The Idea Behind an Open Concept Studio

By Christian Santiago, Procapilar by Tiago, Miami, Florida

I have been happy wearing a hairpiece for 13 years. When I decided to open my studio, the first thing that came to my mind was creating an open space that wouldn't make me feel locked up and under stress from a judging mirror.

I imagined a place dedicated to us — all men. It's a place where all hair wearers can feel free, and we can accept who we are, get to know each other, network, establish a community and talk about things that we do, what we enjoy and most importantly we could identify with each other. We can identify with one another without any insecurities, fear or any kind of judgment. In this environment, we can share our experiences.

I've always thought — and I am saying this from my own experience — what would I prefer as a customer? Would I want to be in a closed room without any contact or anyone who could talk to me or see me? Or should it be an open space where community was happening?

To me, being closed in a room would contribute to our insecurities. I went through this, I experienced it. Sadly it keeps happening, and it contributes to that feeling of uncertainty about needing hair replacement and its effectiveness. At least it keeps happening in the area where I live and work.

Why not accept that hair loss exists and there are solutions for it? Do people think that I am less than others because I have a hair loss problem? Would they think I am not successful enough if they found out I am losing hair and I chose to wear a hairpiece? Why is there a taboo? What am I trying to hide? Why are we putting limits?

Before I opened, I visited several different sports and art clubs in my area. I appreciated how these clubs would get together in groups and have conversations. Some of them were friends for many years, others would have coffee or drinks together and would discuss different things and enjoy being together.

From this, I got the idea to open a "barber club." Today, it is a successful barber club dedicated only to hairpiece wearers in South Florida. My business is based on traditional hair system application techniques and combines modern barbering techniques.

Here at our studio men live an experience, build friendships and partnerships and even call themselves "Procapileros Brothers.". My clients can relax, enjoy being pampered, and down time joking about anything. They give each other advice while enjoying a good coffee or a cocktail.