Saturday, December 29, 2012

2012:As Cheesy As It Sounds...A Year In Review

    Well here it is folks the end of the year is only a few days away and I figured since all the cool kids are doing these "Best Of..." list I may just as well join the band wagon and do a year in review. This is not in any particular order or by event just some stuff that I have personally payed attention to over the year or been a part of..

    The barber battle invade California!! These hugely popular events that have been going happening on the east coast for several years now are starting to take root in the Golden State. In Long Beach,Ca this past June was the 2012 International Beauty and Barber Expo. At this battle Ray Davila won for "freshest Fade" and "Tightest taper". Oh yeah did I mention he works at Hawleywoods in Long Beach.

   2012 is the year I found The Dollar Shave Club. i am really sure when and where these guys came from but when there video started popping up and my Facebook, twitter and other random social networks I had to check it out. I do not know if there razors are any good but I hear they are F**KIN' GREAT!

    The Man, The Legend, Clipper Educator Extraordinaire Ivan Zoot left Andis Clipper Company to join Marianna Industries. This has had to open up some new doors for his as an educator!

    GoldStar Barbershop  and  Bolings Barbershop in Visalia,Ca both celebrated there first year milestones. Congratulations

    I had the pleasure to finally meet the infamous Mohawk Matt from BOLT Barber and got to be involved in a Discovery Channel/Shark Week event in Venice and Pacific Palisades,Ca. This was one of the coolest things I have ever been able to be apart of and will be grateful for a long time!

   Speaking of Andis in support of there 90th anniversary they released a limited edition and individually number Master in a super clean red finish.

    I joined Covenant Barbershop for the Fresno Tattoo Convention this past year. i always love any time I get to hook up with Luis for any kind of event. They are always fun! Hope I will be there again this year!
Photo from Barber Connection

    Well I guess that is it....There is probably a shit ton of stuff I could find on BING or Google, but all I can say is that all the barbers I know have worked there assess off for the last year keeping shops open, more people are showing interest in going to barber school to learn a proper trade. I want to thank all the barbers that out there that keep us motivated and looking encourage us to look at what we do as more of a craft then a job...Thanks.
Cheers

Monday, December 24, 2012

Here It Is, The Last Review Of The Year: Shiner Gold

    Let me just get this out of the way...Adam Dorsett will no longer be making High Life Pomade products for the public. It will only be available for purchase at Electric Haven Tattoo and Barbershop. As a fan of High Life I want to wish him continued success with Electric Haven Tattoo and Barbershop.

    Shiner Gold Pomade hails from Phoenix,Arizona and yes this is a water-based pomade. The packaging is clean with the bushed metallic tin can with the black artwork. When you open the can you will find a bit of a clear pomade with what looks almost like an amber tint to it. The scent is a coconut that is not over powering, which is nice because coconut can sometimes be to much.

   Now on to the hold...Like all water based pomades you really want to make sure you are using it on dry hair because it will affect the way it holds. When I used it I used it on clean, dry hair but found that by the end of my work day at the shop the hold was starting to fall. This is not a bad thing I just think it means I am going to have to use a little more then I used.

    Now there is one issue I have and that is it is to similar to Grants Golden Brand Pomade out of Seattle, Washington.(see review here). So if you have used Grants then you are going to like Shiner Gold. The texture is a little lighter then that of Grants though.

    From what I am seeing the feedback to Shiner Gold has been super and I wish them a great 2013...If they keep putting out good products they are going to have a long successful career.

     I do not think Shiner Gold has a website yet so you are going to want to get a hold of them via Facebook.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Wishing Everyone A Very Merry Christmas

    So it is Christmas time and I have not been as busy as I would like to be. I know some shops keep wicked busy some do not but we all have to work hard during the holiday season so that our customers look sharp for Christmas pictures and time with the family.

   I am going to be honest about something today. Last week was my birthday and I turned 39 and it was a tough week because not only was the shop I work in really slow and I was feeling like I was going nowhere in the shop I am in, not making enough money to provide for my family...etc.

   Yesterday I had to take a step back and look at one of the above issues (I still got some things to figure out going onto the new year) and that is the amount of money I am making and this is what I realized and I think sometimes anyone in the service industry who also lives on our tips has to remember something. Sometimes we make little or no tips for 1 of three reasons 1) crappy service: I really hope this is not the issue for you because I know I work hard to make sure all my customers are happy. 2) Cheap Bastards!: Welcome to life. Sometimes there are just dudes out there who are just cheap and that is one of those things you can not change.3) We Are All In The Same Boat: The people that come into our shops and sit in our chairs they work just as hard as we do, raise families like we do and we have to appreciate each and every customer.

    So as I finish this I would like to take a minute to thank every person who steps foot into our barbershop here in Visalia,Ca Thank you for your support and your patronage. We would not be who we are without you guys.

   To all the barbers, all the shop out there who work there buts off to provide great service to there customer, take pride in there trade and still continue to love what they do......MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

   Another blog that makes sense as I type it...Cheers! 

Thursday, December 6, 2012

The Devil Is In The Details

   So as a barber our job is to work to provide a great service to the guy sitting  in our chair. The time in that chair should be more then the haircut but everything that goes with it. The conversation, the cut, the straight razor, the bay rum...everything.

   The truth is it is easy to  blow through a haircut and get them out of your chair and take there money and get the next person in your chair. Pushing people through the shop like this does not mean you are going to make more money. When this is how you work it makes it difficult to build those good barber/client relationships that you want to build. I beleive there is nothing wrong with not only giving a good haircut but a good experience in the shop

   Just for the record I am not talking about taking almost 2 hours on a haircut but taking the time to give them a great cut and experience!

   As a barber I do my best to hit all the small things....eyebrows, ears, razor to the neck, bay rum and the massage. These little details make a difference with most guys and even if the gentleman in your chair may not notice the little details you as the barber should still go out of your way for those little things.

   In the end I think the small details are just as important as the haircut itself because we want them to be happy as they leave your shop and look forward to sitting in your chair again in a few weeks.

Friday, November 23, 2012

All The Cool Kids Use Instagram...The Final 5!

    Ok so I was going through my Instagram like I always do and realized I follow some cool people and some really good barber and tattoo artist so I got to thinking why not share a few of my favorite people, shops and tattoo artist that I follow on Instagram with all you guys. So I am going to post my top 10...

5) Mikey Hood (mikeyhood1): Cat person, owner of True Blue Barber and Shave Parlor and cornerstone of the Sacramento hardcore scene. His shopped opened earlier this year and seems he is able to balance barber, shop owner and member of the HOODS.








