Barbershop Year 12 Issue 1

barber shop

GENERAL

editor’s letter

ADVERTISING

We start this issue by first acknowledging the Kabi Kabi and Tugambeh people, traditional custodians of the lands from which be bring you barbershop magazine, we pay respect to their elders past, present, and emerging. A very warm welcome to you one and all wherever you are reading us.

Out of the gates and racing! It’s almost the end of the first quarter and I hope it’s been a strong start to the year for ya’ll!

American Crew are kicking off their 2023 education platform at the Barber Temple on March 6th with legends Mark Rabone, 2022 AMBA Hall of Fame inductee Lino D’Adderio and 2016 All Star of the Year, Gary McKenzie. This Night of Inspiration will be followed by a National Tour of shows and some dates featuring American Crew Challenge 2022 World Champ Luke Munn, so get the skinny on that in these pages and book your spot.

Last issue we featured the winners of our 2022 AMBA’s… red carpet pics and lovely images of us all at the Plaza Ballroom in Melbourne. This Issue let’s meet some of those winners up close and personal.

Of course, we start with the big gun Costa Zacharia Mr Australian Modern Barber of the Year! What a guy! What an experience for him and his Team, the UNOIT Team took out best Team Collection you may recall, want to understand more about Costa, grasp his re-action to the Team Collection win, and you’ll get a masterclass in leadership traits. Read it.

Stacy Fernandes is in the house!, this star on the rise is current Australian Modern Barber of the Year ‘Classic Collection’ Title holder and Stacy shares her barber story thus far…Stacy gets extra kudos, she is a barber industry ‘first-responder’… she teaches the next gen!! Read it.

We have a new correspondent!, well, not that new to barbershop magazine, in-fact, she was one my first phone calls when I landed this gig as editor as I wanted, no… I needed, to have her voice in our industries premier publication, and she has been with every issue since. This year our 2022 AMBA Special Recognition recipient Collette Saunders presents her first feature for us and takes us to WA to meet the Pilbara Queen! One of the toughest places on the planet to be a barber yet charging up to $120 a visit…something in this story for us East Coasters FO-SHO! Read it.

When you’re not in the room do you think people talk about you behind you back? Of course, they do, and I am no different. Australia’s Matt Clarke left the country to wed his beautiful new bride Brooke in a whirlwind elopement in Las Vegas, and then engage on a 12-week trip of a lifetime honeymoon leaving himself wide open… so I wrote a multi-page feature story on him while he is away…take that Matt Clarke! Read it.

Hey, what’s up with the Australian Hairdressing Council? How do they help the Barber Industry? Can they help me? Yes they can…Sandy Chong from the AHC explains all… this is a must read!!

Before the AMBA’s we had Australia’s Barber community folk enter specialized categories at our AHIA’s, well, we finally meet multi-AHIA and now multi-AMBA winner Anna DeSanctis from Barber Boys and Barbery the Craft of a Barber this issue for a huge double story breaking down Anna’s career and the rise of the Barbery. Read it.

What’s New? New Bloggers that’s what!! Industry Icons a-blaze!! Lance Liufau of The Loft Barbers and newly created BaByliss creative and education team is back in the pages of barbershop, talking about Community. Read It.

Educator Fraser Forsey of Tommy Guns and Barber Temple is a new blogger team member, and he puts Australian product companies on notice to step-up…in the most positive of ways. Read it.

Anna DeSanctis onboards as a new blogger and shares her wealth of knowledge across our barber business landscape as does Mr James O’Brien that’s right, we have Jimmy Rod sharing with us this year and we are in for some big treats. Jimmy gives us some pointers on how we might survive this current climate. Read them.

We have scalp and skin health advice from the Professor, AMBA 2022 Business of the Year Mario Fallace back for another year, we’ve got SMP on Beards with Lucas Smith, Collections, new gear and news and a whole lot more!!! Read all about it!!

This is Year 12. Issue 1…Enjoy!!

Rex A.C. Silver

Editor – Barbershop Magazine

How do I read back issues? www.issuu.com search BarberShop

How do I connect with Rex? @rex.a.c.silver

Costa Zacharia and his rag-tag band of misfits

BY REX A.C. SILVER

2022 Australian Modern Barbers Awards (AMBA) WINNERS

Australian Modern Barber of the Year – COSTA ZACHARIA

Best Team Collection - THE UNOIT BARBER TEAM

You might be surprised to find out that winning Australian Modern Barber of the Year wasn’t actually the highlight of Costa Zacharia’s night on that November evening in Melbourne’s eclectic and ethereal underground Plaza Ballroom. Don’t get me wrong, it’s an honour and privilege he wears well, with enormous pride and immense gratification and it’s a responsibility he does not take lightly.

But by his own admission, Costa’s night was done, almost, when his beloved UNOIT crew took out Best Team Collection. It was then that Costa new he had succeeded.

This man has his priorities and beliefs in running a barber business are set in stone and not much will budge that. He entered our industry in a most unusual way. Hair is in his DNA for sure, his parents have had salons for the last 40 years and Costa spent his first decade after school growing up in the backrooms of salons, often wandering out to talk to his extended family on the floor both hairdressers and clients. That’s not so unusual, this is…. Costa spent his first 10 years as a professional in the hair industry in some of the country’s top salons as a Salon Manager and performing various business and marketing roles within the businesses he worked at.

He mastered the business side of our industry, the customer service side and to him, and most importantly it would seem, the importance of creating, maintaining, and managing an amazing team. Then he picked up a pair of scissors…

So,

Costa, Hair is in your Blood….

Home is where the heart is! Watching my parents, Kerry & Angela Zacharia, run their salons in Adelaide as young boy was as educational as it was inspiring, and my parents have always put a lot of heart into their businesses. I remember doing my year 5 maths homework in the back room waiting for Mum to finish work (some of the hairdressers would even help me with my homework - thanks Rachel!). I remember the excitement of the salon environment, the clients bustling in, and getting to know all of the team. A very early memory I have, while Mum & Dad were running a team meeting is me (killing time) running a 0 clipper straight down the middle of my hair - I guess I felt comfortable on the tools from a very young age (oops).

Being surrounded by my parents drive and ambition instilled in me that that is just what you do as an adult, I’m very thankful to them both! The most intriguing/fun part for me was all the mannequin heads Mum had for training her team. I saw them as a creative mission that must be conquered (and it also passed the time while I was waiting to go home and play Super Nintendo). My auntie Anna would often babysit me, and I remember my older cousins getting ready for their nights out on the town, watching them style their hair and choose their party outfits seemed like such creative fun to me - so I would just sit and watch them create these cool looks - back combing and teasing was very much in at the time, and watching the hair grow higher and higher was pretty hypnotic (God bless the early 90’s).

