In Fredericksburg, Virginia, a remarkable story of transformation, resilience, and community impact unfolds at Faded & Co. Barbershop. This establishment stands for more than just a place to get a haircut—it represents one man’s journey from adversity to entrepreneurial success and his commitment to creating positive change. Through skilled craftsmanship, educational opportunities, and genuine community service, Faded & Co. has established itself as a cornerstone business that embodies the true spirit of giving back.

Antoine Carey’s path from incarceration to business ownership serves as a powerful testament to the possibilities of second chances and purposeful living. His barbershop has become a place where haircuts are delivered with skill and heart, where aspiring barbers can find education and mentorship, and where community members in need can receive dignity-restoring services. This is the remarkable story behind this Fredericksburg establishment.

Antoine Carey’s life story is one of remarkable transformation. While incarcerated, he made a pivotal decision to pursue barbering, obtaining his license during his time in prison. Rather than allowing his past circumstances to define his future, Carey channeled his skills and experiences into building Faded & Co. Barbershop and Barber Academy in Fredericksburg. His personal journey from incarceration to entrepreneurship serves as an inspiring example of resilience and determination, demonstrating that second chances can lead to extraordinary outcomes when met with dedication and purpose.

Recognizing the power of his story to inspire others, Carey has embraced his role as a community leader and advocate. In 2019, he released the documentary “Fade in Full: The Story of Antoine Carey,” followed by his book “From Whom Much Is Given,” both chronicling his journey and offering hope to those affected by incarceration. Through public speaking engagements and mentorship, he works tirelessly to combat recidivism and break generational cycles of incarceration. His mission extends beyond business success—he’s committed to being “a voice for the voiceless” and restoring hope to those who need it most.

At Faded & Co., clients experience more than just a haircut—they encounter a team of dedicated professionals who prioritize both skill and personal connection. The barbershop boasts a diverse crew of talented barbers, each bringing unique backgrounds and specialties to their work. From Tahj Latney, who recognizes that barbers serve as more than just hair stylists, to Dreama Weaver, who evolved from hobbyist to professional, each team member contributes to the shop’s reputation for excellence. Tia Clark serves as a master barber instructor, while barbers like Jalon Fairchild emphasize the family-like connections formed through their craft.

Services at Faded & Co. are competitively priced and comprehensive, with men’s and women’s haircuts ranging from $40-$45, beard trims at $20, and special rates for children under 12. The quality of these services is evidenced by the shop’s stellar reviews, with clients like Tara H praising their consistent excellence: “Always a pleasure visiting Faded and Co. James is awesome with my son, and my boyfriend doesn’t want any other barber.” Another touching review highlights Antoine’s generosity, noting how he took 30-45 minutes to perfect a foster child’s haircut, even putting on a movie and making the experience special, despite offering the service for free.

Faded & Co.’s impact extends far beyond haircuts through its Barber Academy, which provides valuable vocational training to those seeking careers in the industry. The academy’s approval as a Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) training facility has opened doors for many students who might otherwise struggle to afford education. Through this program, eligible individuals—including adults, dislocated workers, youth, veterans, and those with disabilities—can access grant funding that significantly offsets tuition costs, making career training more accessible to the community.

Perhaps most remarkable is the establishment of the F.A.D.E.D. Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals affected by incarceration. The foundation provides vocational skills training, focusing on barbering as a pathway to economic independence and reduced recidivism. Their community service initiatives include offering free haircuts on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library, as well as special events at local schools and organizations like the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board. These efforts highlight Carey’s philosophy that “being in business is just as much about making a difference as making a dollar.”

The Faded & Co. team consistently demonstrates their commitment to community service through thoughtfully organized outreach events. At Hugh Mercer Elementary School and other local institutions, they provide complimentary haircuts to students and community members in need, creating warm, inviting experiences that go beyond the practical service itself. These events have become known for the joyful atmosphere they create, with barbers and recipients sharing smiles and laughter that embody the foundation’s mission of fostering dignity and connection.

The recent inaugural meeting of the F.A.D.E.D. Foundation’s board marks an important milestone in formalizing and expanding these community efforts. Guided by the quote, “Life always offers us a second chance. It’s called tomorrow,” the foundation is strategically positioning itself to make an even greater impact on reducing recidivism and breaking cycles of generational incarceration. By creating structured pathways to education, mentorship, and employment, they’re working systematically to provide meaningful fresh starts—demonstrating that Faded & Co.’s vision extends far beyond business success to genuine community transformation.