Pigtails & Crewcuts

After a career in tech and data analytics,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillerydsimmons?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=hillery-simmons-pigtails-crewcuts-chicago-franchise-2730200" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Hillery Simmons</a> began to ask herself what was next. AI was reshaping her industry and the long hours were starting to lose their appeal. She still wanted to work — just differently. Franchising offered a new path, one that could give her ownership and a chance to make a tangible difference in her community. With&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=hillery-simmons-pigtails-crewcuts-chicago-franchise-2730200" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>, she found a mission-driven brand that aligned with her goals, fit into her lifestyle, and inspired her to imagine a future filled with color, growth and purpose.1851 spoke with Simmons to learn more about her path, what drew her to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> and her plans for the future.&nbsp;1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Hillery Simmons: I grew up in St. Louis, and my parents are both from the Chicago area. When I eventually moved to Chicago, it just felt like home. The Midwest has its own culture, and I feel really rooted here.1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Simmons:&nbsp;In the course of my career, I’ve been in data analytics, mostly in the tech and digital user interface space. I like my job — it’s interesting — but AI is really changing the world. And I'm getting older. Tech is famous for ageism, and I started asking myself, “What's next?”I still feel ambitious. I get frustrated when I don't have opportunities to grow. I was feeling stuck and wanted something that would make me feel like I had ownership and a stake in something. I also wanted a future path that didn’t require working 40 or 50 hours a week.1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know now that you're in it?Simmons:&nbsp;I started looking at franchising specifically with a semi-absentee model in mind so I could continue working while building something new. I still wanted the support and stability of my job, but I wanted to own a business I understood.Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts checked all the boxes. It fills an unmet need in the community. I’m divorced and don’t have kids, so one of my questions was, “Can I do this without a spouse, without children around me?” I don’t know what it’s like to take a child to get a haircut. But when I talked to a lot of other franchise owners, that really encouraged me. I was able to understand the dynamics, and it helped me feel confident I could do this.I also loved that it came with a built-in community. Both the headquarters and other franchisees made me feel like I wouldn’t be doing this alone.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about the company?Simmons:&nbsp;When you're looking into franchising, price point really matters. I wouldn’t be doing this if I didn’t think I could pull it off — but it's still scary because it’s new. Even though there’s a storefront and real estate component, the investment level was something I could manage.Another thing I thought about was lifestyle. I work from home and don’t currently have a car, so I loved the idea of something I could build near where I live. You can do this in the middle of the city, and it felt like it would really fit into my life. That mattered a lot to me.1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?Simmons:&nbsp;Ideally, I’d love to open five salons. The team has been really great in being flexible and helping me plan around those goals.Eventually, I’d also love to explore the possibility of opening a location in St. Louis.1851: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?Simmons:&nbsp;One of the things that really solidified my decision was tied to something I already do. I often donate to foster care organizations in the Chicago area around the holidays. It occurred to me — what if I could offer haircuts to foster kids? That felt really good. It helped with the sense that I don’t have kids of my own, but I could still create something meaningful. That was the final piece that clicked into place.1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Simmons:&nbsp;When I started talking to a franchise consultant, I didn’t think it was the right time. But I knew I’d feel better if I was moving toward a goal — it didn’t have to be fast. Sometimes, you just have to jump in and trust the professionals.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/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=hillery-simmons-pigtails-crewcuts-chicago-franchise-2730200" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com</a>.

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Hillery Simmons: From Tech to Three Pigtails & Crewcuts Franchises in Chicago

1851 Franchise

Feeling stuck in a shifting tech landscape, Hillery Simmons turned to franchising as a pathway to growth, ownership and community impact.

Tech Leader Signs 3-Unit Deal To Build a New Legacy With Pigtails & Crewcuts Franchise in Chicago

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Pigtails & Crewcuts Signs 3-Unit Deal in Chicago, Builds on Strong Q3 Growth

Why Franchisees Are All In: Pigtails & Crewcuts National Convention Spotlights a Business That Builds More Than Just Revenue

