Hannah Peterson is carving out a safe space

Name: Hannah Peterson (She/Her) 

Location: New Orleans, LA 

Business: Bandit Hair Company

Tell us about your business.

Bandit Hair Company is a queer hair collective that aims to create a safe space for folks to access haircuts that are gender affirming. Unlike most hair shops, we offer cuts and coloring services without gendered pricing. Our small shop has become a community hub for LGBTQIA+ community in New Orleans where folks can feel comfortable bringing their whole selves to the chair. 

Why did you decide to start your own business? What inspired the idea? 

By 2019, I had spent nearly a decade working in barbershops in New Orleans. Many of the shops wouldn’t allow people assigned female at birth to get their hair cut there. It was disheartening to have to turn my community away from services. I wanted to create a space that is inclusive of all genders, which is why I chose to put “company” in the name. This has been a move away from more gendered terms like “salon” or “barbershop.”

How did you get started?

I began dreaming of Bandit Hair Company in 2017 and it wasn’t until 2019 that we opened our doors. After many years of meeting and working with incredible barbers and stylists, I was ready to finally create a space of my own. My goal was to create a safe space for folks from all walks of life and something that reflected what I am most passionate about: the LGBTQIA+ community. One of the most important aspects of getting started was leaning into the community I had built here in New Orleans. I connected with other queer hairdressers who were interested in working in a more inclusive environment. I found space through another community member and things started to fall into place. 

What is the biggest lesson you learned in the first year?

Bandit opened its doors only six months before the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. We closed for three months and were able to reopen when vaccines had rolled out. Being able to offer a small sense of normalcy for folks during this time was meaningful and changed the way I see my job. I realized how important hair is and how lucky I am to help people feel like themselves. As Phoebe Waller-Bridge said in Fleabag; “Hair Is Everything!” 

What was the most surprising thing about becoming a business owner? 

I’ve been stunned by how far folks will travel to come see us and get their hair done! We have clients come from other parts of the south to access affirming hair services and be in our space. I am always thinking about my business and ways I can make it better. My next goal is to expand Bandit into a full queer wellness center where community members can access a wide range of services.

Were there any things about running a business you didn’t know when you started? How did you teach yourself? 

I didn't know anything about running a business when I got started. I didn't go to college and hadn’t taken any business classes. I’ve learned everything I know by asking questions, leaning on my community, and working through tough moments as they come. 

What tools help you run your business?

Systems like QuickBooks have been so helpful! Also having a physical planner and pen to write down plans and appointments helps me stay organized. 

What advice do you have for others looking to start their own business? 

Get an accountant! My accountant Lindsay (MoneyMom LLC) has helped me so much. She’s taught me how to use QuickBooks, explained what licenses I need to run the shop, and is always available for questions. 

What is your best advice to other small business owners for hiring and retaining staff? 

I treat everyone who works at Bandit as my equal, because they are. Whenever we want to change something or hire someone new it is a group decision. We're all friends and I think it makes a difference in a work environment. Our clients can tell we are happy to be there and love what we do, as well as each other. 

What challenges do you feel are unique to LGBTQIA+ business owners?

The first thing that comes to mind is being an openly Queer space in a red state. Right now Louisiana is trying to pass a “don't say gay” bill and we are all stressed about what this would mean for us and our clients. These moments are scary and disheartening, but also reaffirm the importance of the work we are doing.

How can small business owners give back and support the LGBTQIA+ community? 

Small business owners can give back by sharing resources and information beyond what their business offers. At Bandit, we are able to recommend queer affirming health care providers, gyms, and social events. Through this, clients are able to create a road map of how to access care and build community in a difficult world. Community boards in safe places are the best kinds of free access. 

What has been your proudest moment? 

One of the things I'm most proud of is when the show Queer Eye filmed a makeover in our shop. Jonathan Van Ness expressed how important spaces like Bandit are for a woman named Steph who was looking to express herself in a more queer way. I felt proud to have them and the world witness the work we are doing. 

When you’re having a tough day, who or what inspires you to keep going? 

All of our clients. When people tell me how much Bandit has meant it warms my heart and reminds me of the importance of what I’m doing. Giving people the haircut that feels best to express themselves and their gender is such a special gift and I'm so grateful people put that trust in me. 

How do you maintain a work/life balance as a small business owner? In what ways do you take care of your mental health? 

This is so hard but so important! I make sure to have at least one day a week dedicated to parts of my life outside of work. Once a week, I volunteer on a horse ranch and take a pottery class. Leaning into these other aspects of my life has really helped me avoid burnout and continue to love this work. 

What’s your “power song” and why? 

“Femininomenon” by Chappell Roan. Chappell’s music always makes me want to dance and could get anyone out of a funk. She's definitely a gay icon.