also celebrated our 20th anniversary this year. Everyone is excited about where we’re going and what we’ve accomplished. The franchisees understand that we’re in this with them and that we will continue to support them.”Strong systemwide performance, continued franchisee engagement and a growing developmental pipeline have positioned the brand for a confident step into 2026. As 2025 wraps up,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> is operating 86 salons in 26 states. Five more locations are expected to open early in 2026, a sign of growth and sustained franchisee interest. Beyond expansion, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts continues to deepen its involvement locally.“Giving back is one of our core values,” Holliman said. “We have a very close-knit franchise community. They talk daily, share ideas and experiences and get their staff involved. It brings hourly employees together as a unit.”Looking ahead to 2026, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is preparing to launch several key initiatives designed to support franchise owners while strengthening system operations. These include Pigtails University, a new training platform, along with improved marketing strategies tied to the brand’s point-of-sale system and continued refinements to its appointment-based model.&nbsp;In terms of further development, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts expects to award 12 to 15 new franchises next year, placing an emphasis on owners properly aligned with the chain’s values.&nbsp;“It’s not just about numbers. We want the right people who match our brand and core values. If we reach 100 units next year, that’s fantastic. But the people matter most,” Holliman said. “We’re always evolving and trying to be innovative. Franchisees are already bringing new ideas to the table. And that openness and flexibility is what makes us different.”As families continue to seek brands with a purpose worthy of their trust, Holliman believes Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is well-positioned for success in the long-term. Thanks to their strong fundamental values, engaged franchise owners and a proactive roadmap for the year ahead, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts enters 2026 focused on growth that’s not just meaningful but sustainable.“Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts has proven to be a recession-resistant brand, based on unit economics, community outreach and franchisees growing internally with additional units,” she said. “The model is proven. And we’re continuing to make it better.”About Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts&nbsp;Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is a kids' hair salon franchise designed with family in mind. Franchising since 2005, it has become a premier destination for children’s hairstyling and a stress-free experience for parents. Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts provides a range of hair care services for boys and girls aged zero to 12, and offers a custom line of child-friendly hair products, hair accessories, toys and gifts. Each salon is a fun, engaging space where children can feel comfortable and enjoy their haircuts, complete with activities, event areas and a family-friendly atmosphere. With over 80 locations across more than 20 states, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is continuously expanding and establishing itself as a leading franchise in the growing niche market of children’s hair care. To learn more about Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts or to find a salon near you, please visit www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com">www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com</a>.

Pigtails & Crewcuts, kids haircuts, kids hair salon

 A Year of Expansion, Heart and Momentum: Pigtails & Crewcuts Looks Ahead to an Even Brighter 2026

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Franchise QB Podcast: CEO Wade Brannon Shares How Pigtails & Crewcuts Is Growing in the Kids’ Salon Market

