“I don’t want to leave barbering, but it’s been so slow,” reflects Gorham, the owner of a unique barbershop. “I’m hoping doing all this extra event stuff helps us out in the long run.” His words echo the sentiments of many small business owners navigating challenging times.
A Journey of Redemption and Reinvention
Asher’s narrative is one of resilience and transformation. Hailing from California, he faced significant challenges, including serving time in jail. However, he turned his life around by earning his GED and barber’s license. Relocating to the Panhandle to be closer to his daughter, Asher has dedicated himself to the craft of barbering, while also engaging in video production and advocating for the local skateboarding community.
The barbershop, aptly named The Gryms Men, pays tribute to Gorham’s late friend, Jeremiah Grym, a local tattoo artist who passed away unexpectedly in 2023. “It was actually my first friend that just, no reasoning, they just died,” Gorham shares. “This opportunity came up right after and I felt like it was a sign.”
Within the walls of The Gryms Men, Grym’s legacy is palpable. The shop is adorned with an eclectic mix of art, skateboards, and quirky items contributed by friends and customers. Among these treasures are a harpoon, a paintball gun for indoor use, and a neon sign from the now-defunct Ratchet Hatchet. “This is just a funny spot that, realistically, if you gave a couple of kids an idea, this is the kind of stuff they would come up with,” Gorham explains. “There’s a lack of real personality in barbershops around here. We’re trying to change that.”
This punk rock ethos extends to their service model. On June 29, the shop will donate all proceeds from haircuts to Healing Paws for Warriors, a nonprofit organization that pairs rescue dogs with veterans. “I love puppies and I love America,” Asher states. “If we can help veterans and animals at the same time, that’s always better.”
Looking ahead, the barbers plan to host free grooming classes and another fundraiser for the Panhandle Animal Welfare Society on Sunday, July 6. Their commitment to community service is as strong as their dedication to their craft.
While the viral fame that brought them attention may eventually wane, the barbers at The Gryms Men remain steadfast in their mission. “It’s not a time limit here,” Asher explains. “You’re gonna be in my chair until I feel like I’m proud of my work.” He emphasizes the importance of building trust with clients, stating, “We educate our clients. It’s not just about the haircut; it’s about trust.”
The Gryms Men can be found at 107 South Ave in Fort Walton Beach, open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. While walk-ins are welcome, appointments are encouraged to ensure a personalized experience.