Small Business Week Spotlight: Black Rose Barber Shop
Where Style Meets Inclusivity in the Heart of Ware

In honor of Small Business Week, Country Bank is proud to shine a light on one of our vibrant local business customers: Black Rose Barbershop, owned and operated by master barber Emily Ashman in Ware, MA. With a bold sense of style and a commitment to community, Emily is redefining what it means to step into the barber’s chair.

A Chair for Everyone
“I serve anybody with short hair—men and women,” Emily says with a smile. “If you have short hair, you’re welcome in my chair!” With over a decade of experience in the barbering industry, she officially opened Black Rose Barber Shop in September 2024, bringing her vision of an inclusive, alternative, and female-owned space to life.

Breaking the Mold
Emily’s journey began with a dream of entrepreneurship and a strong desire to offer something different. “Growing up in a middle-class family, working for myself was always a dream,” she shares. “When I was apprenticing, I realized how impactful a welcoming space could be—especially for the LGBTQ+ community. There weren’t a lot of places like that here.” Now, Black Rose Barber Shop stands proudly as a female-owned, alternative barber shop in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

What Makes Black Rose Unique?
“It’s the energy,” Emily says. “Being female-owned in a male industry and offering a unique, alternative style—that really sets us apart.” Her clients not only leave with sharp, stylish cuts, but also with the sense that they’ve been heard, seen, and celebrated.

Smart Money Advice
Her financial advice for fellow small business owners? “Invest back into your business and pay your taxes quarterly. And most importantly—use your resources. Whether it’s an accountant or your bank, don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

A Lifelong Connection with Country Bank
Emily’s relationship with Country Bank runs deep. “Oh my gosh, I’ve had a Country Bank account since middle school!” she laughs. “The support of a local bank and community has been incredible while starting my business. Having a bank believe in you is both inspiring and reassuring.”

At Country Bank, we’re honored to stand beside hardworking, passionate entrepreneurs like Emily Ashman. Black Rose Barber Shop isn’t just a place to get a haircut—it’s a space where individuality is celebrated, and everyone is welcome.

Visit Black Rose Barbershop at 40 E. Main Street Ware, MA, inside of the Fitness Factory or visit them on Facebook at Black Rose Barbershop and experience the difference.

“The support of a local bank and community has been incredible while starting my business. Having a bank believe in you is both inspiring and reassuring.”

Small Business Week Spotlight: Empire Motor Sports Uxbridge, MA
Driven by Passion. Fueled by Community.

This Small Business Week, Country Bank is proud to highlight one of our valued small business customers: Empire Motor Sports, a full-service automotive, motorcycle, and ATV repair shop serving the Blackstone Valley and surrounding Rhode Island area. At the helm is TJ Yacino, whose lifelong love of engines and hands-on experience powers the business every day.

Turning Passion Into a Profession
TJ launched Empire Motor Sports in 2017, but his journey began much earlier. “I always loved dirt bikes and motorcycles,” he shares. After attending Blackstone Valley Tech and Mass Bay Community College for automotive repair, TJ honed his skills during an eight-year tenure as a master technician at Lexus. Eventually, the desire to be his own boss and serve his local community led him to open his own shop.

More Than Just a Garage
What sets Empire Motor Sports apart is its ability to handle a wide range of engine repairs—cars, motorcycles, and ATVs—combined with personalized, small-business service. “We’re not just focused on one type of vehicle. And our customers aren’t just a number. They get the attention to detail you’d expect from a big shop, with the personal touch of a small one,” TJ explains.

Advice from the Garage
When asked to share a financial tip for fellow business owners, TJ keeps it real: “Pay attention to your numbers and do it often. It’s easy to get into hot water if you’re not ahead of things. You can be busy but still running out of money.” It’s a reminder that success isn’t just about being booked—it’s about managing cash flow wisely.

A Banking Partner That Gets It
TJ credits Country Bank with being a true partner in his journey. “They’ve helped me out with loans and consolidation that significantly improved my cash flow. Everyone at Country Bank is super friendly and helpful—it’s great customer service.”

At Country Bank, we’re honored to support hardworking entrepreneurs like TJ and the Empire Motor Sports team. Their dedication to craft and community represents the spirit of Small Business Week—and we’re proud to be part of their story.

Learn more about Empire Motor Sports by visiting them at 160 Ironstone Rd Uxbridge, MA or visit their website at www.empireautorepairs.com

“They’ve helped me out with loans and consolidation that significantly improved my cash flow. Everyone at Country Bank is super friendly and helpful—it’s great customer service.”