Kristen Fischer: Analog Barbershop

Kristen Fischer standing outside her barbershop

Background

Analog Barbershop is a barbershop located in downtown Eugene, Oregon, owned By Kristen Fischer. An experienced barber and single mother, Fischer took over ownership of the established business in early 2021. Analog Barbershop aims to be a place where customers can unwind, have a beer and enjoy live music in addition to getting a haircut. With room for up to 11 barbers, Kristen saw potential for growth in equipment improvements, training, product sales, and expanding the shop's community appeal.

“Everything is strategically planned out, so no matter what I do, I can see the impact of any move I make.”

Kristen Fischer

Owner, Analog Barbershop

Problem

As a new business owner taking over during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kristen faced several challenges. She had numerous ideas for improving and growing the business, but struggled to organize and prioritize them. Kristen found herself overwhelmed with handwritten notes and disorganized plans, making it difficult to determine what tasks to tackle first. Additionally, she needed to balance the demands of running a business with her responsibilities as a single parent, often bringing work home and having less time with her daughter.

Kristen Fischer organizing hair products in her barbershop

Solution

Kristen discovered LivePlan through a chance encounter with a business advisor who had experience with the software. She began using LivePlan to organize her thoughts, ideas, and financials in one place. Working with her advisor, Kristen developed financial forecasts and organized her short and long-term plans for Analog. The software's forecasting tools allowed her to visualize different business scenarios, such as the impact of adding more barbers or investing in new equipment. LivePlan also helped Kristen link the barbershop's performance to her personal and business goals.

Outcome

Using LivePlan has transformed Kristen's approach to running Analog Barbershop. She now has a clear, strategic plan that allows her to make informed decisions about business improvements and investments. The easy-to-update forecast helps Kristen adjust to business changes and uncertainties. She reviews LivePlan at least monthly, and often weekly, to track tasks and financials. Kristen is now confident in her ability to grow Analog Barbershop, with plans to expand product sales and offer ongoing training for barbers.