A Dream Come True

A dream was realized on March 14 when Carrie Troha cut the ribbon signaling the grand opening of her new business, Main Event Barber Lounge, 102 E. Hitt St., Mt. Morris.

Opening her own business has been daunting at times, but Troha is motivated. The death of her parents in recent years caused her to rethink priorities. At age 44, she thought, ‘You don’t know if you don’t try,’ and began developing a business plan, the financing, and the persistence needed to open her own barber shop. Troha sought help from the Mt. Morris Economic Development Corporation, which offered valuable grant funding and advice.

Troha has worked off and on in the beauty and hair industry since she was seventeen. Licensed in cosmetology, she’s built a career as a men’s barber. Her dream business, Main Event Barber Lounge, caters to men of all ages, from little tykes to 96-year-old Darrell Davis, a repeat customer.

“It’s been an adventure,” admitted Troha. “I was scared to death the first couple of months. But business is picking up, and the marketing is paying off.” First-time customer Andrew Robertson of Mt. Morris said a flyer posted at a local restaurant enticed him into the shop. He added, “I’ll be back.”

Walk-ins are welcome, and Troha encourages repeat customers with a punch card promotion. After five cuts, you receive $5 off the next cut, or you can donate that $5 discount to a family in need of kids’ haircuts – a program managed by her church. It’s a way to bring customers back and give back to the community.

Troha enjoyed filling the shop with comfortable leather furniture and rustic wood décor. Local and national sports jerseys line the walls alongside fun and eclectic memorabilia. Five screens show sports, game shows, or movies, creating a relaxed ‘guys’ place’ vibe. Two additional barber chairs are ready for more barbers and business.

The shop on the corner of Route 64 and McKendrie Avenue in Mt. Morris opened in October 2025 to start building clientele and generating revenue. The grand opening and ribbon cutting were scheduled after the outdoor signs were in place.

Follow the MAIN EVENT Barber Lounge on social media, and if you’re a fella, swing by for a cut. Read more Mt. Morris Economic Development Corporation success stories here.