4)Matt "Hambone"Hamblin (Hambone509): Owner of Boar's Head Tattoo in Spokane, Washington. He is not just a tattoo artist and shop owner but a very good friend of mine. Kiss you bro!









3)Justin Singh (justincommish): Justin is the lead singer of The Great Comission and just an all around nice guy! Daisy thinks he is the coolest dude in the world because he likes comic books!








2)Joe's Barbershop (joesbarbershopchicago1): Joe Caccavella Jr. is a third generation barber and works right along side his dad. So if you are in Chicago area get in and get a cut and shave at Joe's Barbershop.









1)Sailor Jerry (SailorJerry): It's Sailor Jerry...Nothing else to say!!! I love there rum and Sailor Jerry Tattoos!!





Thursday, November 22, 2012

Reality Tv has Invaded The Barbershop!!

    What does Tommy Guns NY and Levels Barbershop have in common (and it is not that they are both from NY? Is it because they are both barbershop? Nope!

    The one thing that these two barbershops that are so different from each othe have in common is that they have both been featured on reality television in the last few weeks.

    If you watch Ink Masters on Spike then you will have seen Tommy Gun NY as they played host to the "Flash Challenge" a few weeks ago. The flash challenge was all about straigth lines. This week the tattoo artist had to put down the machines and pick up a different kind of machine....clippers. The tattoo artist had to do a design in the hair of their "human canvas"

   I will be honest, this was kind of painful to watch because you can tell that some of these people do not know there wat around a set of clippers. At least it was an entertaining episode. To watch the full episode go to Spike TV.
   
    Now on to Harlem which is home to Levels barbershop. Levels has made a name for itself as a top notch shop and a major player in the barber battle scene. Now enters Richard Hammond.

    Most people will know Richard Hammon from the hugely successful BBC show Top Gear. He now has his own show called "Crash Course" where he steps into a job and tries to learn as much as he can in one day. Richard gets to spend a day at Levels.

    He got to do a couple of haircuts starting with a "ceaser". he learned the differnce between a "light ceaser" and a "dark ceaser". The owner of Levels to him to a barber supply shop to get his own tools as well. When coming back to the shop they had him actually do a couple of Level regulars.

    Kamal Nuru and the staff at Levels were definitely good sports and so was Richard because boy was he awkward!!

    I get excited to see real barbershops on tv. Maybe time for me to pitch my barbershop idea to the Travel Channel. We will see!

Saturday, November 17, 2012

All The Cool Kids Use Instagram...Part 1

   Ok so I was going through my Instagram like I always do and realized I follow some cool people and some really good barber and tattoo artist so I got to thinking why not share a few of my favorite people, shops and tattoo artist that I follow on Instagram with all you guys. So I am going to post my top 10...The first 5 today and part 2 next week....Enjoy and feel free to share your favorites as well. Also note the kids in a few of these pictures....We love our kids!!


10) Omar Rubio (JEDIXLESS): Omar is a young tattoo artist living up in San Jose, California. He is a young dad husband. He is one of those artist that you know is going to be successful because he is going to learn everything about what he does from making machines, ink and everything that goes along with being a great tattoo artist.






9) Luis Orosco (Master_Barber): Good friend, talented barber and owner of Fresno,Ca's COVENANT BARBERSHOP. Been in business for a few years now and works hard, loves his family and his job.








8) Franks Chop Shop (FranksChopShop): One of my regulars got to visit FCS during the summer and told me it was dope. I have been a fan of FCS and there caps for a while. I finally got my own FCS cap last time I visited the New Era store in LA. Check out there NYHC snapback collection now available






7) Jan Hella (therebelrouser): Jan Hella is barber student extraordinaire. He runs The Rebel Rouser blog and I think he is going to be a successful barber when he is done and in the shop. he is developing a niche of his own...So look for him!







6) Dylan Johnson (Kid_Ridiculous): Dylan Johnson is a barber at Long Beach, California's SYNDICATE BARBERSHOP and also a member of the band Sidepipe Motorbike. he is a dad and a hell of a barber. Make an appointment next time you are in LB!!






Final 5 next week!!!

Monday, November 12, 2012

Ho, Ho, Holy Crap....The Holidays are on us!!

    So my annoyance started last week when I went to the market to get some stuff for the wife to bake cupcakes and noticed that the aisle that holds all the holiday was already putting Christmas candy and they had not removed all the Halloween candy. At this moment I knew I was in trouble...I am never ready for the holidays, let alone Christmas!

   This weekend I will be getting the shop hours for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years all figured out. Then I need to find some ways to get the regulars in but plus try to get some new heads in the door....Do not forget the gift cards, gotta hustle those gift cards!!!

   It is Christmas time so that means get those Christmas cards together for your clients. Seriously, customers love Christmas cards especially if you are sending them something that no one else is. They appreciate those things. If you need a dope Christmas card to send to your clients contact my good friend Jeff Allison Trust me he does great work.

   Does your shop offer gift cards/certificates if not you probably should  because as I saw last holiday season they do sell well if you hustle them enough. They are easy to buy for dads and sons for stockings. Also try to put together some gift packs that you can sell as well (shave kits, pomade stets...etc.).

    The truth is I hope everyone has a great and successful holiday season. Keep working hard, continue to give your customers your best.

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Just One Of Those Days....How To Fix a Mistake

    We as barbers and stylist every now and then have one of those days where in the end you know you made a mistake. You get that phone call from a customer complaining about their haircut (you always hope they are polite about it, but more often then not they are usually on the rude side). Last night was one of those nights for me. My last haircut of the evening was a girl who came in asking for a faux hawk.

    The question is how do you handle a disappointed customer? Dealing with an upset customer sometimes takes kid gloves because some people take a bad haircut personally. Some people (mainly guys) take a bad haircut with a grain of salt but others want it dealt with and quickly and more importantly I think upset customers want to make sure we as prefessionals are paying attention and listening to what they are asking for.

    So here are my suggestions in dealing with a upset customer: 1) Listen to them! I get it, it is easy to just kind patronize them but make sure you know why they are upset. 2) Get Them Back in the chair. If you are the one who made the mistake do your best to get them back in YOUR chair so you are the one fixing your mistake and you can learn from your own mistake. If you can not get them back in your chair just make sure you get them back in your shop! 3) Do not forget to apologize. Sometime a sincere apology can go a long way. 4) This is my personal opinion so you do not have to agree with me on this one: Do not give them there money back! Offer them a discount to come back but the truth is we are trying to make a living, too! If you gave every person back there money who was not happy for one reason or another we would go broke! There are those out there that you just can not make happy.

