About The Owner
About the Owner – Kelvin “K.D.” Davis
July 1, 2025
Kelvin, “K.D.,” was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, joined the U.S. Army at age 18, and served in the Iraq War in 2010. At the age of 22, K.D. returned from service, settled in Albuquerque, and began attending barber school within two months. He completed barber school at the age of 23 and opened his establishment, Dreams Barbershop, in 2013. Later, he decided to reenter college and complete his degree. He graduated from college in 2017 with an Associate Degree in General Studies, then returned to complete his bachelor’s degree in business in 2019.
K.D. began to take an interest in barbering in 2012 when his youngest daughter was born. He prepared by first completing barber school, talking to other barbers, and watching and studying videos about barbering.“ The unique atmosphere that my barbershop brought to Albuquerque was genuine Southern Hospitality. Being from Louisiana, I consider one of my greatest assets to be my ability to make people feel comfortable, just like family”. Dreams Barbershop was located on Menaul and Louisiana near Coronado Mall. When owning a barbershop, the biggest challenge he faced, aside from overcoming the past COVID-19 ordinance adjustments for barber shops and salons, was to continue motivating and encouraging clients to maintain a positive mindset within 45 minutes or less daily. “I love the challenge because I realize that I may be the only positive force my client may encounter, and a conversation with a caring ear can make a huge impact. The passion that motivated me to pursue this profession was being my own boss; utilizing the skills I have available, doing something I enjoy; supporting others with a listening ear, while making them look fantastic, enhancing their appearance, and seeing the confidence on their face is most gratifying. Making my schedule and providing for my family is another major motivator."
Although the barbershop was doing well, K.D. was not satisfied professionally and desired more in business. In 2021, K.D. identified a need in the community for an event venue, as many had closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In October 2021, Kelvin opened Dreams Event Studio, a full-service event venue located on Osuna Road. Between Wyoming and Eubank in Albuquerque’s Northeast Heights. “Our event venue offers the community a beautiful, clean, budget-friendly, flexible event venue to create memories.” Dreams Event Studio hosts a wide range of events, including weddings, wedding receptions, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, graduation parties, networking events, pop-up shops and vendor markets, memorial services, business meetings, baby showers, bridal showers, and more. “We are truly honored to serve the community and be a part of their most important moments in their lives.”
The biggest challenge Kelvin faces in the daily operations of an event venue is staffing. “At the current time, we do not have employees at the studio. My wife and I often work late nights into the early mornings. As small business owners, we do everything: every role, set up, clean bathrooms, arrange decor items, bartend, sales, break down, and everything in between. Effective time management and communication are a priority.” K.D. relies on his wife and business partner, Amber, to oversee the day-to-day operations of Dreams Event Studio, as she has a professional background in the hospitality industry.
Dreams Barber Supply opened its doors in October of 2022 and is located on San Mateo between Academy and Osuna. K.D. was new to the retail business; however, he is well-versed in barber supplies, having worked as a barber for over 10 years. “At Dreams Barber Supply, we strive to keep the newest and trending clippers, trimmers, products, and tools in stock. As a barber, I get excited unboxing and showcasing every new item we receive.” Currently, Dreams Barber Supply offers a wide range of brands, including JRL, Wahl, Andis, Stylcraft, Oster, Supreme Trimmer, BaBylissPro, Suavecito, Johnny B., Level 3, Black Ice, Mane Tame, and many more, available both in-store and online. Since opening K.D. has scaled the store's inventory to now include over 1,000 items and a wholesale division!
K.D. believes that multiple streams of income are vital to long-term success and plans to step away from barbering in the future. His goal is that Dreams Barber Supply and Dreams Event Studio will facilitate his exit from barbering. He enjoys seeing his business visions come to life, nurturing them at each step along the way. “Once I have a vision for a business, it’s all I can think about until it becomes a reality. I am up late nights doing research and crunching numbers. Once the numbers make sense, I’ll be out with my realtor looking for the perfect location, which may take weeks or even months. I may find the “perfect” location, but then have to walk away from it if I can’t negotiate terms for the building that meet my needs. It can all seem like a daunting process at times, but when it’s all said and done, it’s the most rewarding feeling to open the doors on grand opening day.”
His wife Amber and he have a beautiful, blended family with five children. Their oldest son is a Marine veteran, and another son is a Senior Airman in the Air Force. They also have three beautiful daughters who help him stay grounded. “My wife is truly my backbone and rib. She is an amazing wife, mother, and partner in the business. My family is my driving force”. Advice I'd like to share is always to keep perseverance in your heart and pursue your dreams to the fullest.
Live your Dream,
DG-13
Staff Blogger