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The old, hometown barbershop is alive and thriving right here in Valrico. Barbershops have for years been portrayed as a neighborhood gathering place where everybody knows everybody and neighbors stay updated on each other's lives and families, and Mr. Willy's is still one of those places.
Mr. Willy's Barber Shop began as a corner barbershop with a live tree growing through it, but became known for more than just the tree and a great haircut. The centrally located store became a family oriented place known for Mr. Willy's friendly smile and his generous giving back to the community.
While the shop has relocated and Mr. Willy himself is gone, long time employee and current owner, Stacy Allen continues the tradition and style that he began. Allen and her three employees have their own second family at Mr. Willy's. Allen has spent almost 14 years performing any and all hair services for her clients, in fact, there are families that she has been styling since the parents were children. She watched them grow up and now she is cutting and styling their children.
Allen follows her, "Keep It Simple," philosophy, giving quality services at affordable prices mixed up with simple kindness. This is what leaves Mr. Willy's untouched while six new salons open in very close proximity to the shop, two of which have already closed.
Customer Robert Lovisek says, "We moved here about five years ago and after a couple of haircuts at other places, we found Stacy. We have been coming here about every four weeks like clockwork ever since."
Allen can sometimes be found visiting and doing hair in the homes of some of her longtime clients that are ill after she leaves the salon for the day. She knows her customers by name and stays involved with their lives.
Mr. Willy's Barber Shop is located at 3634 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and can be reached at 685-3361.
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