    In the end all we can do is our best and accept the fact that even the most experienced barber/stylist has an occasional bad haircut and we just have to treat our customers professionally.

Sunday, November 4, 2012

MOVEMBER Kick-Off

   So Thursday was one of my longest days ever. Started with having to be at the barbershop at 4 am to get ready for the local news channel who came by for the morning to cover the MOVEMBER.

   We worked until around 5 pm and then closed up the shop to get ready for the MOVEMBER Kick-Off party and then opened the doors around 7:30. I did 5 shaves straight, Evan from Bolings Barbershop (Visalia,Ca.)  also joined us for the festivities. He did 6 maybe 7 shaves. The owner did two haircut (for some reason) and shop apprentice did three shaves and three haircuts (again, for some reason). My buddy LJ Lara from Pizanos help me get a keg of New Belgium for the event and we had a ton of dope give-a-ways from Soapbox Gypsy and Pin-Ups Against Cancer and a few goodies from our own shop.
Movember & Sons-Frankie The barber with the Mclaughlin's

   So in the end apart from a few small issues the whole night went well. People seemed to enjoy themselves and the fact that so many people came together in support of a good cause, listened to some great music and had a good time.

   Someone asked me why I chose to do an event for MOVEMBER and the reason is that when there is a charity that not only effects so many men but that can be so closely tied to what we do as barbers you get involved. If you are interested in donating you still can by going to Team Barber Collective.

   Thank you everyone who came and thank you for your support. Until next year!!


Thursday, October 18, 2012

Been a busy couple of weeks..

   So things have been crazy. The barbershop has gone to commission so I am working my ass off a little more then normal. Trying to find ways to not only make money, get my name out there a little more and do some cool stuff in the community while I am here! Which leads me to November 1st.

  I am excited to to be involved in MOVEMBER Campaign this year. my work is playing host to a Movember Kick-Off and Shave party. I really wanted to do this last year but the shop had just opened up, but this year I got on top things super early. The chance to do something for a good charity and hopefully help bring in some new business.

    Tomorrow we are closing up shop early and we have a grooms party coming in for haircuts and shaves. The groom is getting married on Saturday. My boy Luis called me up today because he needed a hand with a grooms party on Saturday.

   I am excited that I am going to be busy over the next couple of days because of guys getting married. I think guys getting married are an up-tapped source of income and more importantly getting the chance to take part in the most important day of a mans life (next to them having a kid). Salons always set up at bridal events maybe it is time for barbers/barbershops to show up at events to target men for weddings.

   Well I am going to call it a night, maybe I will have some photos to post form the weekend. Keep working hard, take care of your clients and take pride in what you do!

Cheers!

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Speed v. Efficiancy: It All Come In Time

Filling a chair at Covenant Barbershop
    So today I want to talk about an issue that affects everyone in the hair industry (barbers and cosmos) and that is finding the fine line between speed and efficiency. 

    When I got out of barber school I knew one thing and that was to become the barber I wanted to become was going to take time and experience. Unfortunately right out of school it seemed like everywhere I was working was expecting me to be 100% on point but I was either to slow or just not very good yet.

    When I moved back to California the first shop I worked at (I have only worked in a couple of shops since coming back to CA) was a chop shop. The shop only charged $4.50 so to make any money you had to work your ass off!! The guy who was cutting hair next to me would crank out 30+ haircuts in a day. Just because this guy was fast did not mean he was very good.

    I have now been at my current shop almost a year and in the time I have found my speed get better in my haircuts but more importantly the quality of my haircuts have gotten better. Am I as good I would like to be...No. Will the time come where I want to be....Yes.

    When you get out of school and get behind the chair realize that in time the speed will come but it is more important to work on efficiency because being able to do good haircuts or color is what is going to keep customers in your chair. The speed will come in time and you will begin to notice it.

    On a final note....To the bosses, owners, master barbers, be patient with the  new guy behind the chair because you used to be that kid. You never know you may have the next Ivan Zoot behind that chair!!

   

Saturday, September 22, 2012

5 Days of Pomade-Day 5: Jan Hella-The Rebel Rouser

 (So when deciding who I wanted to give us there top 5 list I knew that Jan Hella (barber student extraordinaire and in charge of www.theRebelRouser.com). I knew asking him I was not going to get a list but a full blog post, since that is how we roll! I really want to thank everyone who was involved in this, it has been a blast!)

    Since the start of www.TheRebelRouser.com, people from all over the world have asked me "what's your favorite pomade?" Unfortunately, I don't have one! With the wide variety we currently have on the market, as well as up and coming brands, it's hard to pick a favorite. Throughout the duration of blogging, I've learned to make certain pomades work best for me, more-so than the others. So, here's my Top 5 Go-To Pomades:
(In no particular order.)

1) Dax High & Tight Awesome Hold: A lot of people have somewhat turned away from the heavier pomades; me included. So when I tried Dax High & Tight Awesome Hold for the first time, I knew I found my preferred alternative to their strongest pomade- Dax Wave & Groom- which used to be my definite go-to, when I as looking for hold. Being just a kick lighter, a lot more malleable, with a killer Sandalwood scent to boot, Dax High & Tight Awesome Hold is a great addition to anyone's arsenal, and can be found at www.ImperialDax.com

2) Mr. Ducktail: If the name doesn't sound familiar, you probably haven't been doing this for too long. But, no worries, that's what we're here for! Long story short, Mr. Ducktail is an amazing barber from France, that has moved shop to England, and still has cult following, for his barbering & styling skills, as well as his pomade! His grease is a medium weight pomade, that is seemingly lighter than most, but still manages to style amazing pompadours, as seen on his Facebook page. Plus, it smells like a cola, how can you go wrong with that? Available at www.HairgumUSA.com

3) Royal Crown Pomade: One, if not, THEE pomade that keeps Elvis-Pompadour-Enthusiasts in limbo, it's hard to not have a tin or five in hand! With many pomades getting heavier and heavier, light and greasy pomades are being left behind. Think about it folks, if quite possibly Elvis used it, why shouldn't we! Being thicker, with a much more pleasant scent than its readily available counterpart- Royal Crown Hairdressing- Royal Crown Pomade is definitely the better of the two to pick up. Unfortunately, it's not often you will see the pomade next to the hairdressing. So when you come across it, BUY IT!