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

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<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-talal/">Kelly Talal</a> spent nearly 15 years building brands and guiding marketing strategy for major companies like Burger King, Honda, and United Airlines. But after relocating to the Atlanta area and becoming a mom of two young daughters, she and her husband began thinking differently about the future and what long-term ownership could look like outside the corporate world.That search resulted in the purchase of a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> salon in&nbsp;<a href="https://pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/marietta-west-cobb/">Marietta-West Cobb</a> in 2025. A few months later, two more opportunities followed in&nbsp;<a href="https://pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/roswell-ga/">Roswell</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://book.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/102610/home">Woodstock</a>. She now owns and operates three salons across metro Atlanta.Talal’s professional background is in advertising and brand strategy, helping companies allocate media budgets and reach their target consumers more effectively. While she loved her career, she knew she also wanted to build something of her own.“I really wanted to do something on my own,” Talal said. “And with two small kids, I knew that I wanted it to be in the children’s space.”<h2>Discovering the Right Fit With Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</h2>Talal and her husband first learned about an available&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> salon while researching ownership opportunities in the Atlanta area and decided to meet with the seller to better understand the business and day-to-day operations.&nbsp;Meeting the previous owner and touring the salon confirmed that the business aligned with what she and her husband were looking for, reinforcing their confidence that the location was the right fit.As she evaluated the concept, Talal also began to see how closely the brand’s values aligned with the kind of environment she wanted to create for families.“It’s very inclusive to everyone,” she said. “We have a sensory safe room where kids who have sensory needs can escape to if the main salon floor is a bit too busy. I also think it’s really wholesome. It just preserves kids’ innocence.”<h2>Growing From One Location to Three</h2>After purchasing the first salon, Talal began connecting with other franchisees in the system. When another local owner decided to exit the business due to a job opportunity elsewhere, Talal saw a chance to grow.“We were approached by another owner in this area who knew that we were looking to grow our footprint,” she said. “We went and checked out his salons and all of the relevant financials and decided it was a good decision for us.”Notably, Talal still maintains her corporate advertising role, something she credits to strong teams and a brand model that supports flexible ownership. She also points to hands-on franchise support as a key factor in her decision to scale.“I get text messages and phone calls from my franchise support specialist, just checking in to see how we’re doing. I feel like we’ve been partners in this,” she said.<h2>How Talal Is Increasing Sales</h2>Since acquiring the additional salons in June and July, Talal has focused on making practical operational changes designed to increase accessibility, consistency, and confidence across her teams. She adjusted salon hours so locations that were previously closed on Sundays are now open, after recognizing that nearby competitors were capturing that demand. She also eliminated lunch-hour closures by staggering staff breaks, keeping salons open throughout the day.Training has become another major priority. Talal has implemented CPR training, sensory training, ear-piercing training, and continuing education to ensure staff members feel confident handling a wide range of services. She is also working to cross-train stylists on front-desk operations and the point-of-sale system so locations can operate efficiently even when a dedicated receptionist is not scheduled.Inside the salons, Talal has expanded retail offerings, which has improved the guest experience and driven incremental revenue. She has also leaned into fun, community-oriented events, such as hosting Santa in the salon during the holidays and running seasonal retail promotions to create a more magical experience for families.“I love putting retail in the salon,” Talal said. “Really beefing up our product and retail selection has helped a lot.”<h2>Building Community&nbsp;</h2>Talal wants to lean further into local partnerships and community outreach as she grows. Her salons already work with nearby schools, but she sees room to deepen those relationships and team up with other neighborhood businesses as the three locations become more consistent in their operations.On a personal level, Talal says the business has become a true family affair. Her daughters love spending time in the salons and even play “salon” at home. One of her 4-year-olds recently asked for a vanity for Christmas, then set it up with a notebook, brush, and toy safe.“She turned around and said, ‘Look, mommy, I have my own salon now, too,’” Talal said.What once felt like adding another responsibility has evolved into something that brings her family closer together.“For a long time, I thought I was putting one more thing on my plate,” she said. “But it has really become like a family affair now. They come in with me, and retail the stores and chat with the women. The girls love it.”As Talal continues to grow her Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts footprint across metro Atlanta, she is creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where kids feel safe, parents feel supported, and communities feel connected.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>.&nbsp;

Marketing Professional Grows Multi-Unit Pigtails & Crewcuts Presence Across Metro Atlanta

After a successful career in advertising, Kelly Talal is growing a multi-unit portfolio in Marietta, Roswell, and Woodstock, GA, while balancing corporate life, motherhood, and franchising.

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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

Pigtails & Crewcuts owners are known for more than great haircuts — they are community anchors who lead with compassion, purpose and service.

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image of 1851 franchise graphic from 1851 franchise for pigtails and crewcuts with deean ferrone

 From Classroom to Clippers: How a Former Teacher Built a Thriving Business with Pigtails & Crewcuts

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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

With no current locations in Missouri, the award-winning kids’ hair salon franchise sees major opportunity in the growing family communities of St. Louis, Missouri.

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

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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

From new franchisees and community outreach to deeper brand involvement and functional strength, Pigtails & Crewcuts closes the year with purpose, along with a clear outlook for what’s next.

Tech Leader Signs 3-Unit Deal To Build a New Legacy With Pigtails & Crewcuts Franchise in Chicago

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