I didn’t realise until later in my career as a grown man that I too love creating looks from the ground up, and now having the skill to do so gives me the ability to do this with every guest and in shoots/comps.

I think the most obvious thing that shone through while watching my parents run their entities was the heart they put into it – and from the start of my career I have always made a point to connect with my guests and now my amazing team. My business decisions are informed and purposeful but I always take my heart with me.

Share with us your hands-on hair journey…

Wanting to stand on my own 2 feet (and not in my parents’ shop) I applied for a job as Salon Coordinator as Gritti Palace – one of Adelaide’s coolest salons back in 2004. I was so chuffed with myself getting to work amongst the creative team and also getting to mingle with all the clients. Although I was 19 and still very much learning about customer service, the environment just gripped me and I just felt comfortable right away. I later joined the family business (for which I felt I had been dress-rehearsing since I was 5 years old) – and as a young man now working side by side my parents, I got to see first-hand how to run a successful salon and understood the finer details of how my parents made this work for so many years.

Always hungry to stand on my own and push my comfort zone, I moved to Melbourne for adventure at 23 years old and worked at Rubi Hair on Chapel Street. Kaye Rubi the owner took me under her wing and could see my passion for the industry. Kaye was fundamental to my growing phase in the industry, and it was great to see another inspiring salon owner do her thing and nail it so perfectly. Together we would create customer experience and annual promotional calendars for the business – Kaye was a great businesswoman and I feel I learnt a lot from her as an impressionable young 20 something. The people you surround yourself with from a young age really do help shape you later in life.

After 4 years in Melbourne, I decided to head back home and finally learn the tools of the trade. My brother Zac had been smashing it as a barber since 2000 – so I was like “Hey bro, you wanna teach me how to do this?!”. I had many teachers from this point, my brother, along with Phil Dutton, Johnny Georgiou and Pam Chapman – a dream team that taught me skills and technique’s I still use today. A massive thank you and big love to them all, I appreciate you beyond!

Back in 2012, barbering wasn’t yet a recognised qualification so I had to embark on a hairdressing cert III. Although at the time I was frustrated learning perms, blow-drying and balayage – I’m now so grateful because I have incorporate these non-traditional barber services into my business model and blurred the lines between a barbershop and a hair salon with UNOIT. A concept that men have welcomed with open arms because it adds a touch of luxury and a service menu that’s more than just a ‘fade and a shave.’

Before moving to Sydney in 2018 I opened a little barbershop with my folks in Leabrook, Adelaide –OSCARS was my baby!, and I took great pleasure in growing this 3-chair barbershop into a busy hub all while putting my years of education and knowledge to the test with me at the helm for the first time. I see OSCARS as my post-grad, and it defiantly gave me the confidence to embark on the next chapter… Sydney.

Melbourne to Sydney and…. UNOIT!

After working in some highly reputable barbershops in Sydney for 2 years I had the hunger to create a space of my own in the big smoke. I knew the industry was saturated with barbershops on every street corner – so creating a unique offering was vital. My fiancé Colin Jowell comes from a brand marketing and CX background along with him business partner Kon Marinis (graphic designer guru). Kon introduced me to his girlfriend Jessica Ross – a talented skin expert who wanted to branch out on her own and open an advanced skin clinic – this was the edge we both needed to create a gender-neutral space offering full hair services for men ranging from colour, keratin, lightening, haircut, shave, and beards – along with skin treatments for men & women such as laser hair removal, cosmetic treatments, clinical facials, and cosmetic injecting.

The journey began in late 2019 – Jess and I found the space (99 Crown St Darlinghurst), Black Milk nailed the design brief (which was nationally recognised as a finalist for Best Barbershop Design at the Australian Modern Barber Awards), Colin & Kon created the ethos and visual concept – so we were good to go! Right?...

Mid construction … Covid hit! A hurdle that we could never have planned for and one that set us back 7 months with an array of delays from a builder that left us in the dark and plumbing that wasn’t laid to NSW building code. All while paying rent and navigating the covid beast as it grew and grew, we had to find a new builder to relay the plumbing, scope up the remainder of the works and finish the job so we could finally open our doors!

cont’d over page

Come October 2020 – UNOIT finally opened, I relied on my parents teachings to ensure every guest was comfortable and that Jess & I exceeded every expectation from our curious small clientele at the time. We started to gain traction over the coming months and even featured in GQ and listed atop of Boss Hunting’s best barbershops in Sydney – shout out to the BH team, your love and support from the start hasn’t gone unnoticed!

Come June 25th, 2021, Sydney went back into a 3.5-month hard lockdown. As all small business’ around the world were left wondering at one point or another during Covid, could we hold onto our team, how long would this go on for, and ultimately would we lose our business?!

The NSW government kept small business afloat and thankfully when we re-opened in mid-October 2021 – we were able to climb our way back to keep the doors open. One positive was an abundance of clients and new clients DESPERATE for a haircut after almost 4 months of home haircuts and/or no haircuts. I didn’t even recognise my clients of 3 years when he walked in.. I was like… “Just sit down and don’t worry, I got you!” ha-ha. I’m sure I’m not alone when I say I’ve never felt more appreciated as a barber during this period. The perfect storm of client demand and barbers in need of work meant we were able to build our team and keep up with the massive backlog of haircuts over the coming months.

Our colourful end of Crown Street has organically flourished into a wellness prescient including hair, skin, fitness, physio, eateries and even a pet supplies/doggy day-care store for our 4-legged friends. It’s important for small business’ to stick together and help each other grow, especially after the covid era. All our talented and lovely neighbouring business’ complement each other so we are proud to bring a health and wellness offering to our community by banding together and doing what we do best!

Let’s talk about that team you have built and the internal ethos and beliefs UNOIT stands for…

My goal here was to create a place where people wanted to work, and my team’s happiness and professional growth is very important to me. Jess and I have always focussed on culture and firmly believe if we all work in a fun, upbeat environment our guests will also get the best of us and be part of the energy we’re creating. When hiring I always look for a good attitude and passion. The skills are important but I can’t teach you how to be passionate – so we are proud to have a full team (Sophie, Antonio, Yuri, Nino, Tia, Cass, Chadi and our cosmetic nurse John). I really believe in leading by example and want to ensure my team have a pathway that they can see will expand their skill and offer them a career, not just a job.

When it came to designing the customer experience, we looked at every touch point and asked ourselves how we can add a WOW factor at each step. I wanted our guests to leave feeling they hadn’t experienced a barbershop quite like that before. My fav part of getting a haircut is definitely the scalp massage so this was non-negotiable. We had to have laydown massage chairs and head rubs for every guest (and who doesn’t love a hot towel infused with eucalyptus to break up the work day grind.)

I educate my team to educate their guests on how to style their hair at home, what products suit their hair type and offer solutions for their hair and scalp concerns. My worst nightmare would be to just cut hair and take money! As my mother always says.. it’s the care factor that keeps guests coming back. Thanks mama you’re so right!