4) Grant's Golden Brand: Now, I'm not going to get into the whole, "water-based pomades are not grease!!!" Well, no shit. Grease + Water = DUH. But, Grant's has been one brand that doesn't only offer a range of water-based pomades, but amazing customer service. It's hard to go wrong with either of their products. Plus, they keep moving forward, and have more products on the way! Check em out at www.GrantsGoldenBrand.com

5) Tres Flores: As I've mentioned- light and greasy pomades are being left behind, and Tres Flores is one of them! While it leaves some with a bad taste in their mouths, it leaves many with fond memories of their fathers and grandfathers, barbershops, or even sketchy times... You know who you cats are! This stuff is as close to a classic pomade as you're going to get, aside from Royal Crown, of course.) Light, relatively thick, and most definitely greasy, this stuff is definitely worth having on hand, even if you just use it to add shine to a heavier pomade. Should be found at Mexican markets, CVS, or Asian Supermarkets.

Well, folks, I hope you enjoyed this little tidbit of my go-to's. Hopefully, you'll add some of these to your rotation and find some joy in em.
Until the next time,
Pomp Hard!
- Jan

Friday, September 21, 2012

5 Days of Pomade-Day 4: Noe Hernendez

(Noe Hernandez originally comes from Chicago but now calls Las Vegas his home. He is Master Barber for Truefitt and Hill and an official for roller derby. I figured what better person to get feedback on pomade then a real barber who is smarter then me!!)
      Top 5 .. 1. Mr Ducktail hairgum @ hairgumusa.com 
                     2. Acme hair pomade @ the atomic boutique 
                     3. Black and White genuine pluko hair dressing @ ball   beauty.com
                     4. Sweet Georgia Brown Original @ sweetgbrown.com 
                     5. Dax high and tight awesome hold @ the grease shop.com
    And for thin hair                 1. Truefitt and Hill pomade @ Truefitt and hill.com
      2. Suavecito regular @Suavecito.com 
     

    Thursday, September 20, 2012

    5 Days of Pomade-Day 3: Fabian Ponyboy Rodriguez

    (Fabian is involved in the SoCal chapter of Greaser Social Club and since I am also apart of GSC I thought I would get someone involved from the GSC. So when I asked Ponyboy his top 5 this was what he had to say.-Frankie The Barber)

    Black Jack Pomade
       I have lame answers tho....sorry. Eloy at OLD FASHIONED BARBERSHOP in Vegas carries LAYRITE. The boys over at STAY GOLD in Fontana carry SUAVESITO. I use MURRAYS or DAX (sold pretty much anywhere) with a tad of either ROYAL CROWN or Mike Moose' BLACK JACK. Other than that Im a hit n a miss (told u my answers would suck). I pretty much stick with what works. They've been working for bout 20 years now. BUT BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR GREASERS SOCIAL Clubs very own pomade. GOD willing, it should be coming out early next year....thanks.
    Royal Crown Hair Dressing

    Wednesday, September 19, 2012

    5 Days of Pomade-Day 2: Chops Barbershop

    (Chops Barbershop is located in Harrisbug,PA and coming from the west coast I thought it would be a good idea to see what is going on out on the east coast.)

         It's impossible to find ANY on the East Coast unless you go into the major cities...Philly, DC, NY....that's why I carry so many. Sometimes you get lucky but most times you have to order online.
    Top five:
    1. Dax
    2. Dr. Rubens
    3. High Life (Adam makes it impossible to order - no wholesale)
    4. American Greaser Supply
    5. Suavecito (I hate to include a water-based pomade but this stuff can compete with any petro-based pomade. It's cheap, good customer service and it takes about 1.5 days from order to doorstep)

    Tuesday, September 18, 2012

    5 Days of Pomade- Day One: Frankie The Barber

        Io as you have guessed it for the next 5 days I am trying to get some regulars in the hair and pomade game to give us there top 5. You know, those cans of pomade that go everywhere with them. That go to for those special occasions. I figured I would start the week off with my top 5!! For me my top 5 is in no particular order.

    1) Suavecito Pomade - Ok let the death threats begin. I understand that alot of people hate calling this a pomade but the truth is the hold is good and when you have a wife she sometimes appreciates the fact that there are no grease stains on the pillow cases!

    2) Murray's Super Light - I stumbled across  Murray's Super Light on accident and evern since I will order a couple cans every few month. Shine and easy to comb through.

    3) AGS 40 WT - AGS holds a soft spot in my heart. I used to drive down to Fullerton just so I could get a couple of cans. Grease and a toy....like Crackerjacks for greasers!!

    4) Dr.Rubin's - The Dr.Rubin's is quickly becoming a favorite of mine....Easy to use and a smells good. Even the wife likes it!

    5)Uppercut Deluxe Monster Hold - This is my heavy hold pick. A heavy wax that does the job!

    So there it is my top 5. Tomorrow I got Chops Barbershop chiming.

    Thursday, September 13, 2012

    Taper & Fade.....Cool reading material coming soon!!

    .
       So I know I have posted about this before but as they get ready to wind down (13 days left to be exact) I thought I would post again.

       I remember first seeing this project shortly after it's launch back in July and I will be honest kind of forgot about it until back in August when I had the pleasure to meet and spend a few days with not only the staff of BOLT Barber but Sammy Corrado and Trevor Penna.

       When I first read about the book I thought it was just a look book for BOLT Barber, but as I talked to Trevor and Sammy more about the book I began to realize that it is more then just cool haircuts from a cool barbershop in Los Angeles but it is about the culture ot the barbershop.

       This 128 page book is not going to be like the crappy style books you see at normal salons or the corporate salons. Taper and Fade will show the everyday man and the latest rage in hair. Taper & Fade: Los Angeles will not only be a collection of current hairstyles for men but offer tips on how to put more swagger in your step.

       I have put my money where my mouth is. Right after I got back from LA I made sure I committed to this project and hope to see other do so as well, especially barbers. A book like this is good for us

    Yeah, that's me after a long day of cutting in Venice

    Thursday, September 6, 2012

    Change is Coming

       So sitting around the house getting ready to head to the shop for another day. I will be honest my work weeks become hit and miss. Some days I will be busy more often then not I am slower then I would like. I have been grateful that I have been working an hourly wage but I see that coming to an end soon.

       If you are a barber (or even a hairstylist) you know that an hourly wage shop is very, very rare. You either are paying rent or commission. Hourly is great if you find it and as a your barber/stylist you are making a paycheck while developing you chops. But here is my question: Does working on a commission statues open more opportunity for you as a barber/stylist to be more successful not only financially but professionally?

       The truth is I do not think there is an easy answer to this question. I think the key to being successful as a barber working on a comission is 1) Is you shop owner keeping your hands tied when it comes to trying to build business and make money and 2) What are you doing  to get yourself out there to the public? and  3) Are you willing to work....I mean seriously start putting the time in your shop like you need to?

