Table of contents
The Square “Only In Dearborn” series highlights five Arab-owned businesses to explore the intersection of identity, community, and entrepreneurship. The business owners share their personal definitions of success and the significance of working in Dearborn, MI, home to the largest Arab population in the United States, as well as the tools that have helped them achieve their success.
Dana’s Paper Boutique
“What makes me excited is I’m not the only one in Dearborn that is a female entrepreneur that also has their family as well. I’ve seen a huge community of a lot of women, and I think women are definitely taking over Dearborn.” — Dana Ali
Dana Ali brings Arab culture into the wedding card industry with Dana’s Paper Boutique.
Square solutions used:
Essential tips and tools to power retail businesses
- The Future of Retail Report
- The Equipment You Need for Your Retail Store
- How to Start a Retail Business
Nady B
“My work ethic, my love for people, my dedication, all of that definitely comes from my Arab roots and the way my family raised me.” — Hanady Hachigian
Hanady Hachigian’s success with NadyB Beauty Bar led her to open an academy for aspiring cosmetic tattoo artists.
Square solutions used:
Essential tips and tools to power beauty businesses
- Your Essential Salon Equipment Checklist
- How to Open a Salon
- 20 Touchpoints That Make for a Great Salon Experience
Uppercutz
“I want to do everything I can to help this next generation jump into the world and not have to face the hurdles that I had to go through growing up.” — Ali Alhashemi
Ali Alhashemi grew Uppercutz Barbershop into a Dearborn staple. Now he’s a mentor to dozens of barbers across three shops.
Square solutions used:
Essential tips and tools to power barbershops
- Opening a Barbershop: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide
- The Art of Balancing Regulars vs. Walk-Ins
- How This Barbershop Used Seamless Tools to Grow a National Brand
Rassem’s Trucking
“Back in the day, my dad didn’t know of any Arabic truck driving school. He was forced to learn the language first, worked these oddball jobs, and then came back to what he knows and has been doing for the rest of his life.” — Danny Alsheikh, Rassem Truck Driving School
Rassem and Danny Alsheikh help Arab refugees start a career in the United States with their trucking school.
Square solutions used:
Essential tips and tools to power service businesses
- How Using Buy Buttons Can Help Launch and Grow Your Business
- How to Write a Payment Reminder Message to a Client
- Client Management Tips That Help You Save Time and Win More Work
IceBurg
“We strive to make everybody comfortable here, and this is why we go to each table. We introduce ourselves. We get to know who they are. We do our best to remember people’s names, acknowledge them by their names as they walk in. It gives a sense of comfort for our customers and for us.” — Tariq Hamed
Tariq Hamed and Hussein Beydoun built IceBurg into more than a halal burger spot. It’s a place for the Dearborn community to connect.
Square solutions used:
Essential tips and tools to power restaurants
- The Future of Restaurants Report
- Your Essential Full-Service Restaurant Equipment Checklist
- How This Bakery Used Technology to Evolve Like a Big Business