Our signature service is definitely THE BOSS EXPERIENCE (as recommended by GQ Australia) – a haircut, cocktail, deluxe shave, extended scalp massage and custom-made tailor shirt from our friends at OSCAR HUNT.

I’ve found hair salons are built on luxury and customer comforts, so why can’t barbershops offer the same vibe? Being booked out 8 weeks ahead is testament to this – thank you to all our amazing clients who have supported us from the beginning.

When choosing a product range for UNOIT – we wanted something fresh, qualitive and broad. DEPOT was just that range, offering total hair range (that smells too good to be true) along with scented candles, body washes, bags and even furniture (stay tuned!).

OK, Happy clients…business is going well, let’s get some points on the board, let’s go in the AMBA’s. Please tell us about bringing the team together for Team Collection….

I remember the initial meeting I had with the team about entering the AMBA’s – we were excited and determined to bring something fresh to the table and put UNOIT on the map. The day that we found out we made National Finalist in 5 categories (Best Barbershop Design, Best Customer Care, Business of the Year, Best Team Collection and Modern Barber of the Year) was a moment I’ll never forget. I rang my fiancé Colin as I was at work when they were announced and we just spent the entire phone call shrieking at each other in excitement. I couldn’t do what I do without Colin’s love and support, and the support of all my family and friends –being around a new small business owner can be trying at times and their patience and belief in me hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Putting the Team Collection together was super fun as it was a truly collaborative effort, we all worked to our strengths and turned up for every test run – which made shoot day seamless and exciting! Our amazing photographer Johnny Diaz @johnnyvision and Makeup Artist Alana @alanaluckymakeup nailed the brief and we ended up with a gender-neutral collection that showcased cut, colour, style, fashion, and aesthetic. We’re super proud!

Antonio brought his eye for shape and beautiful cutting skills, Sophie brought her creative styling and colour genius, Yuri brought his flair for clipper work and shears, Nino brought his systematic ideas and assisted with styling – and this award was most important to me as I really wanted us all to share in the spotlight and have that moment on stage accepting the award.. so, when we won – it was magic! If I can play a role in elevating the teams confidence and profile I’ll take it every time. Love you guys!

Please tell us about your entry and your experience with the process of entering your AMBA submission….

When creating a collection, it’s far more than just doing a good cut and taking a photo – I find it’s all about pre-planning, test runs, colour matching, and ensuring I’m displaying an array of skills all while telling a cohesive story. Entering Modern Barber of Year (for me) was also about the wholistic approach, which I take very seriously and try to project that to our industry.

I take pride in my contribution to our industry and also how we can grow together and elevate each other; how I treat my guests, how I motivate my team and how the business is run. When I watch the video back when my name was announced for Modern Barber of the Year I still remember the shear disbelief and knew that this was a full circle moment from those early days in Mum’s salon all the way to UNOIT. Of course, I could never have done this without

each and every teacher and mentor who inspired me to keep going – so thank you to everyone – you know who you are!

The collection is a focussed on strong shapes and silhouettes, while showcasing creative flair and styling to unite a group of photos that have an edge and a strong aesthetic. I love creating looks and the adrenalin I have on shoot day is so damn addictive, I just keep coming back for more!

Success in awards really can give your business a major boost. Costa, walk us through the experience, the winning, the TV spot, the energy injection it has given you and your business..

The end of 2022 was such a thrill, not only did my team win a national award which I am so proud of, but then winning Barber of The Year has given UNOIT the platform to grow in so many ways. The Mocha Group were so amazing in raising awareness for UNOIT and I’ll never forget getting the call about going on live television with Channel 10 the next morning…. (nerves and all, this was such a moment!). Big thanks to all involved in making that happen, again, to all at the Mocha Group, Jo Coles thank you…. and hey!, my mullet got a HD close up on morning television ha-ha! What now…. 2023, we’ve hit the ground running – planning our second store, launching an educational platform where we aim to inspire the industry in skill and service – I’ve learnt that you must have sound technical knowledge but without the psychology of how to deliver it and the confidence to connect with humans behind the chair it will only get you so far.

Antonio, the team, and I are launching a platform where we can not only teach creative skill but also give you the tools to find your niche and focussing in on self-belief to create a column that’s full but also a career that you’re most proud of.

My focus is steadfast on always finding ways to innovate the salon experience, motivate our team and ultimately give back to the industry wherever we can. Even though UNOIT is just over 2 years old and we have achieved a sum of work of which we’re immensely proud of already, I feel that we are just getting started and with our heart in the right place and the right people at the table we can truly continue to contribute to this ever evolving and exciting industry.

@unoit_barber

THE UNASSUMING MAESTRO

BY REX A.C. SILVER

AHIA Finalist, AMBA Finalist and Winner of the internationally accessible Mizutani World Cutting Contest

‘The Edge Award” 2022, Australia’s Matt Clarke is indeed a rising star on the Barber scene here at home and indeed internationally.

Barely a decade into his career and Matt has carved a clear path to the future direction he’d like to take on, blending editorial and stage work with his day to day behind the chair to create his perfect work balance. This hard worker, focused artist and natural educator deserves his wishes to come true and I bet they will as good things come to good people. Right now, at time of print, Matt is on a 3-month trip of a lifetime with his beautiful partner Brooke and YES, they eloped and got married in Las Vegas!!

Congratulations from all at The Mocha Group Mr and Mrs Clarke!

When his feet a back on the ground, you will find Matt barbering alongside industry legend Mark Rabone at Brisbane’s Esquire Male Grooming.

Let’s meet……

MATT CLARKE

A little about the young Matt…

I grew up in Redcliffe on Brisbane’s northside, where I basically lived at the skate park, I was a pretty typical kid, turning my hand at anything on wheels, be it skating (my first love), BMX or in-line skates. My other passions growing up were music and film. I loved

making shorts or music videos with my friends, I was always driven by creative endeavours. Inspired by classic movies and music, I was drawn to specific subcultures from history and influenced heavily from these cliques.

Your hair journey thus far …

I guess I started out like a lot of barbers I look up to, by cutting my own hair. With the constant struggle to find a stylist that would give me the weirdly specific edgy haircuts I was looking for, I decided to take a crack at it myself, which soon lead to my friends requesting I do theirs too.

However, hair was never the original goal, merely a hobby. I have a duel degree in film and professional writing and had dreams of being a cinematographer or script writer. However, upon finishing my degree and starting up my own business, I realised quickly that the passion I had for writing and camera work didn’t translate into business. The long hours and constant stress of freelance work burnt me out and I found the only thing making me happy was cutting my friends hair for beers in my parents backyard.

So, I decided to take up barbering more seriously, it was still in the infancy of its resurgence, around 2013/2014 so there wasn’t the volume of amazing shops there is today. I went to every barbershop on Brisbane’s northside and the city (literally) to try and land an apprenticeship, to no avail.

