For the past 26 years, the Weymouth barber shop at 1216 Washington Street (Route 53) known as Judi’s Barber Shop has been a local favorite. Recently, the shop has changed owners– and its name.
Andrea L. Howe, from Whitman and Weymouth, is the new owner of the barber shop, but she is no stranger to what was previously known as Judi’s Barber Shop. Andrea joined the team in October of 2006, and recalls, “It was always a lively, fun place to work that came along with a great and generous clientele. Being born and raised in Weymouth, it was a comfortable fit for myself and my customers.”
She recently purchased the business from founder Judi Quatrale, who sold and relocated to be closer to her family. One of Andrea’s first acts was to rebrand the shop with a new logo and a new name – The Chop Shop.
Andrea, who attended Weymouth Vocational Technical where she earned her Cosmetology license, returned to Weymouth from Whitman a few years ago to be closer to family. “I had left Judi’s but when I moved back saw it as a good opportunity to return in 2021 after the pandemic – with the best crew we have ever had!” She began the discussions with former owner Judi Quatrale in late 2023. “Judi approached me about buying the shop; it goes without saying that all of us wanted to keep our jobs and honor our loyal customers with the same great haircuts that Judi’s has been providing for 26 years.”
She continued, “With the support of my amazing family and especially my husband Sean, friends and coworkers, the decision was made.”
She recalls, “The excitement took over but the hardest part by far was a new name and definitely a new vibe. Family needed to be in the name somewhere. This is a family venture for us. Each of my four children have been essential in making this happen. We have tons of families that have been coming in for years. There are “kids” I have done their very first haircut for starting to bring in their kids!”
A motorcyclist herself, Andrea said that she decided to embrace a theme that fits our love of motorcycles and cars that’s been instilled in her since childhood. “It is a part of who we are. Who doesn’t love a cool car or motorcycle? And of course- we chop tons of hair, that is how The Chop Shop Family Cuts was born.”
She said that in the days since the sale, support for the new adventure came in from all directions. “ All of a sudden we were accumulating decor, photos, memorabilia, signs, and ideas from customers, family and friends. This really pulled the shop together. “
The same team of stylists, including Andrea, Loren, Lindsay and Sareva are on hand to greet customers.
She said that future plans include expanded hours to accommodate customers’ busy schedules. They are also looking at establishing online booking, and becoming even more involved in the community. “We are looking at plans to help local kids in need.
Andrea said, “I thank Judi for entrusting me with the ownership of this Weymouth landmark. I feel very fortunate in that we have a great team of stylists and wonderful customers. I’m very grateful for all the well-wishes and support that I have received in these early days and look forward to coming to work every day!”
The Chop Shop is open Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The shop is closed Sundays and Mondays. The Chop Shop is located at 1216 Washington Street (Route 53), Weymouth, MA. To book an appointment, please call (781) 331-5834.
