Kansas City Connect

Kansas City’s neighborhoods have become home to many distinctive local businesses, but few have made such a stylish impact as Hudson / Hawk Barber & Shop. This modern barbershop seamlessly blends traditional grooming services with contemporary comfort, creating a unique space where haircuts are just part of the experience. The Kansas City location continues the brand’s commitment to quality, community, and craftsmanship that has made Hudson / Hawk a beloved fixture across the Midwest.

Founded on the principle that men deserve better grooming options in comfortable, masculine spaces, Hudson / Hawk has quickly established itself as more than just a place to get a haircut—it’s a community gathering spot where conversations flow as freely as the premium grooming products they offer. Let’s step inside and discover what makes this Kansas City barbershop such a special addition to the local scene.

Hudson / Hawk Barber & Shop was born from a vision shared by Paul Catlett and Thad Forrester, who recognized a significant gap in the men’s grooming market throughout the Midwest. In 2013, they officially launched their concept, responding to what they saw as “a drastic disappearance of original barbershops and a lack of masculine grooming options.” Their mission was clear: create neighborhood barbershops that offered quality haircuts in an environment that fostered community, conversation, and excellent service—all accompanied by great music.

The founders brought complementary skills to their partnership. Catlett, with his background in construction, woodworking, and formal training at Vidal Sassoon Academy, contributed artistic vision and technical expertise. Forrester came from corporate America with advertising and marketing experience, seeking a change that would allow him to build something meaningful. Together, they created a brand that harkened back to traditional barbershop culture while embracing modern design and service standards—a formula that has allowed them to expand to twelve locations across Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

When you step into Hudson / Hawk Barber & Shop, you’re immediately presented with diverse service options designed to meet any grooming need. Their skilled barbers expertly handle everything from clean zero fades to more textured shear cuts, ensuring every client leaves looking sharp. The “Stay Sharp Cut” and “Original Cut” packages form the foundation of their service menu, with each barber bringing their personal expertise to customize the experience. The shop has cultivated an atmosphere where quality haircuts happen alongside genuine conversation, creating the kind of community space that’s increasingly rare today.

Beyond haircuts, Hudson / Hawk distinguishes itself through a carefully curated selection of premium grooming products. They proudly carry brands like Hitch, which they describe as “not just another men’s haircare brand” but “your daily dose of confidence in a jar.” Other featured brands include STMNT Grooming Goods, created by leading barbers; Firsthand, with its commitment to clean ingredients; Slick Gorilla, which “changed hair styling forever”; and Proraso, an iconic Italian brand that has been refining beard care since 1948. This thoughtful selection ensures clients can maintain their look between visits.

The Kansas City location of Hudson / Hawk exemplifies the brand’s commitment to creating modern, comfortable spaces where people of all ages can enjoy quality cuts and good conversation. Like each of their shops, the Kansas City establishment was designed with intention, featuring masculine yet welcoming décor that invites clients to relax and engage with their community. The shop maintains the brand’s signature aesthetic while incorporating elements that connect it specifically to Kansas City’s unique character and neighborhood vibe.

What sets the Kansas City shop apart within the Hudson / Hawk network is its role in bringing the brand’s vision to one of the Midwest’s most populous cities. As part of the company’s expansion beyond its Springfield origins, the Kansas City location serves as an important milestone in their growth while maintaining the intimate, neighborhood-focused approach that has made their brand successful. The shop embodies the founders’ belief that barbershops should be community places—spaces where genuine connections happen alongside professional grooming services.

The Hudson / Hawk difference becomes immediately apparent from the moment you walk through their doors. By intentionally reviving traditional barbershop culture, they’ve created a space where men across generations can connect and converse while receiving expert grooming services. This revival of barbershop culture isn’t merely nostalgic—it fulfills a genuine need for in-person community spaces in an increasingly digital environment. Kansas City residents have embraced this concept, appreciating a place where they can maintain their appearance while building relationships with their barbers and fellow customers.

Beyond individual services, Hudson / Hawk has established itself as a positive force in Kansas City’s local business community. Their shop creates jobs, contributes to neighborhood vitality, and provides a gathering space that strengthens community bonds. Their motto of being “the barbershop for all generations” reflects their inclusive approach, welcoming everyone from young professionals to retirees into a space where quality service comes with genuine human connection. It’s this blend of traditional values with modern execution that has made Hudson / Hawk Barber & Shop a valued institution in Kansas City and beyond.