So, I did some work experience at a shop in the city and enrolled myself in a course at the then brand-new Brisbane school of Barbering. After 5 months of working for free and going to college I finally landed a formal apprenticeship. Since finishing my apprenticeship, my skillset has taken me all around the world, from working my way across Europe and North America to London where I worked at the UK’s no.1 barbershop, Ruffians Shoreditch. Where I had the opportunity to work with companies such as Top man, GQ, Asos, Adidas and with musicians such as Alt J, Mumford and Sons and The Amazons, which is where I found my passion in commercial and editorial work.

Let’s talk in shop….. I do see an edgy twist or subtle alternative element to your in-store commercial work but please expand in detail how you approach your in-shop work and Matt, what does barbering and providing grooming services mean to you? My approach to hair is pretty simple, it’s about the client, all clients. Barbering to me is not defined by length of hair, the tools we use or the texture of hair we work with. I see an inability to cut a clients hair type or length as a failing on my behalf. Not that they should just go to a ladies salon or a barbershop that specialises in a specific type of texture. So, across my near decade in the industry, I have strived to educate myself in all of my shortcoming within hair.

I pride myself on versatility in this industry. Which has really freed me, by having a comprehensive understanding of hair, I can truly be creative with shape and style. In store my clients typically give me their full trust. I cut hair not with the thought of how they will look leaving the shop but how they will look when they return. So, one of the first questions of my consults is how long they go between haircuts. So, I can give them a style that won’t just look good but will also suit their lifestyle.

Let’s talk STUDIO and about your creative collections and award submissions work. I think you are one of the most stimulating artists out there right now and it has been a joy to watch you develop and grow over the last couple of years. I especially love how you have stayed true to your creative blueprint and are patiently waiting for the hair scene in Australia to catch up ha-ha. What I’m talking about is your obvious devotion for longer hair on men and I for one find it really exciting as a creative looking at it. It showcases your cutting and styling talent and your perception for today’s modern male or indeed the male of 5 years from now.

I guess I’m just obsessed with specific subcultures, music, and films from history; the Brighton Mods, 80’s New York hardcore scene, London punks or the works of Kubrick, Scorsese, Hitchcock, Basquiat, Hendricks, Black Sabbath, or Dead Kennedys. And these reference points have really shaped my previous hair collections. I love the combination of hairdressing and classic barbering so scissor work, free hand clipper and longer lengths have become sort of a signature of mine in recent years, the effortlessness of these shapes, the flow and texture is what I’m inspired by. A couple of years ago I was approached by Top Man to create and write an article about the must have men’s style of winter, which resulted in ‘the biker bob’ a classic longer shape with a modern temple fade inspired by 1970’s Hell’s Angels and the article was released at the height of Sons of Anarchy fame.

With the success of the article, I sought to explore more traditional feminine shapes and incorporate them into classic barbering to create soft masculine longer shapes.

Not to say I’m not inspired by modern hairstyles and techniques but with executive contours and skin fade being my in-store bread and butter for nearly a decade. I seek to broaden my idea of shape and technique within my creative collections. Rather than the hyper-modernist styling of some barbers I see on socials, I still find myself drawn to what I’d refer to as Neo-classics. Utilising modern techniques on classic shapes.

Don’t get me wrong I love a sharp skin fade, however I still find myself drawn to the endless capabilities of shape, structured and texture. So, a lot of my work tends to be longer in length. With scissors, razors, and free hand clippers you can create so much. And I guess my hair collections come back to my desire for versatility, to show the barbering industry the versatility that Barbering can and should be.

Creatively I look to what’s next, what motivates me, what’s walking runways currently and what’s fashion forward. I have a bit of an obsession with our industry and find myself always delving into the new fashion and new techniques in order to educate myself and stay relevant.

Understanding how to manipulate hair shape and structure is one thing but understanding natural texture in hair is another. As barbers, typically working in shorter length, we work more with our eyes opposed to hairdressers that typically work with their fingers.

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So, we are used to looking visually for balance and shape rather than through length and evenness. This is why I love working on textured hair, of all lengths, you have complete freedom to create shape and finish. This is why I always showcase curls and afro hair within my creative collections.

I recently won the Mizutani Global cutting competition’s ‘Edge’ Award for one of my creative works. And regardless of the prizes, the recognition from the industry and my peers, has been the greatest reward.

Competition cutting is a great outlet to push our creativity and something that our industry within Australia has only just started to take to and I’m so happy to see all the amazing work that Australia is producing. It motivates and inspires me.

TOOL TALK…

The quality of tools has really gone up in recent years, I thought the cordless clipper was a revelation but since that moment clippers have just continued to improve in quality and technology. My go to clippers for probably the last 6 or 7 years have been BaByliss Pro, and I still use my first corded pair on friends at home. I love their power and feel and still haven’t found a trimmer as sharp as the Fx Skeleton, it hits so hard, and I can still have complete faith in that won’t knick or bite.

When it comes to scissors and razors I just can’t look past Mizutani or Excellent Edges. There’s some amazing scissor brands out their now, but I love the performance and sharpness of those scissors even if they’ve cause a scar or two on my fingers. The scissors from those brands really feel like they were designed by people in the industry. their ranges go far beyond the classic barber shear built for scissor over comb and allow me to create an array of shapes and textures.

WET TOOLS…

Product wise I’m American crew, through and through. I’ve literally been using their products since the days cutting in my folks backyard. They’ve got the most comprehensive range of products and really understand that styling isn’t just about the strength of the one product a client uses.

Every client of mine whether they style their hair or not leaves with a pre styling product in, and crew’s range of pre stylers are by far my favourite. Spray clay, spray gel, sea salt sprays, thickening lotions, volumizers and dry shampoos. I find they’ve got something for all lengths and textures. There’s a reason they’ve dominated the men’s grooming industry for so long.

What does it mean to you to share your passion and knowledge on to others? Tell us all about those opportunities and experiences so far…

I began my journey in educating when I moved back to Australia in 2018. I got a job as a full-time educator at Brisbane School of Barbering. Teaching, has really taught me… so much about hair as well, I find being peppered with questions by eager students makes me consider every step, why and if there’s a better way to execute certain techniques.

My greatest passion is not to teach people how to do haircuts but how to cut hair. By understanding how hair falls and supports people who attend my classes can be completely creative with shape, texture, and style.

Currently I’m working as an independent educator/ barber temple educator, doing further learning and workshops for people in industry. Teaching people with an existing skillset how to further that understanding of hair.

