WE ARE IN A NEW LOCATION, INSIDE THE TACOMA ARMORY!

1001 S Yakima Ave
Suite 7A
Tacoma WA 98405

Enter through left side entrance on Nollmeyer and hit TBC on the directory.

253.339.1532

A Lil Bit About TBC

What does every dapper person in every city have in common? They Google “a good barbershop” before moving there. Finding a good barbershop is SO much more than “how do their cuts look?” Have you ever walked into a barbershop and/or salon and something felt off?  Maybe it was the decor. Maybe the music. Maybe it was the smell. Maybe it was the 20 eyes of judgement as you walk through the door.

Owner Georgette Watje is that 40-something, lesbian barber who opened her first shop in her garage during a Quarantine. How the hell did she get here? Born in Western MD, Georgette became an adult in Baltimore. She found her love for the outdoors in Colorado. Now in Tacoma, she has the best of all of those previous worlds combined. And she Googled “a good barbershop” before moving to each one.

The Barber Collective is a space where the focus is you and your hair. What do you want your hair to say about you? Georgette wants to help you tell that story. Does she want you to leave feeling dapper AF and eager to tag TBC in a selfie? Of course. But more than anything, Georgette wants you walking out the door feeling great and eager to pass the love forward.  

The Grit City of Destiny — lets get your head right.

The TBC Crew

all are welcome

Georgette watje

Owner

(she/her)

Owner of The Barber Collective in Tacoma’s Hilltop neighborhood, Georgette has made a name for herself in hairstyling with her inclusive approach. After 9 years in social work and 3 years in logistics, Georgette opened The Barber Collective in 2020 to provide a welcoming space for all. The shop celebrates all haircuts, regardless of gender. Georgette’s belief that “hair is genderless” has resonated with clients who appreciate the freedom to express themselves.

Georgette’s background as a social worker shapes her commitment to inclusivity and creating a safe space. During the pandemic, she transformed her garage into a barbershop, adapting to challenges. Her story and dedication have redefined the barbershop experience and connected with the Tacoma community. Georgette also supports local establishments like Campfire Coffee, Bar Rosa, and The Tshirt Men. Her journey from social work to a gender-inclusive barbershop showcases her resilience, innovation, and commitment to empowering individuals through hairstyling.

nae

Stylist

(THEY/THEM)

Nae’s name is Naomi, but the cool kids call them Nae. They’re a queer stylist here in Tacoma, a transplant from Boise, Idaho about 8 years ago when they moved here for college. Nae is a musician/songwriter, crafting supply collector, and bartender/server. In general they enjoy getting to know people, reading, getting crafty, baking, cooking, getting outside, and making stuff. Nae’s aim is to provide a fun and safe space in their chair, and help people feel seen and heard in all the ways they deserve. Let’s chat and get you feeling exactly like YOU. 

 

Quela (Que)

Stylist

They/them/she-ish

Quela, often known as Que, is a talented barber and stylist with a deep commitment to inclusivity and client comfort. Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Quela relocated to Washington after high school, where they embarked on a journey of self-discovery that ultimately led them to the world of barbering. Their passion lies in helping others feel confident and comfortable, a mission that they bring to every interaction and appointment.

As a fat, queer, and neurodivergent individual, Quela understands the challenges of navigating traditional salon environments. This personal experience drives their dedication to creating a safe, welcoming space where clients feel heard and valued. Quela specializes in shoulder-length cuts, curly hair, and vivid color, but their true joy comes from connecting with clients and ensuring each visit is a positive, affirming experience. Their artistic nature shines through in their work, whether it’s behind the chair or in any colorful project they take on. With Que, clients can always expect a warm, inclusive atmosphere and a top-notch service.

“I pride myself on inclusivity and aim to bring a positive attitude to every interaction and appointment.”

Press

The News Tribune

Queer-friendly barber shop in downtown Tacoma to move into new space after lost lease

March 11, 2024

“An LGBTQ-owned and centered barber shop in downtown Tacoma will move into a new space at the Armory next month after its lease was canceled in late February.”

Read article

SEATTLE REIGN FC

Intentionalist

Business Spotlight: The Barber Collective
July 6, 2021

“Meet Georgette Watje, the owner of The Barber Collective in Tacoma’s Hilltop neighborhood and a firm believer that hair is genderless and a form of self expression.”

Read article

R City R Stories

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

WE FEELIN’ THE LOVE

LOVE GEORGETTE. Will totally listen to your wants and needs of your look, and you will leave her chair feeling awesome.

—Madeline Jovanovich

Georgette has been my barber for five years now. Cuts have always been quick, perfect, with serious attention to detail.

—Danny Sanders

“I’ve been going to G for a while now and couldn’t have been more happy that she opened her own spot. G’s skills with the scissors are equally matched with the cool vibe of her shop and her ease of making conversation. Supporting G as a local business owner goes further than just getting a great cut. She is an inspiration to me for being an ally to some many in the community, she not only speaks it but lives it as well. If you haven’t gotten a dope cut from G, I couldn’t recommend it more.”

—Alexander Rera

“Love getting my haircut by Georgette. Always delivers a dapper classic cut that gets me a lot of compliments. A blend of old school with a stylish twist. Good conversation too. The new shop has a great feel with lots of vintage character. Thanks Georgette”   

—Jack Hood
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