Unlocking the Vault New Barbershop Opens in Ashland

Unlocking the Vault

New Barbershop Opens in Ashland

Gwen Akers

The Ashland Beacon

When we hear of a vault or safe, we might think of old spy movies or an underground adventure, but now, Ashland is starting its own adventure by opening its own vault of sorts: The Vault Grooming Co.

Jointly led by experienced cosmetologists Kevin Steele and Vance Lycans, a new barbershop has joined Ashland’s downtown businesses. With an eye on the community and sharing some of the “vault’s” best-kept hair secrets, Lycans and Steele bring equal opportunity and a friendly edge to the haircut business.

One of the first steps was finding a location for their new shop, and after visiting the old Miners Coins shop on 29th Street, they found both their location and their name.

“When we came to check the building out, we were looking around and making sure it was big enough, [we noticed] an old safe in the back, and the owner of the building was telling us that we could use it. Then Vance just screamed out ‘The Vault,’ and I was like, ‘That’s it! We’re on to something here,” detailed Steele.

Steele and Lycans met through a mutual friend, both recognizing the need for community within a barbershop. Steele has over 17 years of cosmetology experience, and after struggling on his own the first time, he knew it was time to open a new shop alongside veteran and cosmetologist Vance Lycans. United by their common goals of creating an accessible and welcoming atmosphere, they both bring sharp skills and friendly smiles to the barber’s chair.

“We price ourselves to where we're accessible to everyone. That way, everyone comes in and they feel like a first-class member in a high-end shop,” explained Steele.

  The duo brings a fresh energy and character to the barbershop scene, using their own vault to display their products and working each day to make the shop their own. Soon, a mural will be painted inside, and other events and improvements are on the horizon. One such upcoming event focuses on the community aspect of The Vault Grooming Co.—Operation: Fresh Start.

Thanks to community sponsors, on August 8th from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., The Vault will be giving free haircuts and school supplies to K–12 children preparing to start school. Hillbilly Hibachi will also be available for food.

“We gathered up and went and got some sponsorships from amazing people from around town and the community, and it made it happen. We are going to have backpacks full of supplies for kids to come and grab, and they'll get free haircuts,” explained Lycans. “We're here to help, whether it be kids, adults, if you're trying to get back on your feet, we're here for you, and we want people to know that.” In the future, the shop will continue to offer community-oriented events and specials.

The Vault is open Monday through Saturday and is a place for anyone to try out a new hairdo or get their usual classic. For more information, find them on Facebook at The Vault Grooming Co.