What’s around the corner…

As far as the future is concerned I’m looking to move more into commercial, editorial and session styling work. to partner with brands for education and commercial work. As well as continue my own creative collections. So yeah, load more to come! I love the direction and drive our industry has and I’m forever inspired by it. And for that reason, I don’t ever see myself stepping out from behind the chair, however a nice split of clients, education and session styling is my ideal scenario. So, I guess the future for me will be a balance of creative endeavours and still providing a great service for my clients.

@the_sophisticated_scumbag

“My greatest passion is not to teach people how to do haircuts but how to cut hair.”

CLASS ACT

Stacy belongs to a group of the most special people in the world, Teachers. An educator at Queensland’s Barber Academy group nurturing our next generation of Barbers and, expertly so I might add, Stacey brings a wealth of knowledge to the table with her skill sets well over and above. Her life experiences and hair and business skills compound this fact.

Creatively, Stacy was an accomplished colour specialist before even taking on the craft of cutting… something she has long since mastered and made her own if her collections are anything to go by. Bring all that together and you have a formidable force working in the background of our industry…. But, in the near future, I’m sure not just in the classroom.

Now definitely ‘outed’ as a talent, and under the gazing eyes of our industry, thanks to her exploits at the Barber Hub at the 2022 Hair Festival presenting the timeless craft of cutthroat shaving and then her winning AMBA collection and accompanying title, Stacy will most definitely be in demand from not just her students I believe. We look forward to seeing her more in the competition world and on stage educating and demonstrating to the greater industry. Push your chairs in and sit up straight….

Tell us a bit about growing up and how and when you discovered hair…

Growing up I had a rough childhood with both parents suffering with addiction, but those experiences have really shaped me to be who I am and to help break the cycle. I’m originally from Hervey Bay which is a little town near the beach.

Growing up as a red head with freckles made me very shy and lacking confidence but playing netball made me feel confident and strong. I played club netball which meant every weekend I was playing a game, two nights a week training and one night a week doing cardio training as I was a couple of years younger than the rest of my team.

I literally had the best coach who was supportive on and off the court. We eventually moved to Brisbane where I attended Capalaba State College and lived with my two older sisters. I kind of fell into hairdressing and I don’t know if I even knew if it was something I wanted to do. In my high school we didn’t have school on a Wednesday, so we had the option to take the day off, do a certificate at TAFE or an apprenticeship. At the time I was living with my two sisters who encouraged me to do the certificate 2 in hairdressing at TAFE rather than just having the day off. I realised when I was at TAFE that this was something that came very naturally to me and unlike school, I could retain the information and it all just made sense. School wasn’t for me, but I did stick it out as it was compulsory to be able to complete my certificate 2. It’s actually funny during year 12 I was offered a barbering apprenticeship and I felt like barbering wasn’t for me which is hilarious because I now teach barbering and have my own barber business. After I finished my certificate two I went into a hairdressing apprenticeship which taught me more than just hair.

My boss at the time was very big on education so I spent a lot of my RDO’s at Wella education classes. The educator I had at Wella I do believe is who shaped me and made me realise that education is eventually something I wanted to do. His passion and excitement when teaching and watching us learn was inspiring. I do believe the boss I had shaped me as well. She was ruthless but she did invest a lot of time and money into me. I think her behaviour taught me what not to do when I had my own team and how important respect for your staff is regardless of their position in the company.

For 8 years I specialised in colouring and rarely did any haircuts that wasn’t just a solid form with forward graduation. I was actually terrible at cutting men’s hair and it took me a really long time to grasp the concept. In 2014 I went abroad to do hairdressing on cruise ships. This is when I was introduced to barbering and men’s grooming services. Two years later when I returned to Australia after cruise ships and living in India, I went back into hairdressing and realised within hours of being there that barbering was my next chapter, so I went and did my barbering apprenticeship rather than RPL while being the head barber in the shop I worked in.

When covid hit I had just started my TAE course (Cert 4 Training and Assessment) and I was managing two stores when we had to close temporarily which is what made me go out on my own and to apply at The Barber Academy which I was originally hired to teach a certificate 2 in salon assistant one day a week on the Sunshine Coast. Within two weeks of starting, I was asked to come on board pretty much full time to teach the certificate 3 in barbering.

You are a senior educator at the Barber Academy, tell us what you get out of this and your observations of your students and the industry in general?

I think a lot of people think education is easy and anyone can demonstrate a haircut. It’s actually really challenging and rewarding at the same time. Working at an RTO is challenging because we have very strict guidelines of what we need to train the students in, but both The Barber Academy and I believe that it isn’t really up to industry standards, so we do add extra workshops and contend to make sure our students are as industry ready as possible.

We don’t just teach them how to cut hair, we cover the cost of running a barbershop, what is acceptable communication inside the barbershop and how important our mental health is. As well as giving them opportunities to do photoshoots and to having training sessions with Area Academy, an addition we are very proud of providing our students. Starting a new career when you haven’t studied in a long time is difficult and can be daunting. During the course the students become part of your barber family and you spend an entire year bonding with them watching them struggle with different aspects of cutting for example, to come out the other side so confident and proud of what they have achieved.

It’s rewarding watching how proud of themselves they are when they complete a haircut or a shave without assistance. Not only does it make them a confident barber but watching the students realise their true passion and come out of their shell as a person is amazing. There are obviously lows throughout the course and its heart breaking to watch when they haven’t done a haircut to their normal standards, and you see how much it affects them or when they have such doubt in their abilities when your know how amazing they are.

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You run your own studio to service your exclusive client base, tell us about your services and customer service… please talk about your love of the cutthroat razor

I work at The Barber Academy Monday to Friday and still cut hair on Saturdays and Tuesday nights. At this stage I haven’t actually taken on new clients since I started my own studio, and I don’t think I will be for a while. I’m a strictly appointment only and I do run longer appointment times as I’m a bit of a perfectionist and almost all of my clients have a fade with either a beard trim with cutthroat line up or some form of facial waxing.

I focus more on the experience rather than just the haircut. My clients have become close friends of mine so it’s like catching up with friends that I haven’t seen for a few weeks. I try to provide my clients with a safe space to talk about whatever they feel they need to without judgement while helping with their confidence about their appearance. All of my clients have a cutthroat in some form or another, whether it be just the back of the neck, beard line up or a fullface shave. Cut throating would have to be my favourite part of barbering. Everyone has a structure or a haircut that they do where they get into the zone and feel relaxed, this is how I feel with the cutthroat. My clients are being pampered with the service and I’m switching off and going into my relaxed space where my mind isn’t running at 100 miles an hour.

LET’S

TALK ABOUT TOOLS!!

Scissors… What do you love and why?

Excellent Edges Marlin’s for slicing and personalizing my haircuts with minimal effort. With the scissors being offset it is incredibly comfortable and I don’t notice any fatigue.

Excellent Edges Stingray’s for my blunt cutting. I love a larger blade rather than a slim pointy blade. With the unique blade it doesn’t push the hair when you’re trying to do a blunt cut. It just cuts through the hair like butter

Excellent Edges Barracuda’s perfect for creating texture and removing bulk. I love them because they never feel like they are pulling the hair

Machines… What do you love and why?