       Let's talk about the guy who owns the shop...If you are working as an hourly wage your hands are tied. You have to ask permeission for every thing you do (promos, prices, hours you work...etc) but as a comission barber your hands should not be tied and you should be in control of what you do but is your shop owner in charge of what you do. Do you still have to ask permission for every move you make with your own clients.  You need to take control of your business!!

       Questions 2 and 3 have the same answer...Your success is all up to you!! From your skills to getting people in the shop. If you are not willing to out the time and work in your business is not going to grow and you will never make the money you know you can make. It is your responsibility to take pride in what you do because it will show in not only your work but your business!!

       So as my shop gets ready to make changes in the next few weeks it will be my time to really strp up and take control of my future, my business and my craft!!

    Friday, August 24, 2012

    Murphy's Traditional...An experiment

       So after my post about pomade makers and those who claim to make handcrafted pomade but in all actuality they are having others make it for them I decided to go through the process of making my own pomade.

    BeesWax from Tower Health
       Murphy's Traditional is what I am calling my pomade for this project. So the first thing I did was spend a ton of time looking for recipes on a pomade and surprisingly enough I did not find as many as I thought I would. So after finding a base idea I needed to figure out what I wanted it to smell like and how heavy I wanted it.

       So I decided to work on two weights...A medium hold and a heavy hold so I hit up Tower Health Food in Fresno,Ca and picked up a couple of small bags of beeswas pellets (melts fairly easy and evenly) and a small bottle of orange oil for scent (this is going to be the medium hold). For this experiment I hit up my local dollar store and purchased several cans of petro (buck a piece, can not beat that).

        So finally get a some time after I get done with my day at the barbershop grabbed metal mixing bowl, some crappy beat up measuring spoons and a pot of hot water. Melt down the wax, added the petro and orange scent then grabbed a couple of empty can I had laying around the house poured the ingredients in the cans and let it cure for the night.

        Next day I checked out my little concoctions and had to figure out what I needed more of. Melted them back down added a little more petro in both, added more orange in the medium weight and had to add some more rum to the heavy weight (yes, I said rum. Sailor Jerrys to be exact). Let it cure again over night.

    First Can Of Murphys Original
       I got to work this morning with my small can of the medium weight (orange scent) and used it in my own hair and so far it is holding in a fashion that I was hoping for. Not super hard but still easy to manipulate. The heavy weight still has some tweaking to be done. One of the keys it to keep track of everything you are doing....Write that crap down!!!

       So what is to become of this project...My own Frankie The Barber brand pomade. Who know, but I will tell you this a huge thumbs up to all you guys out there putting out good product. Keep up the good work. We appreciate it!


    Thursday, August 16, 2012

    Shear, Shave, Shark!!!! Best weekend ever!!

        When you think of a trade doing guest spots you think of tattoo artist you usually do not think of a barber. This weekend I had the opportunity to do a guest spot in Southern California with the staff of BOLT BARBER and BOLT On Safari.

    Me and Mohawk Matt
        The event called "Shear,Shave,Shark" was four days of free haircuts and Shark Week goodies held in DTLA, Long Beach Aquarium, Venice Beach and Gladstones 4 Fish in Pacific Palisades. The event was in conjunction with the Discovery Channels "Shark Week".

        Getting the chance to work with other barbers in a whole new setting is a good thing to do once in a while. It gives you a new perspective on what you do and where you do it. For me this trip gave me a whole new perspective on myself and reminded me that I am a good barber. More importantly I am a better barber then some people give me credit for. I may not be the greatest barber yet but one day I will get there!!

    Working Hard At Gladstones
          The locations I got to cut hair at could not be beat. Seriously, the ocean is one of the best views on the planet. Venice Beach was cool with some odd characters. I was able to meet some interesting people and seeing some out right odd kats!!

        Gladstones was amazing! Did not do as many haircuts here but met some cool people. The staff of Gladstones were AWESOME!! There kitchen staff all came out and got haircuts, fed us and totally got what "Shear, Shave,Shark" was all about.

        When you get an opportunity to do things like this...take them and work just as hard for them as you would at your own work. You never know what may happen.

    Work station At Gladstones
        I need to thank my boss for letting me take the day off to be apart of this event. More importantly I need to thank Mohawk Matt and all those involved in "Shear,Shave,Shark" for welcoming me into there tribe. I do not think you guys realize how much I not only enjoyed my time with you guys but how much I needed the new perspective on what I do....THANK YOU!!!


    BOLT On Safari


    Friday, July 27, 2012

    Yay for Social Networking!!

        In the time I write this I will have checked my e-mail, Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr and maybe even my Pintrest. I may not get to update my blog as often as I would like but I do regularly check and post on all  my other "networking" sites because I have learned that social media/networking is an important tool for success of business.

        I began to realize how important these sites are when I was promoting hardcore shows. I started to notice that as important as flyers were more kids were using Myspace, Facebook///etc/ to find out what shows were going on and where. It is a cheap form of marketing and when you know who your target is then using these sites become easy. If you are a barbershop owner you should have a blog connected to your shops website this way your customers know what is going on in your shop. I do have a suggestion and it is this...If you are business owner you should do your best to separate your personal networking pages from your business pages.

        I am grateful for Facebook and Twitter because this summer it has proven the important ace of using it as a networking tool between you and other people within your industry. This summer an opportunity has been given to me to cut hair at a huge special event in Los Angeles (will be sharing all the info next week...It is gonna be huge!). This landed in my lap because of connecting with others using Twitter, Bangstyle and this blog.

        What it comes down to is this...if bands, tattoo artist, hairstylist and other can make social networking work in there benefit why can't we in the barbershop do the same.

        Below are all the links to my sites....Enjoy!!
              Frankie The Barber GSC
              Frankie The Barber on Twitter
             Frankie The Barber on Tumblr
             Frankie Reiland....My personal Facebook

    Saturday, June 30, 2012

    Imperial Barber Grade Products

        So if you are a product company and your tag line is "MADE TO WORK: Made By Barber.Made To Work.Made In The U.S.A" you better have a good product!!

        I have been one who believes that some of the best products come from the people who use them and I am not talking about the consumer but the barber. A perfect example is the barber who makes his own pomade is not just about haveing something to sell and make money on but they have found it important because there is something in there pomade that they have not found in other products. This really how IMPERIAL came into being.