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<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>, a kids’ hair salon franchise built around a premium, family-friendly experience, now has its eye on St. Louis, Missouri. The brand already operates in other Midwestern markets, but Missouri remains wide open, giving local entrepreneurs a chance to establish and grow the concept in a largely untapped area.“We have a number of hot target markets for brand expansion. And we believe St. Louis is a viable market because of its affluent areas and its untapped potential,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> Vice President of Franchise Development&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-holliman-2132313/">Michelle Holliman</a>. “Right now, I believe three to five locations in St. Louis is realistic based on research in competitive markets. Being first to market can be intimidating, but it also allows for multi-unit growth.”&nbsp;<h3>Targeting the Right Neighborhoods</h3>Providing strong support of franchise owners remains a Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts hallmark. The chain works at the local level to properly analyze and understand the market and the dynamics in play prior to launch. A data-driven approach drives site selection, with elements like income and the concentration of kids within about a 15-minute radius helping guide the process.&nbsp;When it comes to St. Louis, that data illustrates a market primed for both opportunity and future growth, ensuring new locations are well-positioned for success.“We collaborate closely with our franchise owners and take their local insight into account,” Holliman said. “Our goal is to place salons in areas that value the full experience we provide and can support a premium brand.”<h3>The Right Franchise Owner</h3>When it comes to potential franchise owners, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts targets those who are in alignment with the company’s values and who can operate within a proven, dependable system. Support for new franchisees is extensive. And hair care experience isn’t necessarily required to run a Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts franchise.“We look for owners who are coachable, community-minded, and ready to follow a system that works,” Holliman said. “They don’t need prior hair industry experience. Our owners come from a wide range of professional backgrounds, and we focus on leveraging their strengths.Support begins early in the process and continues well beyond opening day, with assistance ranging from demographic research and site selection to lease negotiations and operational training.<h3>Community Engagement = Success</h3>Community involvement has been a Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts cornerstone for over 20 years. While the business can be run in a semi-absentee fashion, dedicated ownership at the local level is important. Franchise owners who are active in local schools, philanthropic efforts or other community projects develop strong bonds at the local level, strengthening brand awareness.&nbsp;“We want owners to give back. Being involved locally generates awareness and supports the brand,” Holliman said. “We provide training on community engagement during initial and ongoing training. Community involvement is crucial.”<h3>Vision for Expansion</h3>While St. Louis presents promising immediate opportunity, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is looking ahead to an even bigger 2026.&nbsp;With 86 salons currently in operation in 25 states, the plan is to add even more. By conducting a thorough assessment of each market and working closely with franchise owners, the chain remains poised for continued growth, equipping local franchise owners with a strong system tweaked over the course of more than two decades and unparalleled support.“We emphasize franchise support — which is why we currently have 86 salons. Our goal for next year is 12 to 15 new locations. We grow at a pace that ensures we can support our franchisees,” Holliman said. “We have about a dozen salons in development and are aiming to reach 100 locations. Once we hit that milestone, we validate the brand and concept, moving beyond the emerging brand stage.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts">https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts</a>.

Pigtails & Crewcuts kids salon, St. Louis, Missouri expansion

Pigtails & Crewcuts Targets St. Louis for Growth, Seeking Family-Focused Entrepreneurs To Lead Expansion