I absolutely love my Wahl Seniors. These have been my goto for the past 5 years. I love the weight of the seniors and how powerful they are. They cut through thick hair quickly and give it a seamless fade. I literally recommend these to anyone who listens.

Razor Handle and preferred blades?

Has to be the Bluebeard Cutthroat razor and astra blades. The Bluebeards butterfly clip is fantastic! The blade doesn’t sit out too far creating the flicking sound when razoring the hair. The astra blades are versatile and durable. Astra blades are a great thickness and sharpness. I’ve tried countless blades and I always come back to these as my go to.

What care and styling products to you choose to use and why?

This is a hard one as I have 3 brands that are my go-to depending on client. I love the Slick Gorilla Sea Salt and volume powder, Burly Sea Salt, and pomade as well as VITAMAN Bondi Waves Sea Salt and Matt Mud. I really love styling my clients hair with sea salt and then using a finishing product. Sea salt just gives it a perfect foundation to work with.

You are the current Australian Modern Barber of the Year winner in the “Classic Collection” category, walk us through that, the process of the shoot, the inspiration behind the looks and the night you won, as well as the impact this has had on you and those around you?

I didn’t enter the AMBA thinking I would actually win. One of my main motivations was the experience I would have and to help my students gain confidence. Three of my students actually took part in the photoshoot and one of them actually entered and was a finalist in the apprentice category which I’m incredibly proud of him for.

So, with the intentions of it being about experience I actually worked with haircuts that I loved doing. My collection was

based on respecting the trends that recycle over the years with putting my own twist onto it. I tried to do haircuts that weren’t anything like each other. I wanted to be able to show that I have a skill set that is adaptable to any hair type and style. The photoshoot day was incredibly stressful, and I was very lucky to have the support of Gareth, Jase and Josie from Zeppelin Barbers, my students, and the incredible photographer Drew Dennis. I actually messaged Gareth the day before the photoshoot stressing because one of my models pulled out and thankfully, one of his friends stepped up for me, but it did come with its own challenges.

We arrived at 8am in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast after cutting after school until 10:30pm the night before in the Brisbane campus. When we got there I styled and finished off two of my haircuts that I didn’t get a chance to finish earlier, as well as a complete restyle for the crop that I created. We were in a warehouse with a flight of stairs leading up to a shipping container that had two down lights in which is where I did the crop and the mullet with two students doing finishing touches. At one point we had phone torches on the go because they needed the downstairs lights off for the photos. I definitely got the experience side of it.

I 100% think the classic collection suited my style and personality to a T and I don’t think the freestyle genre is for me because I like clean, simple, and textured looks. Nothing beats feather razoring when producing a layer to create a textured finish or club cutting the fringe of a crop rather than going straight in with outliners. I think scissor work in classic haircuts is vital and often overlooked. Naturally we pick up our clippers and do clipper over comb for a majority of things but scissor over comb really does have a place for those textured looks.

As for the night in Melbourne at AMBA was insane. I went in thinking I stood no chance so I had a fair-few wines and chatted to every barbershop that I could possibly speak to trying to get all my students future jobs. When my category came up I was clapping and cheering for everyone as there was so many amazing barbers in my category that truly did deserve to win so when I did hear my name I was so shocked that the people at my table had to tell me to get up and that it was my name. As for my speech it was priceless and the video of it makes everyone laugh. I wasn’t prepared, I was in shock and a few wines too deep with so many emotions and unsure of how to feel. I had literally spent the day telling my student how he needed to prepare a speech just in case and here I was completely unprepared.

I do think having won the award has made the students realise that it is possible. That they can do this and even if they don’t win it’s all about the experiences and at the end, they get some awesome pictures for their own collection if they choose not to enter. Also, when you get a new intake of students you do hear the “are you a hairdresser” “can you actually cut hair” “can you even fade” so it is nice for them to see before they even enrol that they are being taught but someone who knows their way around a pair

of clippers and scissors. So, what’s next for me? I will be entering AMBA barber of the year this year and I’m also heading down to Newcastle to enter in the Wahl Barber of the year comp in March with a few of my students entering the apprentice category. The Wahl barber comp isn’t my style of barbering but I’m willing to step out of my comfort zones to grow as a person and a barber. I’m not going to lie cutting weekends, working full time at The Barber Academy as well as trying to enter awards it is a hard balancing act especially considering how easily I can be distracted from the task I’m doing so it takes a lot of focus and list making. I am incredibly lucky that I do have a very supportive husband who comes to all these events and picks up my slack in our home life.

60 SECOND SPEED DATE:

What music are listening to this week on your playlist?

Anyone that has ever met me knows how bazaar my playlist is. It literally ranges from Hooligan Hefs to Calvin Harris to Milky Chance. My playlist is based on my mood, and I love it as more of a background noise.

What is your favourite Movie?

I actually have two movies that are my all-time favourites and I’m still obsessed no matter how many times I watch them. They are “A Night at the Roxbury” and “Superstar” (Both starring Will Ferrell)

Favourite Food?

I’m pretty basic to be honest. I would happily eat a bowl of spaghetti Bolognese or a Cherry Ripe chocolate

Are you watching anything on TV…favourite series maybe?

I love Animal Kingdom and Peaky Blinders. I’ve literally just finished the latest season of YOU (NETFLIX)

Favourite destination?

This is really hard. I’ve been aboard a lot, but I haven’t seen much of Australia. I think I would have to say Prague and Venice. These two places have part of my heart

Reading anything or podcasting anything?

I actually hate reading which is hilarious considering I teach the theory side of barbering as well as practical. I do love a serial killer podcast while getting ready for work. Bailey Sarian has definitely nailed this.

The Boy From Alligator Creek

BY REX A.C. SILVER

Based in Mackay, North Queensland, Heath Paton is an awesome Barber loved by his clients and by his staff with 2 guys nudging 10 years’ service…each!! As well as being an incredible barber, he is an artist, a fashion designer, business manager and owner, a national educator for Wahl and I think I’ve seen him behind the turntables too!

There is a hell of a lot of layers to this guy living his best life in FNQ and why not? He has worked hard to get his 2-chair operation up to a whopping 9 chairs. It was great pleasure to meet and interview a creative who shopped himself around many artistic fields before focusing in on the one he feels… in his own words...is Home!

He picked a little from here and a little from there and put it all in a pot. What a clever way to go!!

This is Heath Paton’s journey:

Where did it all start Heath?

I grew up in rural north Queensland amongst the cane fields in a small community called Alligator Creek, set about 30 mins south of MacKay. Not exactly the stereotypical setting for someone with aspirations of leaving a footprint on the hair and fashion world… but to be fair my whole childhood I thought I was going to be a professional soccer player.

