Bryce Ward has always been an artist. Before he became Bryce Tha Barber, the go-to barber for NBA stars, NFL players, and Oscar-winning filmmakers, he was a photographer. That dual passion is now on full display at DuPree’s Barber Studio, his brand-new 1,980-square-foot space that quietly opened last month on the third floor of 55 Grant Ave. in Union Square.

The concept is refreshingly simple yet ambitious: a full barber shop and photography studio combined under one roof. Five barber chairs overlook some of the world’s most expensive storefronts, Yves Saint Laurent, Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino, while a complete photography setup sits ready for headshots, wedding portraits, and event photography. Ward, 43, sees this mashup as the natural evolution of modern barbering. “A haircut, properly understood, is content”, he explained. Clients can book both services in the same appointment window, turning a quick trim into a full content-creation session.

It’s been a 20-year hustle to get here. Ward built his reputation through relentless work, 5 a.m. appointments for tech executives and late-night house calls to athletes’ mansions. His clients now include NBA stars like Andrew Wiggins, Juan Toscano-Anderson, and Jonathan Kuminga, NFL players like Fred Warner and Charvarius Ward, and filmmaker Ryan Coogler. Five celebrities stopped by in the shop’s first three weeks alone.

But Ward’s ambitions extend far beyond celebrity clientele. He’s provided free cuts to pediatric cancer patients at Stanford, partnered with Golden State Warrior Gary Payton II on basketball camps, and is in early discussions about a partnership with the Four Seasons. Perhaps most importantly, he’s working with former NFL running back and current SFPD officer Jahvid Best to launch a community service day offering discounted cuts to first responders, teachers, and essential workers.

“I want the guy at Safeway. I want the fire department guy. I want the kids going to school”, Ward said. “I want everyone to come and feel welcome”.

The location matters too. Sitting above the Financial District with blue-chip tech companies hosting conferences nearby, DuPree’s is positioned perfectly to capture the intersection of business, culture, and community. Ward signed a five-year lease with an option to renew, signaling his commitment to the space. While an official opening celebration is planned for June or early July, clients are already welcome.

Ward’s philosophy is simple: stay committed, stay grinding, and trust the process. “Don’t tap out five seconds before your miracle”, he said, quoting his uncle’s wisdom. For Bryce Ward, that miracle is finally here.