A TRIBUTE TO MR SAM WALL “Ello mate

A TRIBUTE TO MR SAM WALL

It was with great sadness that we have learned of the passing of the much-loved and exceptionally talented barber Sam Wall. He meant a great deal to us and our barber community. He took part in the very first edition of BarberSociety Live and in later editions gave shows and demonstrations and served as a jury member of the BarberSociety battle. His wonderfully creative collections were regularly featured in BarberSociety magazine. We are honouring his memory with a piece that has been beautifully written by his friend and mentor Chris Foster.

Photography ©Marie Harkness Before you witnessed the talent you saw a, smartly dressed guy, the smile and then you heard, “ELLO MATE”

This is where your journey started with Sam, his cheeky cockney accent and his contagious smile. Then came his endearing warmth and charm.

And this was all before he picked up a pair of scissors!

Behind the ‘Mr Sam Wall’ brand was a young guy that had the natural ability to share his creativity and knowledge. I can recall many times Sam being studious in his approach. He wanted to become a better presenter and improve his competition work. We would discuss the key skills involved, and then he would go away, study them and wouldn’t be satisfied until he mastered it.

ELLO MATE

He also had the ability to take an idea, or concept and implement it like I’d never seen before. All while putting his special twist on it. When I would ask him how does he do it? He would say,

“I dunno, I just go on my gut”.

To be fair, Sam always played down his achievements but there was no denying his talent. He was an Award-Winning Men’s Stylist, recognised for his distinctive style through all of his work both nationally and internationally.

He was based at Hidden Heights Creative studios and worked alongside fellow creatives collaborating in hair, make-up and photography. It was here that I saw Sam became a true entrepreneur. You may ask, why did Sam’s work and his brand stand out as it did?

And the short answer is that he was authentic!

His brand was authentic and personal to him. He believed in that personal connection. If he didn’t get that connection he wouldn’t work with the brand.

His product range, ‘LETS AVE IT’ personified this ethos of keeping it real and personal to him.

With his “Sammy Sprinkle” Salt Powder and “How’s That” Cream he stayed true to himself.

Sam leaves a legacy of awe-inspiring talent and dedication. He will never be forgotten for his warmth and generous nature. Always complimenting others on their work and successes. He is and always will be highly respected within the industry. We, his friends will sorely miss him and likewise those who watched and were inspired by his creative journey.

I am honoured to call Sam my friend, my mentee and colleague of the industry.

Chris Foster

Dear Sam, rest in peace.