Soccer was the main focus for most of my youth, travelling all over Australia and internationally for many years. It’s so tough when your young deciding on what the bigger picture will be and it wasn’t till the age of 16 that I started realising I had quite a creative streak and gravitated towards the arts more.

I was still at high school when I started completing make up and cosmetology courses, [remember this was the 90’s in rural Queensland]. I knew that my passions in life went against the grain which made it quite challenging at times, so I hid most of those creative interests from the world so as not to face ridicule.

Painting and sculpture started to become a passion and gave me a greater sense of shape and dimension, ultimately aiding to the way I approach hair today looking back. My family were always so very supportive of whatever direction I would ultimately choose and have ridden the waves of an emerging artist along with me.

How and when did you discover hair and know this was your calling?

I remember the exact moment I wanted to dive into the hair industry. I stumbled into a hair show by accident tagging along with a friend completely last minute.

The moment I stepped into the room I was met with this overwhelming energy that was so inescapable. Bright lights and colours and loud electro music, but it was the energy, the passion, the vibe, it was the whole package that sealed it for me, I was home.

It was practically immediately after that that I embarked on my journey. My aunt opened the door for me working in the studio she was at. Doing all the normal basin and tea and tidy work which eventually led to my hairdressing apprenticeship. It wasn’t long into my apprenticeship that I knew my passion would be for cutting, all those years of sculpture and painting really started to come in handy with understanding cutting structures.

“The reliability of WAHL Clippers has flowed through… inadvertently giving me a stronger ability throughout my cutting career, simply because of the confidence I have with them in my hand”.

By the 3rd year of my hairdressing apprenticeship all I wanted to do was cut hair, now mix this with the newly acquired interest for fashion and design that I had running through my veins…I was on a creative high… I used that inner drive and moved across to complete a barber apprenticeship focusing on traditional techniques and freehand clipper cutting.

I’m a firm believer that once you know all the rules then you can start to break them, so I really worked on breaking the mould of a stereotypical barber and started altering conventional design concepts and infusing my art via hair tattoos and trackwork.

Even all those years ago now I remember the goal would ultimately be for me to get on the stage Infront of people and show my work, under the bright lights and loud music like the show from years before. I think moving forward with everything I aim to achieve in the industry I always try to recreate that energy, that infectious vibe.

Whether its inside my studio or when I’m onstage lecturing or cutting Infront of audience I really aim for that entertainment factor. it’s that drive I feel keeps me pushing... that pursuit for more, that pursuit for perfection, not perfection itself; the pursuit, the journey for greater, is where the magic happens. that’s where the ideas and creativity are found.

Please tell us all about HPHFM, your team, your business ethos and philosophy towards customer service and the experience you guests receive at your shop.

I opened HPHFM back in 2012, with only 60 sq/m, two chairs and myself cutting. it got to a point where I needed to be in a space where I could be me, where I could not only showcase and promote my skills but also surround myself unapologetically with my influences and inspirations. At the start of the journey the letters stood for “Heath Paton Hair For Men” as we thought we were a barbershop but if wasn’t long after we realised it was more than that. I remember opening my shop one day a young kid said to me, “Heath, your barbershop has a halfpipe skateboard ramp in it and a DJ booth and graffitied walls from floor to ceiling and so many hats and clothes for sale, why”? I just said. “‘cause I can.” which he replied, “I’m glad you did”. That was a huge thing for me.. I’ve invested so much of myself into HPHFM.. so much of my

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culture and influence and people get it…. Even the kid got! And so did my staff, 2 of my longest serving barbers and dear friends, Jordan Muscat and David Homewood understood what HPHFM was about and believed in the journey and have been alongside me for the last 10 years helping HPHFM become what it is today.

Later on, we changed the HFM to Hair, Fashion, Motivation which created the perfect segway for me to promote my fashion design again and the drive behind creating a label as opposed to just a barbershop. Fast forward to 2023 and we’ve grown to 300sq/m and 9 chairs… the skate ramp has been swapped for a pool table but that same drive to create culture and community is ever present.

TOOL TALK

Clippers:

I’ve been using WAHL clippers my entire career…. that’s 20 something years now… the concepts behind freehand clipper cutting and clipper over comb techniques really captured my focus and as I evolved inside the industry so did the range of clippers which in turn helped me achieve new heights and break more boundaries.

The reliability of WAHL Clippers has flowed through… inadvertently giving me a stronger ability throughout my cutting career….. simply because of the confidence I have with them in my hand, and they have always been my staple tool set, so, you can begin to imagine how big of a deal it was when I was invited to become an ambassador and educator for WAHL. All those years of dedication and loyalty finally paid off. I actually have and use every WAHL clipper that’s on the Australian market in my toolkit. On the daily you’ll see me with the cordless Magic Clip, Super Taper, and the Legend but my favourite go- to’s at the moment are the cordless Legends, but if I’m completely honest I utilise every clipper dependent of hair type and desired outcome.

Scissors:

I’m terrible with scissors I dance around with a few different brands and my main need is size, I use a 6/ 6.5 inch. I do up to 30 clients a day, so I struggle to find a pair that stays sharp long enough. I’m yet to fall in love with a brand or style.

What haircare and styling products do you choose to use and on-sell to your customers.

I use a lot of uppercut deluxe products. pretty much all of them but my favourites are the matte pomade and clay. I think what drew me toward the brand at first was the culture and look, but now I understand each product and what they individually achieve for styling purposes I love the range, it has every base covered and I love the relationship I have the team. Instore, also, we have the King Brown range and I’m a huge fan of the original pomade. firstly, the scent is a killer, but the hold does wonders for a slick back look. if you aren’t familiar with it go check it out, ask for it by name.

When did you first get to educate and what does it mean to you to share your passion and knowledge with others?

Education and giving back has always been paramount for me. I think growing up in a rural scene where education in hair was limited, powered my drive to share my knowledge. after training some apprentices instore I shifted my focus to the broader community conducting look and learns up and down the coast. Perhaps it was the memory of the struggle starting out when I was young or the passion for sharing the industry to future artists that kept me wanting to be on that stage which in turn granted me the opportunity to become an educator for WAHL. I’ve been blessed to meet and work alongside some of the most creative artists in the industry. Being a part of the WAHL bootcamp was such an amazing experience and something I will never forget, and I really want to give thanks to the rest of my team, Rob Szincsak, Ben Kane, Jaymes Lunn, Yuki kano, Sarah Wall, Celine Kaponias, Mark Rabone, Anthony Nafatali. To be a part of such a talented and supportive team is such a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

The whole mindset change was an evolution in itself, learning to think global not local and only made possible thanks to Mr Simon Shaw and Amanda Callaway. understanding just how far I’d come from that rural country boy who stumbled into a hair show and now I’m on main stage launching the WAHL cordless legend to the nation at barber temple. The support I’ve received from the industry has been overwhelming and surreal.

family. so much is happening now and I’m so truly grateful. For me personally, becoming an educator for WAHL has to be not only my biggest industry accomplishment but an achievement I’ve always wanted and certainly aimed for, and I am beyond excited for what the future brings. not just for me, but for everyone who has been a part of the journey. All my clients past and present who have watched the evolution and scene the hard yards and sacrifices made. Getting on stage now I get to carry all those who believed in me on my shoulders and that is such a reward in itself.

