Gentlemen,

There are very few things in life that can speak volumes about your personality and give a
quality impression without a single word being spoken (read post about Mustache’s www.gentlemensavenue.com/mustache-style-and-personality/). One thing within your control is your hair. The hairstyle and quality of the cut can impress people before you even say a word and display confidence, style, attention to detail, masculinity, and grooming habits etc…. If you really think about it hair is a contrast to your face since the texture and color changes, skin to hair. There are 3 factors that I consider when choosing a barber or shop: 1) Vibe, 2) Personality/Attitude, 3) Quality. So as we get ready and groomed for the holiday pictures or any day of the year choose wisely.  

The vibe of a shop is that feeling you get when you walk in the door and the barbers face is either screaming “oh God, I dont want to cut his hair” or “Welcome!”. The “oh God” is because the barber may feel he is too cool to cut your hair or realizes they may take more time to get your style right or they are A-Holes and they will not get my hard earned money. The “oh God” can also be due to the shop’s focus on another style and elitist mentality. On the other hand, the “welcome” reaction makes me feel at home and ready to trust my hair to a capable barber and give them my business.

Secondly, I consider personality/attitude to be important because if you are going to be sitting in the chair for 30 min to 1 hour you should have a decent conversation. I do not mean that you will spill all your family secrets or dirty laundry but you do want to feel like there is some commonality or friendship. When a barber introduces himself and shakes your hand it is recognition of who you are and courtesy. After some time your barber may just say hello to you when you walk in the door because they are busy on a cut and that is understandable but when you approach the chair a handshake makes a huge difference.

Lastly, the quality of a cut is what keeps you going back to the shop and giving them your business.  When a barber takes the time to ask you the details of the cut that reveals pride in their craft because they want to give you what you ask for. Maybe you will sit in the chair and say, “the usual”, “let’s go a lil shorter this time” because you are on the same page. The mutual understanding does not come on the first cut and sometimes it takes two cuts for the barber to understand your hair and style but if they are making the effort and the vibe and personality is good then stick with them. Before you get out of the chair the barber should let you inspect the work to see if you approve and make any adjustments where necessary. Never be afraid to ask questions or bring a picture of your desired style.

I consider barbering to be a craft because there is a tremendous amount of skill required to produce a quality cut. Moreover, the term craft signifies a profession and dedication, not merely a job. Not everyone who cuts hair is a barber. The difference is training and pride in their work not just maximizing the amount of cuts per hour. You may spend time hanging out at the shop shooting the breeze after your cut and have a few drinks while you are there. The barber shop is not only a place for grooming but also a hang out for Gentlemen.

A friend of mine recently said “I love being the town barber! I am: therapist, lobbyist, lawyer, teacher, parent, growchy ol man all in one day” and that is true. A true barber understands that each client is a representation of his craft and a walking business card. If the barber’s craft is worth your money dont ever cheat them on a tip and be generous. 

Gentlemen of tradition and distinction need barbers that are craftsmen and if you are fortunate you will have the same one for years to come. Stay tuned because I will be profiling a few barber craftsmen on future posts.

Mr. M

LYRMBGB!

Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2013 Gentlemen's Avenue