Freshly Faded Barbershop is more than a place for a sharp fade—it’s the vision of two Latina entrepreneurs, Erica Hernandez and Monica Delgado, who turned years of hard work, shared values, and faith into a space of their own. As Hispanic women and working mothers in a male-dominated industry, they’ve created not just a business but a statement: representation matters, and women can lead with strength and purpose.

Their journey began in 2011 at Floyd’s 99 Barbershop in Westminster. Erica had already been there since 2007, while Monica was just joining the team. They met behind the chairs and quickly bonded. Both were young mothers taking early shifts to balance work with school pickups, navigating an industry where women—especially Latinas—were rarely in the spotlight. That shared experience created a natural connection, one built on hustle, resilience, and a shared desire for something more.

Over the next decade, they worked side by side. Erica, who started cutting hair in the early ’90s, and Monica, who joined the field in the early 2000s, pushed each other to keep growing. They kept up with trends, invested in continued education, and sharpened their craft. But more than that, they built trust with each other—and the early spark of entrepreneurship began to grow. They wanted greater freedom, not just to be creative, but to own their time, their work, and their future.

Leaving Floyd’s was a big step, but with strong client support, they moved on to rent chairs at a shop in Olde Town Arvada. It was a chance to work independently while still leaning on each other. For five years, they ran their own stations and built their brands, but the idea of going separate ways never felt right. Their partnership worked, and it was clear that the next move had to be one they made together.

That next move came sooner than expected. Erica had an appointment to view a potential shop space and invited Monica to join. After meeting with the leasing rep, they both felt it might be the one. Later that same day, the broker called with surprising news: another salon in the same center had just terminated its lease. It was larger, fully built out, and available immediately. They didn’t overthink it—they signed the lease and got to work.

Freshly Faded Barbershop opened soon after, entirely self-funded with no outside investors. The name came naturally, reflecting their style, professionalism, and commitment to clean, consistent service. Staying in Arvada was never up for debate. This was their community, where they built their careers and earned the trust of their clients. They brought their team with them, six talented barbers who shared their vision and wanted to be part of something bigger—including Erica’s daughter, who proudly joined them in the next chapter of their journey.

As a Latina- and women-owned barbershop, Freshly Faded brings a new perspective to an industry still dominated by men. Erica and Monica didn’t just create a business, they built a space where people feel seen, respected, and welcomed. Their leadership reflects the values they live by: hard work, community, and showing up every day with purpose.

Throughout it all, their faith in God has given them the confidence to keep moving forward. They’re deeply grateful for their journey, their growth, and every client who helped them get here.

Opening day was filled with support from friends, family, and longtime clients. One customer walked in, looked around, and said, “This place feels like a blessing.” It was a simple moment, but one that captured everything they had built.

For Erica and Monica, Freshly Faded isn’t just a shop. It’s the result of years of dedication, a reflection of who they are, and a reminder of what’s possible when women bet on themselves—and believe in something greater.

At the heart of it all is their motto: “Freshly Faded, with respect and integrity.” It’s more than a tagline—it’s how they work, how they lead, and how they treat every person who walks through their doors.