DUBOIS: After more than four decades of dedicated service to the DuBois community, veteran barber Toni Kulbacki is preparing to close the doors of her shop on West Long Avenue at the end of June. But while her physical shop may soon be vacant, her commitment to her clients and craft is far from over.

Kulbacki, who will celebrate her 65th birthday in May, began her journey in barbering on April 4, 1984. Five years later, she purchased a barbershop on South Brady Street—known as The Men’s Room Barbershop—where she worked for 21 years. In search of a larger space and drawn by the vibrant energy of downtown DuBois, she relocated to West Long Avenue two decades ago. Nestled in the same building as Joe’s Tux Shop, the location offered high ceilings, increased visibility, and a continued presence in the heart of the city.

In February, Kulbacki made the bittersweet announcement that her shop was for sale. The response was immediate and heartfelt: a flood of well-wishes, fond memories, and expressions of sadness from the many clients who had come to view her not just as a barber, but as a friend.

Though she is stepping away from running her own shop, Kulbacki emphasized that her days behind the chair are not over. She intends to continue cutting hair on a part-time basis at a to-be-determined location in the local area. Her decision stems from a desire to spend more time with family—especially her children and grandchildren—as well as to travel and embrace new experiences with her husband.

A Shop Built on Relationships

Much of what has made Kulbacki’s shop special can’t be captured in a haircut menu. Her long-time colleague, Suzi McCracken, who has worked part-time alongside her for 15 years, describes their partnership as one that grew from mere acquaintance into genuine friendship. The two have shared long days, personal stories, and even outdoor adventures like kayaking and camping, forming a bond that extends far beyond the workplace.

Beyond her barbershop, Kulbacki also co-owns Two Birch Winery on South Brady Street with her family—another beloved local business she hopes to spend more time at now that her schedule is opening up.

While her shop has catered predominantly to men, Kulbacki has always prided herself on creating a welcoming space for all—men, women, and children alike. Her services have ranged from traditional cuts and shaves to colors, perms, and styling, offering something for everyone for over 40 years.

A Community Pillar

Kulbacki’s approach to business has always been deeply personal. Her commitment to inclusivity and respect has left a lasting impression on clients of all ages and backgrounds. One woman recently took to Facebook to express gratitude for how Kulbacki embraced her deaf parents as regular clients—learning sign language and creating a space where they were understood, respected, and valued.

In another example of her attentiveness, Kulbacki described her approach to working with autistic children. Knowing that traditional appointments can be difficult for them, she often sets aside extended time blocks and adapts the environment to reduce stress. Whether it means quietly waiting for the right moment or gently following a child around the room until the timing is just right, she does whatever is needed to make each experience safe and successful.

"You do what you have to do," Kulbacki said. "Every individual is different, and we meet them where they are."

Endings and Beginnings

Perhaps the most difficult part of closing the shop, Kulbacki says, is the idea of saying goodbye to the loyal customers who have supported her since the beginning. Many have become more like family than clientele—regulars who’ve walked through her doors for years, shared life stories, and entrusted her not only with their hair but with their confidence and trust.

Clients have also grown fond of her friendly shop dog, Oliver, whose cheerful presence has been a comforting staple of the barbershop experience.

Although she plans to take the summer off after closing in June, Kulbacki hopes to sell the business to someone who will carry on its community-centered legacy. Her ideal buyer would be a local entrepreneur committed to maintaining the values and welcoming atmosphere she worked so hard to build.

"I care who it goes to," she said. "I want to see it thrive."