Meet Chretien Gerada of Pasadena

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chretien Gerada.

Hi Chretien, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started cutting hair in high school as a favor for my aunt. Inside my garage, it wasn’t something I planned on turning into a career—I just saw it as way to make some money. It felt like killing two birds with one stone: I could buy food, and spend time with friends while doing it. But somewhere along the way, I found myself genuinely drawn to the craft. I enjoyed the process, the creativity, and the connection that came with it more than I expected.

What started casually quickly became something I took seriously. I began paying attention to technique, fundamentals, and consistency, and I realized that barbering was more than just a way to get by—it was a skill that rewarded discipline and intention. That curiosity turned into an obsession with learning and improving, and it ultimately set the foundation for everything that came next.

As I grew behind the chair, I also started paying attention to the bigger picture. I noticed how many talented barbers struggled—not because they lacked skill, but because they lacked structure, education, and support. That realization pushed me to think beyond myself. I didn’t just want to be a good barber; I wanted to build an environment where people could grow long-term, both creatively and professionally.

That mindset led to the creation of CREATE Barbershop. From the beginning, CREATE was built around standards, education, and culture. We focused on developing barbers through ongoing training, mentorship, and accountability, while also creating a space that felt intentional and welcoming for clients. Over time, the shop grew—not just in size, but in purpose. It became a place where people came to learn, refine their craft, and build sustainable careers.

Today, my role has evolved from being solely behind the chair to leading a team, teaching, and building systems that allow others to succeed. I’m still deeply connected to the craft, but my focus is on creating opportunities, raising the standard of barbering, and building something that lasts beyond me. CREATE continues to grow as a platform for education, culture, and craftsmanship, and I’m excited about where it’s headed next.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like most things worth building, there were a lot of growing pains along the way. Early on, one of the biggest challenges was learning everything the hard way—through trial, error, and responsibility. I was figuring out the craft, the business, and leadership all at the same time, often without a clear roadmap.

One of the hardest parts was transitioning from being a barber to being a leader. What works behind the chair doesn’t always translate to managing people, setting standards, or building systems. I had to learn how to communicate expectations clearly, create structure, and hold both myself and others accountable. That process came with mistakes, uncomfortable conversations, and moments where I had to step back and reassess how I was showing up.

Another challenge was building a culture that aligned with my values. Not everyone is meant for the same environment, and learning when to invest in someone versus when to let go was difficult but necessary. I realized that protecting the culture and the long-term vision of the shop mattered more than short-term comfort.

There were also financial pressures, endless hours, and periods of burnout where I questioned whether the effort was worth it. But each challenge forced me to refine my approach, tighten systems, and become more intentional about how I built the business. Looking back, those struggles were essential—they shaped the standards, structure, and mindset that CREATE operates with today.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At its core, my work revolves around craftsmanship, education, and building people. While I’m trained in and specialize in precision haircutting and grooming, what I’m most known for today is creating systems and environments that help barbers grow beyond just technical skill. My focus has shifted from simply delivering great haircuts to developing consistent standards, strong fundamentals, and long-term careers.

At CREATE Barbershop, we emphasize education as an ongoing process. That includes structured training, hands-on classes, mentorship, and constant refinement of technique. I’m deeply involved in teaching fundamentals, helping barbers understand the “why” behind their work, and creating accountability so quality doesn’t depend on who’s having a good day—it’s built into the culture.

What I’m most proud of is the team and the culture we’ve built. Watching barbers gain confidence, sharpen their skills, and create stability for themselves is far more rewarding than any individual achievement behind the chair. Seeing people grow into leaders, educators, and professionals has become the most meaningful part of my work.

What sets CREATE apart is intention. Everything—from how we train, to how we communicate, to how we serve clients—is done with purpose. We don’t chase trends or shortcuts. We focus on fundamentals, consistency, and long-term thinking. That approach allows us to maintain high standards while still creating an environment that feels welcoming, supportive, and sustainable for everyone involved.

How do you think about luck?
I wouldn’t necessarily describe my journey in terms of luck. For me, it’s always been rooted in faith and trusting God with the path in front of me. From the beginning, I’ve tried to give my best effort, stay disciplined, and leave the outcome in God’s hands. That perspective has helped me stay grounded through both progress and setbacks.

There were moments that didn’t make sense at the time—closed doors, delays, and challenges that felt discouraging—but looking back, many of those experiences shaped me in ways I couldn’t see in the moment. They forced me to grow, be patient, and build with more intention. I’ve learned to see those moments not as bad luck, but as redirection and preparation.

Faith has given me clarity and peace, especially when things felt uncertain. It’s allowed me to focus on doing the work with integrity and purpose rather than chasing quick wins or comparing myself to others. I try to approach the business as something I’m stewarding, not controlling, and that mindset has helped me build something that feels aligned, sustainable, and meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.create-la.com
• Instagram: Cray.ative

Image Credits
Miles Caliboso