        When my package of IMPERIAL samples showed up I was really excited to see what all they were kind enough to send me. I cracked open the envelope and there was a pre-shave oil and aftershave.There was also in little what seemed like 1/2 ounce conatiners of there pomades styles including there original "Classic Pomade", "Fiber Grease", "Gel Pomade" and their "Matter Pomade Paste". They also sent me a sample of there "Pre-Shave Oil" and the "Bergamot After-Shave"
    .
        So I think I am going to start with the shave products. I use a pre-shave oil not only on myself but on all my customers who come into the shop for a shave. This lavender scented oil is not overly greasy and is great before the straight razor shave and a hot towel or you can use it when you are shaving at home with (or without) shave cream. I am kind of torn on the aftershave for one reason only...I am a sucker for bay-rum aftershave!!! The great thing about this aftershave is that it has a soothing element that a lot of aftershave do not have.

        Not to tackle the hair products. We have 4 solid products a couple od them I like and a couple I will not use a lot. I have never been a fan of pomade creams or paste and it is mainly because of the lack of hold. Today I did use the Cream pomade on a kid at the shop and it is alright for that messy short look. I did not think I was going to like the Fiber Grease especially since it is not a super stong hold  but it seems to be pretty pliable. Gel Pomade is a medium hold but I was not a fan of the texture. The Classic Pomade is where it all started is water based with a strong hold. The texture is a little different then that of other water based pomades and is a little stiffer as well, but still a solid pomade.

        The only thing some people may have issue with is the price point. The pomades are all around $20, the aftershave is $10 and the shave oil is $12. Do not let this turn you away from at least trying out some of there products. For more information hit up the IMPERIAL site or there home shop RAZORBACKS BARBERSHOP.

    Thursday, June 7, 2012

    Gotta New Toy- Andis ProFoil Shaver

       Ok so one of the regular tools we are needing as barbers these days is the electric shaver especially for those who who like that bald fade.

        When trying to decide exact what shaver I wanted to get my hands on I started by using my buddy Victors "Norelco" style shaver. It gets a nice clean shave on the head but I always felt I was having to not only put a lot of pressure on the head but kept going over and over the shaved area.

        Before purchasing the Andis shaver I Ivan Zoot (former educator for Andis) how it sells and he told me that at Bonner Brother they pretty much sold out of the shaver.

        When MD Barber came by the shop I asked what he had and he told me he had the Andis ProFoil Shaver so I went a head and grabbed it (avg. $48.00). This is a cordless shaver that holds a good long charge. It cuts using two titanium foils and it also has a slide up trimmer for side burns.

       This is a cordless, lite weight shaver that holds it's charge for a several hours. One of the things I like about the shaver is its shape. The "t-shape" makes it comfortable to use and not bulky. It allows you to work up and down or side to side when doing bald fades or full head shaves.

        I used it the other day when cutting my dads hair and normally I use a straight edge but since I did not have my razor I pulled this shaver out. After mowing it down with #5 blade on my Osters the Andis ProFoil shaver got a super close and clean shave which is what we are always looking for.

       I have one thing that the jury is out on and that is doing full face shaves with it. I have used it on myself and for my personal use it does irritate my skin (that is why I have never owned an electric razor).

    For more info hit up Andis.

    Monday, May 21, 2012

    Handcrafted Pomade my ass!!

        (Let me just get this out of the way. This is not directed at companies that make huge amounts of pomade, companies that make water based pomade or major companies that manufacture pomade. This is directed towards people out there that claim to be making "handcrafted pomade".)

        I love pomade. The greasy, grimy stuff that leaves a stain on your pillow and then your wife takes away tour pillow case until you guys spend the money on black pillow cases and sheets. I did not have pillow cases up until about 4 years ago (we have been married 15 years). I have been using Murry's, Royal Crown. AGS and what ever cool pomade I stumble across.

        So this all started when i recently purchased a can of pomade from a local barbershop and late in the smae week I received two cans of pomade in the mail and there was only two differences....can/lid was a little different and they were sealed with different color electrical tape.

        There are a lot of pomade companies out there not just in the U,S, but world wide and some of these guys are really making the effort to make there own pomade. But what I am starting to find is that instead of making there own shops, barbers...etc. are buying pomade from other companies and just putting there label on them. I personally think that is kind of cheating.

       I think pomade outfits that are selling cans of "there" pomade to others without labels should require that their name should be on the label somewhere saying "manufactured by". If you did not make that pomade do not take credit for it....seriously. It is not your pomade. Listen, if you are going to have a 2nd party make your pomade spend the extra cash and work with them on a recipe so you are doing something different.

       If you are going to say you are making your own pomade you better be. Take the time to create something you are proud of. Your name is going to be on that can. It is your product that you want people to buy, use and talk about. The thing about doing handcrafted pomade is it is all you and no one else.

       Here is my last statement. If you are selling pomade under the guise of "handcrafted pomade" and the truth is you are not making it yourself....you are ripping off everyone who is buying it. Think about that.

       Below is a list of links that I know are making there own products by hand. Check em out:
    Blackjack Pomade
    J.M Mulcahy Soap Co. (great shave soap)
    High Life Pomade (I know for a fact it is handmade...My best friend worked in the barbershop in AZ.)
    Covenant Barbershop (Luis makes his own bay rum aftershave and tonic)

       Anything you want to add to this list...hit me up! Take pride in what you do from the cut to the pomade you promote and make.

    Cheers,
    Frankie The Barber



















    Saturday, May 19, 2012

    Something to motivate you

       If I could pick someone to learn under I would pack a bag and head to England to spend as much time as I possibly could under Dale Ted Watkins and Sid Sottung. There are several people in the states that I would love to learn from but for some reason I am a bit drawn to these guys.

       Recently Dale Ted Watkins gave a speech at the great Barbers Surgeons' Hall in London. Below I posted his speech typo's and all. The reason I am posting his speech is because I think it is a very moving and really something we as barbers should always keep in mind about who we are as professionals.

       Dale thank you for giving me something to think about. I hope when I grow up I am as cool as you.
    Cheers,
    Frankie  



    "GOOD AFTERNOON LADIES AND GENTLEMEN

    MY NAME IS DALE TED WATKINS


    I CONSIDER IT A GREAT HONOUR


    TO BE INVITED HERE TODAY BY THE BBA
    TO SHARE MY THOUGHTS AND EXPERIENCES WITH YOU

    IN THIS WONDERFUL AND HISTORIC PLACE

    THE BARBER SURGEONS HALL

    IM HERE TODAY BECAUSE I WAS ASKED THE QUESTION WHAT INSPIRES ME!

    SO I’D LIKE TO SHARE MY JOURNEY OF HOW AND WHY IM STANDING INFRONT OF YOU TODAY
    WHY DID I GET INVOLVED IN MENS HAIRDRESSING WHAT INSPIRES ME!? WHERE DO I GET MY INFLUENCES FROM ?

