Big Chop
Meet
Big Chop
Started in 2006, Big Chop's now an expert barber with a loyal following.
Who I Am
About Me
My name is Fred Dantzler aka Big Chop. I'm originally from Kansas City, Kansas, I later moved to Johnson County, graduating from Shawnee Mission North in 2008. I played college football in Coffeyville, where I also started cutting hair in the dorms to afford more than just noodles. This sparked my passion for barbering and my knack for connecting with people. After various jobs, including a seven-year stint at General Motors in Fairfax, Kansas, my desire to become a barber was driven by the flexibility to attend my kids' school events, something barbering could uniquely offer me.
Fun Facts
I enjoy fishing, barbecuing, and spending quality time with my family, cherishing the joy and smiles at our gatherings. I absolutely love sour Skittles. Embracing the philosophy "The Marathon Continues," I believe that despite the challenges we face while pursuing our dreams, life is a marathon, not a race, and we must keep moving forward.
Years of Experience
I've been cutting hair since 2006, totaling 18 years, with the last seven dedicated to my craft.
Training & Education
I studied at Headlines Barber Academy in Kansas City, Kansas.
More Info
My professional aspirations involve reaching significant milestones and expanding my expertise as a barber. I'm available during designated hours at Officially Chopped Barbershop, tailored to suit diverse client needs. Appointments can be made via phone, online booking platforms, or walk-ins, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for my clients.
Why Barbering?
For a long time, I had no interest in barbering as a career; I was more focused on making money and didn't see it as a lucrative path. But as I continued cutting hair, I discovered a profound sense of peace in the conversations and relationships I built with clients. Improving my social skills also meant more clients and higher earnings. The turning point came when I was denied early leave at General Motors to attend my daughter's school event. That moment made me realize I never wanted to have to ask permission again to be there for my kids.
Work & INspiration
The freedom to manage my schedule, allowing me to attend family events or meetings, is invaluable, despite being kept busy by clients. The hardest part was learning to say no to additional clients after hours, but this discipline helped me build a solid client base for the future. My instructors at Headlines Barber Academy, along with Jaime from Midwest Cuts and Rick Phillips, were instrumental in shaping my approach to business and barbering, inspiring me to aspire to have the biggest barbershop in Kansas City. Watching YouTube videos also played a significant role in my learning process.
FAQs
My approach to barbering and style is client-centric. I prefer to start by requesting photos from my clients to understand their desired look. Seeing an image allows me to not only recreate the style but also to infuse it with my unique twist.
My specialties lie in crafting tapers and grooming beards, although I also have a passion for skin fades and using a razor on a bald head. While I'm fully capable of handling long hair and using shears, it's not my preference or strong suit.
What sets me apart from many barbers is my personality; I have a genuine love for making people laugh and smile.
Listening to your client is crucial, but honesty is just as important. When interacting with clients, my goal is to ensure we're both on the same page before I begin cutting. I ask many questions to clarify their expectations and make sure we're aligned.
Officially Chopped
Book With Me
Hit us up, slide into our DMs, or just give us a shout. Officially Chopped – where we turn your hair goals into reality. Don't wait, contact us now and step into your crown!