Life at Lamy’s: Downtown with Two-Bit Barber Company’s, Tim Keele

Meet Tim Keele, Sedalia’s Barber Extraordinaire

Sedalia holds a special place in Tim Keele’s heart. Born and bred right here in our hometown, Tim’s journey is a testament to the spirit of local pride and entrepreneurship. He’s not just a barber – he’s the creative force behind Two-Bit Barber Company, a beloved fixture in downtown Sedalia.

Photos by Sara Cantrell Photgraphy

The Journey to Downtown

Tim’s career path is a bit quirky, to say the least. After a whirlwind of jobs, from factory worker to railroad adventurer and even car salesman, he found himself in an all-too-familiar situation – stuck in line for a haircut. Tim turned to his barber one day and quipped, “You need to either take appointments or hire more help.” To his surprise, the barber didn’t just give him a haircut; he gave him a life-changing idea: “Why don’t you go to school?”

Taking this barber’s advice to heart, Tim graduated from the Academy of Hair Design in Springfield, MO, in the fall of 2017. Following this, he spent a year fine-tuning his skills at Wolfy’s barbershop before fulfilling his dream of opening Two-Bit Barber Company in 2018.

Downtown Dreams

When Tim envisioned his barbershop, one thing was crystal clear – it had to be located in the Historic Downtown Sedalia. Fond childhood memories of visiting Dick’s Barbershop with his grandpa left an indelible mark on him. He was drawn to the historic buildings, rich history, and the vibrant arts and antique scene that define downtown Sedalia.

For Tim, the heart of any city resides within its downtown core. Thus, his choice was clear – downtown Sedalia was where he wanted to establish his business. Experience nostalgia with a contemporary twist at Two-Bit Barber Company. The vintage-inspired barber chairs, traditional hot lather shaves, and complimentary glass of beer redefine the barbershop experience. Whether it’s a classic haircut or a modern men’s style, Two-Bit is where timeless tradition and modern excellence collide.

Perks of Downtown Living

Downtown Sedalia offers its own unique charm and appeal. Tim appreciates the individual character of the historic buildings that grace the streets. Each building tells a story, and they perfectly align with his vision for Two-Bit Barber Company.

The downtown area is a magnet for a diverse crowd. Visitors at the Downtown Square, sightseers exploring eclectic shops, bar enthusiasts enjoying the local nightlife, and live music aficionados who flock to The Lot – downtown Sedalia has something for everyone. With shows at the Liberty Center and an array of local businesses, it’s the central hub for arts, entertainment, and all things that make Sedalia special.

A Lamy’s Regular

Tim is no stranger to Lamy’s, and when he dines with us at No. 5 Bistro & Bar, he has a classic favorite on the menu – the gigantic burger (his words, not ours). It’s a timeless choice that never fails to satisfy. Whether he’s attending a class reunion or simply enjoying a meal, he savors the unique atmosphere of our establishment.

And when it comes to beverages, these days he opts for a refreshing sweet tea, “and keep em’ coming!”

Two-Bit Barber Company celebrated its fifth anniversary this past December, and we’re thrilled to have a thriving and talented local business, led by Tim Keele, as part of Historic Downtown Sedalia. His dedication to our beloved community is commendable.

Stay tuned for more stories spotlighting the vibrant individuals who make up our extended Downtown Sedalia Lamy’s family. We’re all about celebrating the heart and soul of Sedalia – one story at a time.

Discover more about Sedalia, its people, and the hidden gems of our historic downtown at Lamy’s. Where history loves company.