Red Deer Downtown Business Association
Downtown Business Spotlight : Barbershop on Gaetz

This week, we shine our ‘Business Spotlight’ on Barber Shop on Gaetz. Did you know Barber Shop on Gaetz holds the title of being the longest-running barbershop in Red Deer? Originally opening in 1947, this unique shop has been operating under Selene Fraser for the past 11 years and has a very loyal clientele who have supported the Shop even through a temporary relocation following a fire. You can find them in the basement of Evergreen Massage right next to the Club Café until they are able to return to their regular location. Selene would like her clients to know that she’s happy to go mobile for any clients that are unable to access the basement. Read on to learn more!
What is your business?
We are Barber Shop on Gaetz.
When did your business open?
The business originally opened in 1947 and I am the 8th owner, operating for 11 years now.
What makes your business unique?
The customers! We have the best customers and I’m not kidding – I say that every time. I’ve worked in so many shops in my career, I’ve been doing hair for 35 + years and I’ve had the most fun here. Not because I own the place, it’s the people that make it great.
What are some products/services that you offer?
We offer full services for men including hot shaves, colors, and highlights although we don’t do a lot of those. We do a lot of hot shaves. As for products, we offer the Maverick line, Crew line, Carina Organics line, beard oils, anything to do with shaving we supply. Ladies and children’s cuts are also available.
Why did you choose Downtown Red Deer as the location for your business?
I knew a lady who worked here years before. It was a busy little shop with old-timers and farmers. The entire rural community knew about it because 50th Ave was the main road through town. This building has always been a barbershop. The history of it was one of the main reasons I chose the location. I like the downtown core, it’s diverse.
What do you think makes Downtown vibrant?
The people! The small businesses, the ‘mom & pop’ owned places and the cultural aspect.
I love Downtown Red Deer because… It’s central and it’s community. I like the little shops, businesses, and the friendly, non-judgemental, awesome community.
Barber Shop on Gaetz brings a definite charm to Downtown Red Deer. Its unique, friendly atmosphere is a real reason people keep returning! Selene and her team are leaders in their craft and care greatly for their Downtown community. Make sure to stop in for your next hair or beard service!
If you would like to see your Downtown business spotlighted, please contact us at 403-340-8696 or [email protected].
City of Red Deer
Council boosting budget for Downtown Business Association

Council approves 2024 DBA budget, increased investment in events
“The DBA remains steadfast in its objective to build on the growth seen in 2023. The collaboration between The City of Red and the DBA is at all time high and with the pending actions set to be delivered through the Downtown Activation Playbook, I know there are many great things to come that will support our business community and create the thriving downtown we all want to experience,” said Amanda Gould, DBA Executive Director.
“Today Council demonstrated their commitment to their strategic priorities with the support shown to the DBA through unanimous support of the 2024 budget. This mighty Association continues to do great work on a shoestring budget and the 2024 Board of Directors are keen to lend their expertise and entrepreneurial skills to benefit the downtown in its entirety.”
Brandon Bouchard, DBA Board Chair
The DBA’s budget is partially funded through the BIA tax levy, which is collected by The City of Red Deer. Each year, the DBA presents its proposed budget to Council for their consideration. When reviewing the budget, Council considers alignment between the DBA’s downtown priorities and City’s community priorities.
“DBA has constantly hit far above its weight in our downtown, I can’t think of a more supportive messenger of promotion than the team at the DBA, it’s so encouraging to see this strong support for our downtown,” said Mayor Ken Johnston. “I’m encouraged by the leadership and direction of the DBA and look forward to what they have in store for 2024. They continually bring positive initiatives to the downtown even with the constraint on finances.”
The DBA’s total approved budget for 2024 is $775,160, with $277,725 funded through the BIA with the remaining amount funded through items such as grants and contracts. The BIA portion for 2024 is an increase of five per cent from 2023.
The Downtown Business Association has been operating in Red Deer for more than 30 years, serving approximately 350 business owners in the Downtown area. Through partnerships and leadership in advocacy and promotion, the DBA is the catalyst for a vibrant and prosperous downtown that is the place to live, work, play and do business.
Red Deer
What’s Happening Downtown: Holiday Edition!

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