Conversations with Teresa Ontiveros

Today we’d like to introduce you to Teresa Ontiveros.

Hi Teresa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I served in the military for over 10 years, and during my time stationed in Okinawa, Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic, I discovered barbering. I’ve always been artistic and interested in hair and grooming, and in the Marine Corps appearance is a major part of the culture. In 2020, I started teaching myself how to cut men’s hair while overseas, originally just out of curiosity and passion for the craft.

The more I practiced, the more I fell in love with barbering. I enjoyed the creativity, precision, and confidence that comes with helping people look and feel their best. What started as a hobby quickly turned into something I wanted to pursue seriously.

After completing my military service, I moved forward with barber school and attended in Oceanside. Since then, I’ve been focused on building myself within the industry, growing my clientele, and serving my local community through barbering.

A big part of my journey has also been connecting with Statement Grooming Goods. Their approach to men’s grooming, quality, and consistency resonates with me and aligns with how I view my craft and the standard I aim to bring into my work.

Today, I continue to grow as both a barber and entrepreneur. My military background taught me discipline, consistency, and professionalism, and I carry those values with me into my work every day. My goal is to continue building a strong brand, create a high-end grooming experience for clients, and keep evolving within the industry.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Overall, I would say the journey has been smooth in the sense that I feel like I found my calling early on. Barbering just made sense for me. I’ve always been someone who enjoys helping people, whether that’s through problem-solving or simply being present and listening.

What I didn’t expect is how much of barbering goes beyond the haircut itself. A lot of clients come in not just for a service, but for connection. Sometimes it’s about helping someone achieve the look they want, and other times it’s about being someone they can talk to and trust. Many people use that time in the chair to open up about what they’re going through or what’s on their mind.

That part of the profession really confirmed for me that this is where I’m supposed to be. It’s not just about cutting hair, it’s about impact, presence, and creating a space where people feel heard and confident when they leave.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a licensed barber based in North County San Diego, and my focus is on modern men’s grooming with an emphasis on clean, tailored cuts that fit each client’s lifestyle and personal style. My work is centered around precision fades, scissor work, and overall men’s grooming but just as important to me is the consultation process and making sure every client leaves feeling confident and understood.

Through my brand and social media presence under @teresadabarber and www.teresadabarber.com, I’ve built a style that reflects consistency, attention to detail, and a clean, elevated aesthetic. My goal is not just to give a haircut, but to deliver an experience that feels intentional from start to finish.

What I’m most proud of is the trust I’ve built with my clients and the relationships that come with this craft. A lot of people sit in my chair not only for a service, but for a space where they can relax, talk, and be heard. That human connection is something I value just as much as the technical side of barbering.

What sets me apart is my background and perspective. My 10 plus years in the military taught me discipline, consistency, and professionalism, which I carry directly into my work. Combined with my artistic approach and passion for helping people, I’ve built a barbering style that’s both structured and personal.

A big influence in my journey has also been aligning with the values behind Statement Grooming Goods, which reflects the same standard I aim to bring into my work clean, intentional, and high-quality men’s grooming.

At the end of the day, I don’t just see myself as a barber. I see myself as someone helping people feel like the best version of themselves every time they sit in my chair.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I’ve been fortunate to have a lot of support throughout my journey from family and friends to mentors and barbers I look up to within the industry. That support has played a huge role in helping me stay motivated and continue growing, especially during the times where I’ve had to figure things out on my own.

For people who want to work with or support me, the best way is through connecting with my work and my brand. Whether it’s sitting in my chair, sharing my work on social media, or engaging with my content through @teresadabarber or my website www.teresadabarber.com, every bit of support truly helps me grow and reach more people.

I’m also always open to collaborating with other creatives, barbers, and brands that align with my style and values especially those focused on men’s grooming, education, and elevating the industry. My goal is to continue building meaningful connections, learning from others, and contributing to the barbering community in a positive way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.teresadabarber.com
• Instagram: teresadabarber
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/teresa-da-barber-vista-4
• Other: https://share.google/39881duQMHUBkfgeJ