The Chronicle News Small Business Spotlight: Empowering Change through Compassion-Deon Patton of 'Cut N' Edge' Barber Salon
- Yanice Y. Carter
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
In many communities, the barbershop is more than a place for a haircut. It’s a classroom, a refuge, a confidence builder, and sometimes a second home. At Cut N' Edge Barber Salon, that truth is lived out daily through the steady hands and steady heart of barber and owner Deon Patton.
I first met Deon in the summer of 2019, when Cut N’ Edge was on Waverly Road. From the very beginning, he welcomed The Chronicle into his space, allowing our newspaper to be displayed in his shop. That simple gesture spoke volumes, showing his belief in community storytelling, local voices, and the importance of staying connected.
Today, Cut N’ Edge has grown and relocated to East Michigan Avenue, continuing its mission with
the same integrity and heart that defined it from the start.
Cut N’ Edge is the kind of barbershop parents feel good about bringing their children into. The vibe is laid-back, respectful, and uplifting. There’s laughter and conversation, but without the profanity or negativity that can sometimes fill these spaces. For families like mine, that matters.
I took my son Liam to Cut N’ Edge because I wanted more than a clean cut. I wanted a positive example. I quickly realized that Cut N’ Edge Barber Salon is filled with intention, professionalism, and kindness. It’s rare to walk into the shop and not see a smile on Deon’s face. He takes genuine pride in his work and treats every client with love and respect. He’s known for sharing a kind word, offering encouragement, or simply listening. Deon understands that barbering is about people, not just hair.
Photo Credit: Chronicle Media Group-Confidence starts young—a fresh cut and a big smile. Young Liam Carter enjoys time in the chair at Cut N’ Edge Barber Salon, a space built on care, respect, and encouragement.
That impact became crystal clear one afternoon when Liam excitedly ran up to me, holding his tablet and said, “Look, Mom! I’m cutting hair just like Deon!” He had downloaded a barber game and was beaming with pride. In that moment, it hit me. Deon isn’t just shaping hairlines. He’s shaping how young people see themselves and what they believe is possible.
From Flint to Lansing
Originally from Flint, Michigan, Deon’s journey brought him to Lansing as he built both his career and his family. Over time, the city became home, and Lansing became the place where he chose to establish his business and give back to the community that embraced him.
More Than a Haircut
Deon realized barbering was more than just cutting hair when he saw how much confidence and pride people carried after leaving his chair. Licensed through the Flint Institute of Barbering, Deon has spent the last 19 years sharpening his craft, learning discipline, and honoring the profession.
His cutting style focuses on clean, sharp work with careful attention to detail, specializing in fades, tapers, classic cuts, and modern styles. But what clients remember most isn’t just how they look; it’s how they feel.
To Deon, being a barber means being a listener, a mentor, and a trusted presence. He sees his role as a positive influence, especially for young men, encouraging confidence, responsibility, and self-respect with every appointment.
Built on Relationships
Many of Deon’s clients have become like family. Parents return with their children year after year. These moments, when a client expresses gratitude or brings their child back again, are constant reminders of why the work matters.
Looking ahead, Deon hopes to continue growing Cut N’ Edge, serving more clients, and possibly mentoring new barbers who want to build not just a business, but a reputation rooted in respect.
His advice to those considering barbering or entrepreneurship is simple and strong: stay disciplined, stay humble, never stop learning, and always take pride in your work.
Cut N’ Edge Barber Salon is more than a barbershop. It’s a place grounded in faith, professionalism, and community, a space where boys see positive role models, where men feel affirmed, and where families know they belong. And sometimes, it’s the place that inspires a little boy to say, “I want to be just like him.”
For those looking for more than just a haircut, Cut N' Edge Barber Salon offers an experience rooted in respect, professionalism, and community care. To schedule an appointment or connect with Deon Patton, call or text 517.574.6062, visit the shop at 1824 E. Michigan Ave., Suite A, Lansing, MI 48912, or follow him on Instagram @deontheprofessional.
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