The salon designed with kids in mind

Why Bizzy Bear Cub Cuts in Cranbrook is resonating with local families

Barbie Torres has realized her dream, and is making a difference for local families. — Photos courtesy of Bizzy Bears Cub Cuts

For many families, a simple haircut can feel anything but simple. After nearly 20 years as a children’s stylist, Barbie Torres saw that reality up close, especially through the experiences of her granddaughter Amira, who is on the autism spectrum. That insight sparked the creation of Bizzy Bear Cub Cuts, a Cranbrook salon designed entirely around kids—considering their comfort, energy, and their need to feel safe, heard, and understood. From ride-on car chairs to cartoons, bubbles, and patience in every interaction, Torres has built a space where children can relax and even have fun in the chair.

In our conversation, Torres shared the inspiration behind Bizzy Bear Cub Cuts, how community support helped turn a long-held dream into reality, and why empathy is the most important tool in her profession.

What made you want to open a salon just for kids?

I have been a children's stylist for most of my 20-year career. My granddaughter Amira is on the autism spectrum, and knowing the challenges Amira (and most children) face when it comes to getting their hair done, I wanted to make it possible for all children to have a safe and fun environment to get their hair cut. And we strive to give that to them here at Bizzy Bear's.

How did you design the space to make it child-friendly and fun?

I have been creating this space in my mind for a very long time. I wanted it to be exciting and also entertaining while they get their hair cut. So my uncle, Ed King, helped me design a hair chair that included ride-on cars. We also hung up a couple televisions to play cartoons. We have suckers, bubbles, coloured braids, bead braids, coloured gel and other children's hair products.

What’s the most important quality in a stylist who works with children?

Patience is key. Children usually don't sit too still, so you have to move with them.

Listening to what they have to say, and keeping calm in those moments that are overwhelming.

How do you help nervous kids feel comfortable in the chair?

I talk to them, I listen to what they are saying. Sometimes it just takes a few moments to make a few introductions for a child to feel comfortable, and that's OK.

What’s the funniest or sweetest moment you’ve witnessed at the salon?

There are so many special moments, from seeing the kids light up with a special request that is executed wonderfully, or a mom's tears with their baby's first cut.

Kids are beautiful, their expressions are timeless.

How do you market your services to local families?

We have a Facebook page and I try posting as much as I can.

What feedback do you hear most from parents?

They feel grateful that there is a space dedicated to making their children feel safe and heard. They appreciate the patience it takes to work with them—not only on their good days but on their off days, too.

What has surprised you most about this business?

The community. We have such a wonderful community, and the support we have gotten is heartwarming. I have had some very disheartening events take place in the last five years, and this community has shown me that with their support, I can do this!

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs in niche services?

Dreams are the beginning of your success. You are the one who makes it possible.

What’s been your proudest accomplishment so far?

Overcoming my fears of failing.

What do you envision for Bizzy Bear’s future?

We would like to also open a salon in Invermere in the near future. Possibly a franchise one day.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I want to thank people of Cranbrook and the surrounding areas for helping me build my dream!