James McCann III

James McCann III - Maryland
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Photography and Nomination by Shooting Future Stars
Featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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The Nomination: James McCann III is a junior in High School who launched his business at the age of 14. His first client was his mom. From there he then began cutting friends and family hair in 2017. He became so popular and in demand that he launched Wavycuts.est17. James is a full-time student and cuts hair during every free moment he can, from Fridays after school until Sunday evening. Fades are his specialty. He also trims beards and arches eyebrows. James is such an inspiring young man and takes great pride in his work and business. He's inspiring boys, teens and adults.


Tell me about how your business got started.
My business got started with many inspiring factors. My brother is a proud owner of his own barbershop. I also found a youtuber called 360 Jezzy, which turned into a wave and barber channel. This inspired me to get some clippers as soon as I could. My own barber gave me my first pair of fading clippers. When I got home, I begged my mom to let me cut her hair since she already had a low cut hairstyle and she agreed. My mom was my first customer.

What is “Wavycuts.est17.”?
Wavycuts.est17 is a combination of me. I have waves and I started cutting in 2017, thus est. (established).

How are you inspiring to others?
I keep improving and don’t give up. The first time I cut, it was not what I wanted the finished product to look like at all. Despite this, I continued to cut and got better and better. I continued to watch videos and tutorials to improve. I even cut hair when I broke my leg. My grandmother bought me a device that would allow me to rest my leg and cut hair at the same time. I am passionate about cutting hair and believe God has given me a gift so I don’t want to waste it.

What are some trimming/cutting techniques you think everyone should know?
There are 3 tips that I learned and believe barbers should use each day.
#1 Always take your time so the work is your best work and a reflection of the client and barber. #2 Never get discouraged with a haircut. Make sure each haircut you have a strong mindset knowing you will get better because of the repetition.
And, #3 Always use your mirror. The mirror does not lie, so if your lineup is not straight or fade not blended it will show.

What are your goals for the business moving forward?
I have two major plans. The first plan is to travel around the world to different barber events and expos. And my second plan is to own at least 5 barber shops by the age of 30 in the D.C, Maryland, and Virginia areas.

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