    AFTER MY 3 YEAR APPRENTICESHIP AND YEARS WORKING IN UNISEX SALONS I DECIDED , I WAS ONLY EVER GOING TO BE OK! AS A LADIES HAIRDRESSER
    BUT I DIDNT WANT TO SPEND MY WORKING LIFE JUST BEING OK! A WISE MAN ONCE SAID!

    “IF YOU ALWAYS DO WHAT YOUVE ALWAYS DONE YOU ALWAYS GET WHAT YOUVE ALWAYS GOT”

    I FELT BARBERING WAS AN UNTAPPED MARKET A BRAVE NEW WORLD TO EXPLORE AND CONQUER
    I FELT BARBERING WAS SOMEWHERE I COULD MAKE MY MARK

    ALL THE TALENT WENT INTO LADIES HAIRDRESSING

    THEY THOUGHT BARBERING WAS UNEXCITING ,NOT COOL!

    WELL I DIDNT AGREE! I WANTED TO PROVE THEM ALL WRONG!
    I WANTED TO BECOME AN EXPERT IN MENS HAIR
    I WANTED TO MASTER THE CRAFT I LOVED BARBERING

    SO AT THE AGE OF 28 I DECIDED TO START ALL OVER AGAIN

    I WANTED TO LEARN FROM THE BEST I WANTED TO PUSH MYSELF TEST MYSELF

    I WANTED TO WORK FOR THE BEST I DIDNT WANT TO BE OK! ANYMORE

    SO I STARTED MY
    JOURNEY.

    I WAS FORTUNTE ENOUGH TO BE EMPLOYED AND RE-TRAINED AS A BARBER FOR VIDAL SASSOON!

    IT WAS A TUFF JOURNEY BUT ONE I WOULDNT CHANGE FOR THE WORLD
    SO WHAT DID I LEARN?
    HOW DID WORKING AT VIDAL SASSOON CHANGE ME?

    PAUSE????

    I KNOW LOOKED AT HAIR IN A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT WAY FOR THE FIRST TIME I CONSIDERED MY SELF A CRAFTSMEN

    I RELATED HAIR KNOW TO BEING LIKE A FINE TAILOR
    YOU CAN BUY A SUIT FOR A £30 Or
    £3000
    THEY BOTH HAVE THE SAME PURPOSE BUT THERE IS A DIFFERENT THEORY BEHIND EACH.

    A BEAUTIFULLY TAILORED SUIT IS MADE BY A CRAFT PERSON, SOMEONE WHO UNDERSTANDS THE BODY, UNDERSTANDS THE CLOTH UNDERTSTANDS THAT DIFFERENT CUTS CAN MAKE A MAN LOOK MORE MASCULINE.

    ITS ABOUT UNDERSTANDING HAIR IS A CLOTH UNDERSTANDING THE DETAIL, HAIR TEXTURES, HEAD SHAPE, FACESHAPE, AND TAILOR –MAKING IT FOR YOUR CLIENT MAKING THEM FEEL SPECIAL, IS WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT

    SO WHERE DO I FIND MY INSPIRATION, WHAT INFLUENCES ME?

    TO LOOK FORWARD, FIRST YOU HAVE TO LOOK BACK!
    IM VERY PROUD TO BE AN ENGLISH MAN
    AND THE REASON BEING IS BECAUSE THIS LITTLE ISLAND IS A WORLD LEADER IN FASHION AND MUSIC
    A WORLD LEADER IN YOUTH MOVEMENTS FOR DECADES.
    SOME OF THE MOST AMAZING STREET CULTURE AND MOVEMENTS HAVE STARTED ON THIS LITTLE ISLAND

    MODS , ROCKERS , TEDDY BOYS, GREESERS ,SCOOTER BOYS SUADE HEADS, RUDE BOYS , PUNKS NEW ROMANTICS SOUL BOYS ,CASUALS TO NAME BUT A FEW
    ALL WITH THERE OWN BRAND OF STYLE HAIR CUTS AND MUSIC ALL WITH THERE OWN GANG AFFILIATIONS
    SOME EVEN HAD THERE OWN MODE OF TRANSPORT THE MODS - HAD THE VESPA OR LAMBARRETA

    THE ROCKERS THERE CHOICE OF TRANSPORT WERE BRITISH MADE MOTOR BIKES LIKE THE TRIUMPH , BSA OR NORTON COMMANDERS.
    I GET VERY INSPIRED BY STREET CULTURE ESPECIALLY THE MOD AND SKA SCENE .
    IM INFLUENCED BY SOMETHING THAT HAS GOT SOUL ,
    THAT COULD BE A PICTURE ,A YOUTH MOVEMENT ,CLOTHS OR A MUSIC SCENE

    PAUSE!!

    GENERALLY MOST IMAGES I SEE IN HAIR MAGAZINES ARE SOULLESS .
    IM NOT INTERESTED IN GETTING GOOD LOOKING BOYS WITH THERE CHESTS OUT WEARING CLOTHS THEY WOULDN'T NORMALLY WEAR STYLING THERE HAIR IN A STYLE THEY WOULDN'T NORMALLY HAVE

    I’D RATHER PLUCK SOMEONE OUT OF A STREET CULTURE OR A SCENE THEY’RE INTO AND USE THEM AS A WHOLE
    BECAUSE THEY’RE REAL ,IT’S NOT MAKE BELIEVE . IT’S GOT SOUL THERE IS A STORY BEHIND YOUR IMAGES OR COLLECTION A STORY WORTH TELLING ABOUT OUR GREAT BRITISH STREET CULTURE AND HERITAGE!

    SO IF YOU WANT MY ADVICE EDUCATE YOURSELF BECOME AN EXPERT! DON'T BE PUT OFF IF YOUR THINKING I COULDNT DO THAT! YOUR WRONG! YOU CAN!

    I DON'T BUY INTO NATURAL TALENT IT’S NONSENSE- THEYVE JUST WORKED HARDER THAN YOU!
    SO IF YOUR UNHAPPY WITH WHERE YOU ARE IN YOUR CARREAR CHANGE IT! LEARN MORE AND WORK
    HARDER BECOME WHO YOU WANT TO BE!

    WINSTON CHURCHILL ONCE SAID: “SOMETIMES YOUR BEST ISNT GOOD ENOUGH! SOMETIMES YOU NEED TO DO WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE”

    SO FOR THOSE OF YOU HERE TODAY WHO ARE STARTINGTHERE JOURNEY AS I DID SO MANY YEARS A GO. MAY IT BE , EXCITING AND A REWARDING ONE
    THANK-YOU"

    Wednesday, May 9, 2012

    Vidal Sassoon, The Most Important Man in Hairdressing

       A little while ago I turned on my computer for the first time today and the first things I read was "Vidal Sassoon, dead at 84".