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When people talk about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>, the children’s hair salon franchise, they usually start with the colorful environment or the kid-friendly experience. But behind the brand is something deeper — a culture built on kindness, service and genuine connection. For franchise owners like North Carolina-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/angel-putnam-4521342b/">Angel Putnam</a>, that culture isn’t an add-on. It’s the heart of the business."I donate close to 10 percent of my sales back into our community, with a special focus on supporting foster children and families," Putnam said. "Having grown up in foster care myself, I understand firsthand the challenges these children face, and giving back to them is deeply personal to me. My goal is to make their lives a little easier through school supply donations, clothing and food drives, toy collections, and other efforts that provide comfort, dignity and joy."<h2>Turning Personal Story Into Purpose</h2>Putnam says the salon gave her a platform to channel her own childhood experiences into something powerful and uplifting. "It’s my way of turning my story into purpose and using my business as a bridge for kindness and community support," she said.The results of that purpose show up in dozens of small but meaningful moments — the handwritten letters from families, the hugs at community events, the gratitude expressed by foster parents who feel seen and supported."Each one reminds me that what we do goes far beyond haircuts. It’s about the ripple of kindness and connection we get to be a part of," she said.&nbsp;<h2>A Culture Strengthened by Community</h2>For&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-holliman-2132313/">Michelle Holliman</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development, franchisees like Putnam represent the very best of what&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> is meant to be."Being a part of and giving back to your community is one of our core values," she said. "We believe that owning a business isn't just about providing a service for your community. It's really being a part of your community. And that’s what we want our franchisees to embrace."Holliman says the brand tends to draw owners who want to do more than run a business. They see their salons as safe, welcoming spaces for every child, including those with sensory challenges or special needs. In her view, Putnam’s story is a clear example of that mindset in action."She gives back to her community because she understands what foster care children have to go through and the importance of feeling wanted and needed and finding a safe space," Holliman said.Holliman says that Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts encourages community involvement but doesn’t prescribe how franchisees should serve. As a result, owners often go above and beyond in creative and heartfelt ways. She pointed to examples like franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/adelaide-aiken-msw-lcsw-bb90a466/">Adelaide Aiken</a> in Asheville, North Carolina, who turned her salon into a drop-off center after a hurricane left the city struggling for clean water.“They weren’t trying to provide haircuts,” Holliman said. “They were trying to provide supplies and comfort in their community. And because of that, the community supported them right back.”<h2>Purpose First, Profit Follows</h2>Putnam believes that weaving purpose into her business isn’t just meaningful — it’s smart, sustainable entrepreneurship."When I opened Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts, profit wasn’t my motivation — purpose was," she said. "Of course, understanding your numbers and budgeting wisely are essential parts of running a business, but true success goes far deeper than profit margins. When you pour into your community, your community pours back into you."&nbsp;That philosophy mirrors Holliman’s perspective on long-term success across the brand."It's something bigger than making money," Holliman said. "It's being a part of something. People want to leave a little bit of legacy whether it is showing kindness to the community or showing kindness to a specific family. Being compassionate about that family that has a child with special needs, being compassionate about somebody that can't afford a haircut, just understanding the needs and giving back."&nbsp;<h2>Leading With Love — One Child at a Time</h2>Putnam hopes her approach shows future franchisees that Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is more than a business model. It’s an opportunity to make a lasting, meaningful impact."I know I can’t change the entire world, but within my three feet of space, I can create a ripple of love, kindness and inclusion that reaches far beyond me. Using my business as a platform for good allows me to lead by example — for my children, my team, and my community — and to always love the way we’d want to be loved," she said.&nbsp;For Putnam — and for many Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts owners — the work goes far beyond haircuts. Their businesses have become a natural place to show up for their neighbors and care for the families who walk through the door.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/pigtailsandcrewcuts">1851franchise.com/pigtailsandcrewcuts</a>.&nbsp;

How Pigtails & Crewcuts Franchisees Like Angel Putnam Are Making a Difference Beyond the Salon

The Heart of the Brand: How Pigtails & Crewcuts Franchisees Like Angel Putnam Are Making a Difference Beyond the Salon

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When the government shutdown began and it became clear that many families’ income and benefits would be impacted, kids salon franchise&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> launched a community effort to offer support. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pigtailsandcrewcutswillowlawn/posts/pfbid0UKRPKSrc1S7L2LkCJtaTt2zZ32zTRfxdM1kL5PafmdouwjaHWrXhc4iHCTz4a7Axl">Open Chair Project</a>, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> in&nbsp;<a href="https://book.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/200907/home">Newport News</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://book.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/200906/home">Richmond</a>, Virginia, allowed members of the community to purchase vouchers that other families can claim and use to receive a haircut at no cost to them.“The concept is simple but powerful,”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-lugaro-406270283">Amy Lugaro</a> — who owns both salons —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/community-donates-haircuts-through-pigtails-crewcuts-during-government-shutdown/">said in a press release</a>. “Our team, customers and fellow community members donate the cost of a child’s haircut in advance, creating ‘open chairs’ in our salon for families in need. When a parent calls to book or checks out for their appointment, they can simply let us know they’d like to use a donated haircut voucher if one is available. We hang available donated vouchers in our storefront window for anyone to see and use. No questions, no paperwork, no judgment. Just kindness and care.”As small business owners, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts franchisees become key members of their communities. Through their businesses, franchisees have greater reach and exposure, and they’re positioned to rally their communities around causes that matter to them, exemplifying what it means to be a truly locally owned business.“For me personally, this project represents the best of what community looks like,” Lugaro said.Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/community-donates-haircuts-through-pigtails-crewcuts-during-government-shutdown/">here</a>.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts">https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts</a>.

Photo of Pigtails & Crewcuts window with Open Chair Project vouchers hanging up

Celebrating 20 Years of Growth: Michelle Holliman’s Impact on Pigtails & Crewcuts

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