Pigtails & Crewcuts

Seven months ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/warin-epstein-099893a/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=husband-and-wife-franchisees-acquired-3-pigtails-crewcuts-7-months-in-theyre-opening-a-4th-2726091" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Warin Epstein</a> and his wife&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/martha-j-epstein-9667933/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=husband-and-wife-franchisees-acquired-3-pigtails-crewcuts-7-months-in-theyre-opening-a-4th-2726091" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Martha</a> acquired three&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> salons in Central Florida. They’re now preparing to open their fourth location of the children’s hair salon franchise.The couple had been considering venturing into franchising for a while. When they were sitting at their children’s hair appointment at their favorite place, they had an epiphany.“We looked at each other and said, ‘This place is always busy and seems to be doing well. I wonder if it’s a franchise.’ As we left the salon I began researching on my phone for information on the franchise. After that it all clicked into place very quickly,” Epstein said.The Epstein family’s love of the brand dates back to their middle son, Sebastian’s, first haircut, which took place at the Dr. Phillips&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=husband-and-wife-franchisees-acquired-3-pigtails-crewcuts-7-months-in-theyre-opening-a-4th-2726091" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> location, which they now own.We knew we wanted to take him to a special place for his ‘first haircut experience, and we could not have been happier.’ We loved the stylist, Mary, that we were paired with, and to this day she is still the only one that has ever cut Sebastian’s hair,” Epstein said.&nbsp;When the opportunity to acquire three thriving locations in their area became available, the Epsteins leaped at the chance. The couple has been operating the three Orlando area locations for seven months now and have loved every minute. In fact, they’ve enjoyed the experience so much that they’ve decided to expand with a fourth location, opening later this year.1851 Franchise spoke with Warin Epstein about his journey into franchising with Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts and his plans for the future.1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us.&nbsp;What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Epstein:&nbsp;I am a real estate attorney and my wife is a property manager, and that's how we met. We met in Brooklyn court actually; she was my witness in a trial. We moved from New York to Florida in 2012, and I had my own law firm and she continued working in property management.Over time, we realized that with our combined knowledge of real estate that the next obvious step for us would be to invest in rental properties. We built a portfolio of properties, but also knew we wanted to diversify our investments. That is when we began exploring franchise opportunities.We wanted to do something without having to reinvent the wheel. We wanted some sort of safety and support, but we also wanted something that meant we didn’t necessarily have to give up our careers or be there in person every single day.My wife and I have brought our kids to Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts, as customers since we moved to Florida. It was such a great experience. We were sitting there, looked at each other and said, ‘This place is always busy and seems to be doing well. I wonder if it’s a franchise.’ As we left the salon I began researching on my phone for information on the franchise. After that, it all clicked into place very quickly.Soon enough, we began talking to the franchise about a potential location, but unfortunately, there wasn’t any availability in our local market. We were seriously considering opening a new location approximately an hour-and-a-half away from where we live, but before we did so, as part of our due diligence, I spoke to the now prior owner of the three locations in our market. Although she had loved her time with the brand, she was ready to move on to the next chapter of her life. After that conversation my wife and I knew that instead of one, we had to figure out a way to acquire three locations, and that is what we did!We acquired the three locations about seven months ago, and we’ve been loving every second of it. It's been an absolute blast so far. Now we are getting ready to open a fourth location.&nbsp;1851: What was your perception of franchising before becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Epstein:&nbsp;As a native New Yorker, I grew up with a bit of negativity towards franchises. I liked the uniqueness of local mom-and-pop businesses and always sought to support them. What I didn’t understand yet, was that most franchises&nbsp;are mom-and-pop family businesses. They are locally owned. My wife and I knew that we wanted the structure and guidance of an established business model, but we also wanted it to be ours. Franchising allows us to have the best of both worlds.&nbsp;1851:&nbsp;What made you choose this brand? What excites you most about this company?Epstein:&nbsp;We were customers of Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts first; Our son, Sebastian’s, first haircut, took place at the Dr Phillips&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=husband-and-wife-franchisees-acquired-3-pigtails-crewcuts-7-months-in-theyre-opening-a-4th-2726091" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> location, which we now own. We knew we wanted to take him to a special place for his first haircut experience, and we could not have been happier. We loved the stylist, Mary, that we were paired with, and to this day she is still the only one that has ever cut Sebastian’s hair.It's really nice to provide a safe and fun space for children to get haircuts. We are really enjoying this new chapter. It is so rewarding to see kids smiling after their cut or playing with the toys while they wait their turn. I just walk around the salon in a good mood every time I am there.1851: What do you like most about the brand?&nbsp;&nbsp;When I first reached out asking about franchise opportunities, they were extremely responsive and quick. The support is great.1851:&nbsp;What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?&nbsp;Epstein:&nbsp;We want to keep growing and be able to support our family and our employees' families. That is why we have decided to go straight to our fourth location. We have appreciated the opportunity to take over the three locations that were already up and running, but we wanted a chance to experience opening a new P&amp;C salon too. We have also been very lucky to have an incredible general manager, Amber Rogers, who has taught us so much about the salon business; she's been with our salons for over 10 years. We honestly don’t know what we would do without her and we are very grateful to have her as part of our team. I don't think you can do this successfully without good people on your team.1851:&nbsp;What is the one thing about your story you want us to know?Epstein:&nbsp;For many years we had a dream of becoming franchise owners. During our journey to make the dream become a reality, we faced many obstacles. Many doors were closed, but we never gave up, we would change direction and knock on the next door until the right combination of doors opened for us. We are grateful to now be part of the Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts story.&nbsp;1851:&nbsp;What advice do you have for others thinking about becoming a franchise owner?Epstein:&nbsp;Don’t be scared off by the word franchise. It may sound like a daunting task to undertake, but if you do your research and put your head to it, you will find that it is achievable.&nbsp;About Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts:&nbsp;Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts is a children’s hair salon franchise created by parents for kids to offer a stress-free haircutting experience for the whole family. In addition to hair care services, Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts offers a custom line of kid-centric hair products, accessories and gifts. To learn more or to find a salon near you, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=husband-and-wife-franchisees-acquired-3-pigtails-crewcuts-7-months-in-theyre-opening-a-4th-2726091" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com</a>. To learn more about franchise opportunities, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=husband-and-wife-franchisees-acquired-3-pigtails-crewcuts-7-months-in-theyre-opening-a-4th-2726091" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com</a>.

Pigtails & Crewcuts Franchisees Set to Open 4th Location

1851 Franchise

Martha and Warin Epstein went from loyal customers to multi-unit owners with the kids salon franchise and have been “loving every second of it.”

Husband-and-Wife Franchisees Acquired 3 Pigtails & Crewcuts – 7 Months In, They’re Opening a 4th

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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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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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image of hillery simmons 1851 franchise franchisee spotlight for pigtails and crewcuts

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

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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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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.

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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.

Husband-and-Wife Franchisees Acquired 3 Pigtails & Crewcuts – 7 Months In, They’re Opening a 4th

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