        Who would of known that a 14 year old shampoo boy in a London salon was going to grow up to be the most important, most respected and most influential man in the hair industry.

        As a kid I did not know anything about Vidal Sassoon except the brushes around the house had his name on them. It was not until I got older that I learned who he was and then as my wife was going through cosmetology school I began to understand who he was and exactly what his influence on the hair industry truly was.

        Born in London in 1928, Vidal Sassoon was the child of poor parents. After his father left the family, he was raised partly in a Jewish orphanage until his mother remarried and reunited with Vidal when he was 11. He was an avid soccer player as a boy — and a lifelong fitness devotee — but he turned to hairdressing after his mother claimed she had had a vision of his future. She took him to a local shop where the proprietor decided the boy would do as an apprentice because he had good manners.

       

    Monday, May 7, 2012

    Barbers and Tattoo artist...Trade cut from the same cloth.

    Danny Warner and myself in Fresno,CA.
        I am a barber and have had my license since 2006. I have worked in both Washington and California. My friends are barbers and tattoo artist. The whole time I lived in Washington all I did was work and hang out in tattoo shops, but this weekend there was a light switch that clicked in my head and I realized that we as barbers and tattoo artist are cut from a very similar clothe.

        On Sunday while I was getting tattooed by Danny Warner (Classic Tattoo Studio Grass Valley,Ca) we got to have a great conversation about tattooing, regulation and what it takes to be the best tattoo artist he can be. This seriously got me thinking about what I do as well.

        The barber industry is regulated and when I asked him what he thought of the tattooing industry starting to see regulations being put into place his answer was "I am not afraid of it". Continued by making a snide remark about suppliers who sell tattoo equipment and supplies to people at conventions who are not really tattoo artist.

        Just like the "tattoo artist" who buys his stuff from the smoke shop in shady neighborhoods doing tattoos in his kitchen, there are "barbers" who work out of there garages with out going to school and think that is all there is to it. Just because you own a tattoo machine (it is not called a tattoo gun!) does not make you a tattoo artist. Just because you own a set of clippers does not make you a barber.

        As we continued to talk Danny said on thing that made me "wake up" and it was this..."There are going to be people that are better then me and I have to work to be better then them." What the hell this guy who has been tattooing for 10 years and has a nice looking portfolio oh yeah and is tattooing me is honest about that fact that he know there are people that are better then him, but really plans on being the best out there.

        It was at this moment I realized "Wow, barbers and tattoo artist have a lot of shit in common." Not only do we share a craft that goes back hundreds of years but a trade that takes time to master and yeah there are going to be people that are better then us (whether they work in a shop or there moms garage). It is up to you how you handle your career, trade and craft. Someone better then you, what are you going to do to become better then them.

    Cut With Pride sucka!!
        It is all in your hands....literally!! Your tattoo machine, your ink, your clippers, your shears, your razor....It is all in your hands!!

    Monday, April 30, 2012

    Branding

        So today mail came and I was like a little kid becuase my stuff from Suaveciito got here in time for the Fresno Tattoo Expo and the package I have been waiting so long for also came-the Frankie The Barber stickers came as well (good job Sticker Guy). I was so excited about my stickers and it really got me to thinking about branding and shops the developed there own brand with the help of products.

        When you are a business of any kind branding is not always the easiest thing to do and when you are a barber sometimes it is a little more difficult because most cities have so many barbershops. In the neighborhood where I work there are over 6 shops in a 5 mile radius. I think that shops (anzcod salons) who go out of there way to develop there own product lines to sell on there shelves are smart! I am not just talking about things like t-shirts, combs or in my case stickers.

        Let's start with the barbershop that has really changed the face of the barbershop in America espcially when it comes to branding himself and that is Don Hawley and Layrite. When you mention Hawleywood's you automatically know who you are talking about. The truth is Layrite as a product has even effected how others make there pomade.

       When you get into West Hollywood,Ca. Shorty's Barbershop has developed an entire line of products that are not only available on-line but in there shop on Fairfax Ave. They have everything from styling products, shampoos..etc.

        My boy Luis Orozco at Covenant Barbershop in Fresno,Ca, has bottled his own brand of bay rum skin elixar.

        Last week I spoke to John Major the owner of Johnny D's Barbershop in San Jose,Ca and after almost 2 years in business they are working on there very own pomade.

        Do not forget Joe's Barbershop who have gone the extra step..They may not have a pomade or a shampoo they have made available custom clippers and some really awesome events like "Hangover Shave Sundays" and the "Sunday Nite 8-ball Tournaments".

        These are just a few examples or what some shops are doing to separate themselves from the rest of the pack. Finding that one thing that not only causes your shop to stand out but  finding that one thing that one thing that helps you as an individual professional to stand out in an industry that already has so many people coming out of barber school or even cosmetology school.

    Tuesday, April 17, 2012

    Barbers And The Hot Rod Culture

       Alright VLV 15 is over and again it is another year that I did not get to go but that is not what this is about.This is really about how barbers are becoming as much a part of the hod culture as the tattoo artist. So today I spent some time e-mailing some barbers to get there feedback on this topic.

       I know for myself some of my favorite times are when I am cutting hair at car shows, selling pomades at shows or tattoo shows. When you go to major car show events you will find pomade being sold, barbershops with booths set up cutting hair (always busy).

    Luis at Covenant Barbershop
       I know that I had the pleasure to interview Don Hawley quite a few years ago when I was publishing The Undergournd Magazine (before Hawleywoods was a proverbial household name). The last couple of years barbershops around the country have been getting covered by not only tattoo magazines but car magazine.

       Tattooing and barbershop hold the same kind of history and Luis Orozco of Covenant Barbershop in Fresno,Ca. believes that it is "with the rise of more traditional style barbershop". Joe Caccavella from Joe's Barbershop in Chicago says "The entire basis of the Kustom Kulture or “Rock-a-billy” scene is tradition. From the clothes to cars to the hair styles".
    Joe Caccavella at Joe's Barbershop

    Frankie The Barber
        Working in the barbershop and being a fan of the "rock-a-billy" I know that I do not trust Supercuts or the salon inside the local Wal-Mart with my cut. Joe adds " So with the growing popularity of the whole kustom culture lifestyle it makes perfect sense that traditional barbers are showing up more and more that specialize in vintage/period correct cuts and styles".

        Well I think the point has been made....it is all about tradition. I know that for me as a barber I work really hard and take pride in my craft and I am proud of the history and tradition that comes along with it!