For Jesse Pooni , Jaclyn and Vicki, Tommy Gun's Barbershop is more than a workplace – it’s been a decade-long journey of growth and friendship. As they prepare to open a new location at Thunderbird Centre, the trio reflect on their dedication to the brand and the excitement of this next chapter.
Jesse's career began more than 10 years ago when he joined the Tommy Gun’s team in the Lower Mainland, working alongside Jaclyn and Vicki. Back then, Tommy Gun's was a budding brand under the same corporate umbrella as Chatters Hair Salon. “I was actually the district manager for both Chatters and Tommy Gun's when they first launched in the area,” Jesse says. “It’s funny to think that was 10 years ago. Time has flown by, and so much has changed.”
What hasn’t changed is the barbershop's commitment to grooming excellence. In 2019, after years of helping grow the brand from the corporate side, Jesse took a leap of faith and became the franchisee of the South Surrey location. “When the head office approached me, it didn’t feel like a typical business deal – it felt like a family inviting me to be a bigger part of something I believed in.”
As Jesse prepares to open the newest location at the Thunderbird Centre — marking the 100th location worldwide for the Canadian family-owned franchise — he couldn't be more excited. “This new shop is special. It’s got a brand-new look – clean, modern and designed with the guest experience in mind,” he says. “I’m really looking forward to welcoming people into this space, especially families. It’s the perfect place for a father and son to share a great experience.”
Jesse isn’t embarking on this new venture alone. Vicki, who's been with Tommy Gun's for five years, is stepping into the role of owner-operator for the first time. “I’m excited to be a first-time business owner and to grow with Tommy Gun's long-term because it’s such a fun place to work,” Vicki says. “The people I’ve met and the guests who come in – you can grow with them and build a strong connection. It’s probably the best work culture I’ve ever been part of.”
Jaclyn, another key player in the new location, shares these sentiments. With a long history working alongside Jesse and Vicki, she’s eager to contribute to the success of the Thunderbird Centre shop. “We’ve grown as a family, and this is going to be another family that we want to build together,” Jaclyn says. “Tommy Gun's isn’t just about cutting hair – it’s about creating an experience. Right when you walk in the door, you’re not just a customer, you’re family.”
For Jesse, Vicki and Jaclyn, the new location isn’t just about expansion; it’s about continuing a legacy of exceptional service and community connection. “What I love most about working at Tommy Gun's is the people – both the team and the guests,” Jesse says. “Providing a safe and supportive place for my team to do their best work and creating an experience that our guests will remember – that’s what it’s all about.”
If you’re in Langley and need a fresh cut or scalp massage be sure to stop by Tommy Gun’s new location at Thunderbird Centre, 20159 88 Ave, Langley.