April 11, 2025

Confidence, Culture, and Cuts That Inspire

Vu Le’s Voodoo Barbershop is more than a place for haircuts — it’s a movement rooted in personal empowerment, style, and authentic connection.

After years of working in the industry for others and dreaming of creating something of his own, Vu Le was inspired to open his own barbershop. “I wanted to create a space where people feel valued and confident in their appearance,” Vu said. “After working for others for so long, I knew it was time to build something for myself and create opportunities for others along the way.”

Driven by a passion to make people feel confident in their appearance and to create a welcoming space for the community, Vu opened Voodoo Barbershop in Fountain Valley in October of 2024. With services tailored for both men and women, Voodoo Barbershop is more than just a place for a haircut — it’s a space rooted in mentorship, personal style, and community connection. Vu’s mission is to provide exceptional service while helping others grow alongside him in business and barbering.

Turning an Idea into Reality

Vu had a clear vision for his barbershop, but faced many obstacles. “The biggest challenge was opening a business in the first place. I was clueless about how to even start,” Vu shared.

That’s when he turned to the OCIE SBDC for support. Vu worked closely with SBDC consultant Kathleen Swift, who provided step-by-step guidance, from developing a business plan to navigating the licensing process and managing finances. “Kathleen was always there to guide me step by step,” Vu added. With the SBDC’s support, Vu built a strong foundation for Voodoo Barbershop, ensuring he could confidently open.

Confidence, Community, and Continued Growth

Vu officially opened Voodoo Barbershop on October 22, 2024, generating thousands of dollars in sales shortly after launch. Reflecting on his journey, Vu said, “My experience working with the SBDC has been great because Kathleen provided a lot of important information for me to start my business.” He added, “The most important part of the assistance I received was the personalized guidance and mentorship. She helped me understand the steps needed to start and grow my business.”

Looking to Start or Grow Your Business?

Connect with the OCIE SBDC today. Access expert, business consulting, training, and resources — all at no cost to you. Whether you’re looking to launch a new business or expand an existing one, the OCIE SBDC is here to help you succeed.

Call 1-800-616-7232 or schedule a 15-minute intake appointment today.