Published on August 29th, 2024 | by Dr. Jerry Doby

Discover Your Sanctuary: The Kingdom, a Men’s Grooming Lounge, Opens in Blackhawk, California

The Bay Area just got a little more regal. The Kingdom, a cutting-edge men’s grooming lounge and sanctuary, is now open in Blackhawk, California, bringing a new level of self-care to the vibrant East Bay region. Founded by Nicole Rodrigues, a former Oakland Raiderette and globally recognized communications and marketing executive, The Kingdom redefines men’s grooming with a modern twist, honoring timeless traditions while catering to today’s man.

Nicole Rodrigues - RAIDERETTE PIC
Nicole Rodrigues - RAIDERETTE GROUP
Nicole Rodrigues - RAIDERETTE REUNION

As someone who’s worn many hats—whether it was serving in the military, working on construction sites, or navigating the world of business—self-care wasn’t exactly a hot topic in my circles. But looking back, it’s clear that carving out time for ourselves could’ve made the daily grind a little smoother. The Kingdom is the kind of place where men like us can finally embrace self-care without hesitation, in a space that’s been thoughtfully crafted just for us.

A Place Where Tradition Meets Modern Luxury

Nicole Rodrigues and her team have created a haven where men can unwind, recharge, and indulge in services that go beyond the basics. At The Kingdom, you’re not just getting a haircut or a shave—you’re stepping into a world that blends the charm of ancient grooming rituals with today’s comforts. Picture this: Spartans prepping for battle with nail care, Egyptian warriors refining their hair and beards, Samurai honing their grooming skills—all of these traditions have inspired The Kingdom’s approach.

“When men step into The Kingdom, they step into a world where the art of recharging takes center stage,” says Rodrigues. “We combine the charm of a bygone era with modern comforts, creating an environment where men can unwind and embrace the mental health benefits of self-care.”

The Kingdom Chair and Copper Pedi Bowl
Manicured Nails - The Kingdom
The Kingdom Cup
Barber Station - The Kingdom
Hair Cut at The Kingdom

A Personal Mission Turned into a Sanctuary

For Rodrigues, opening The Kingdom is more than just a business move—it’s deeply personal. Drawing from her experiences with professional athletes, like the Raiders, and the well-groomed men in her own family, Rodrigues has always appreciated the value of self-care. Her grandfathers, both strong, hardworking men, took pride in their grooming, and her father, a professional boxer, understood that self-care was essential for mental preparedness.

NICOLE WITH HER DAD
NICOLE WITH HER DAD
NICOLE's PAPA

“The Kingdom isn’t just a place; it’s a sanctuary for the modern man, where he can escape, rejuvenate, feel good, and in turn, do good in the world,” Rodrigues explains.

The Kingdom Experience

Located at Blackhawk Plaza, The Kingdom offers a full suite of services tailored specifically for men’s grooming. From hair and beard care to waxing, manicures, pedicures, massages, and skin care services (including back facials), every treatment is top-tier.

There’s no need to choose between different levels of service—every man who walks through the door is treated like royalty–The Kingdom

Rodrigues adds, “The best thing about The Kingdom is that not only was it designed with today’s man in mind, but we also take the guesswork out of everything and make every treatment premium. Every man who comes here is pampered and leaves feeling good, ready to bring that positive energy back to their families, jobs, and hobbies.”

A Community-Oriented Celebration

The grand opening of The Kingdom is more than just a business milestone; it’s a celebration of community and well-being. Rodrigues, a native of the East Bay, is thrilled to bring this unique blend of tradition and modern luxury to the area that shaped her roots. The Kingdom invites everyone to join in the celebration and experience what it truly means to be pampered in a space designed specifically for men.

In a world where men are constantly expected to be strong and stoic, The Kingdom offers a reminder that taking time for self-care isn’t just okay—it’s necessary. So, whether you’re a man looking to recharge or someone wishing to encourage the men in your life to take care of themselves, The Kingdom is the perfect place to start.

Watch what’s going on with @thekingdomescape below

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Tags: men's grooming, mental health, Nicole Rodrigues, Raiderettes, Raiders, Self Care

About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.