You are in regional Qld. Tell us how being on the national stage and being recognised as being a leader in our industry on a national level has helped build your business in Mackay.

I think the local front will always be a source of inspiration for me. I never forget where I come from and now walking down the street and the kids recognise who I am and want to know my next move keeps me grounded but driven. I’m always moving forward, and I feel a certain purpose out of people wanting to know what’s next on the horizon. And of course, I’m always busy aiming for more so there’s plenty to report. we’re currently on the hunt for new apprentices now in Mackay and are working on a few new concepts moving forward. I recently started a podcast on YouTube and we’re recording weekly to grow our audience at present. Also working in with a lot of local youth organisations and first nations projects reaching out to the next generation to offer guidance and mentor type opportunities. I think with any type of success comes responsibility. for me I see a responsibility to my family, friends, and community, and if I can give them any bits of guidance or advice that they can use to propel themselves forward, that is such a reward. And finally, EDUCATION. I’m getting out into the far north Queensland communities with a lot more education so if anybody in North Queensland wants me to stop in and pass on some knowledge keep a look out because I’ll be coming to a town near you.

@heathpaton @hphfm

Who’s got your back? The AHC has your back!! The AHC has our back!!

Here is a quick run-down on an industry association that has helped shape the Hair Industry as we know it. If you didn’t know about them or have been meaning to join and wonder what they mean to the Barber Industry, then we decided to ask CEO, Sandy Chong for you!

WHAT IS THE AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSING COUNCIL?

The AHC is a member organisation whose sole purpose is for the betterment of the industry across a wide spectrum of objectives. We work on uplifting our industry’s reputation, image, and credibility.

We support, inform, and connect our community around Australia. Representing our Industry to the Government and the media is one of our key drivers.

We advocate for businesses, education, and training.

WHO REPRESENTS THE BARBER INDUSTRY?

Creating an Industry body does not happen overnight! In fact, it has taken 12 years for the Australian Hairdressing Council to build our network and reputation as the trusted representative for the industry.

Currently, Barbering does not have an Association that is unique to its industry, therefore, the Barber Industry defaults under the AHC, as we have much in common, for example, the Award, apprenticeships, and skills shortages.

WHY DOES THE AHC SPEAK ON BEHALF OF THE BARBER INDUSTRY?

Government departments, regulators like the FWO and ATO, politicians and bureaucrats, treat barbering under the same banner of hairdressing. The AHC represents both Hairdressing and Barbering when we lobby or advocate to the Government.

GIVE ME AN EXAMPLE!

In 2019, Home Affairs announced Hairdressing and Barbering would be taken off the Skills Migration List. The AHC has continually lobbied against this to maintain our position to be able to sponsor overseas barbers and hairdressers. This meant countless submissions and meetings with Ministers and Senators, the Department of Home Affairs, Department of Employment, Department of Education, the Senate, the Skills Commission, roundtable meetings and even the media. We’ve invested a lot of time (and money) to protect both of our industries.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?

What’s in it for you? The AHC understands the challenges that all small businesses experience. As hairdressers and barbers, we may be great at our craft, but few of us wear ALL the “hats” that we are expected to wear as the owner of a business. Employment law is confusing, yet the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) maintains you should know everything. Exploitation of staff and wage theft is on the agenda of the FWO. Renting a chair? Be sure to have a contract, otherwise the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and FWO may decide your contractor is an employee… And the fines are substantial.

I CAN’T GET STAFF. WHAT’S THE AHC DOING ABOUT THIS?

The AHC launched HeadHunter Recruitment Australia to help the hairdressing, barber and beauty industry find staff. AHC members get a $100 discount on all packages. The platform we use is AI driven to find applicants across many recruitment boards and will target your ads at candidates, wherever they may be when online.

SO, WHAT’S A MEMBERSHIP WORTH?

What is it worth to any business owner to feel assured that they have access to unlimited HR advice, business resources, be included in a likeminded network and community to answer questions and give support, plus know there is an experienced organisation that has the interests of small business at heart when speaking to the Government? How much would it cost to engage advice outside of the AHC?

OK, BUT WHAT’S IT REALLY GOING TO COST ME?

Membership fees are tax deductable! You can pay monthly or save $$ and pay annually.

Sole traders’ fees are $416 paid annually or $39 paid monthly. Businesses with staff pay $1029 annually or $95 monthly.

WHAT ELSE DO I GET?

The AHC has several member benefits and support. Our Associate Member network covers education, insurance, leasing advice, how to buy or sell your business, accountants, software, payment platforms, advertising and marketing, business coaching, salon design, suppliers, and also support on mental health, including suicide intervention and prevention, understanding domestic violence, supporting charitable community events such as Short Back and Sidewalks and Hair Aid. Our industries love to help the homeless in our community.

I WANT MORE…

Business podcasts and short videos on business tips, advice, and information. An active social media community, timely informative EDMs, our annual Leadership Summit, collaborating on the best training for our industry, and so much more. And then there’s SCHMOOZFEST, the AHC’s hugely popular networking event in June - which is exactly that - schmoozing with food and drinks!

WHAT ABOUT BARBER QUALIFICATIONS?

Only in NSW and SA is it mandated that a Barber or Hairdresser must have a qualification to do hair for money! How do you feel about this?

The AHC understands the existing Apprenticeship system and Training Package (what they learn at college) does not suit the Barber Industry. Students/apprentices and even employers become demotivated by what they are expected to learn and teach when they just want to cut hair. There are some amazing, skilled barbers in our industry - should they have a qualification?

The AHC regularly meets with all stakeholders to collaborate and consult on what’s the best learning experience for a barber. The outcome is the industry wants skilled barbers. So, what is the best way forward? Let’s talk together and become a part of this important conversation.

WHY HAVE A QUALIFICATION?

This is one way that every individual barber and business owner can uplift the industry’s reputation. The AWARD shows a pay rate for a qualified Barber. We all never imagine and hope that anything will go wrong in our businesses, but consumer complaints and claims are increasing.

HOW CAN WE BETTER THE INDUSTRY?

Being a part of the AHC strengthens our representation with Government Departments that make decisions affecting our barbers and businesses. A fragmented industry does not help an industry voice.

WHAT ELSE IS THERE?

The AHC Barber checklist sets you apart by recognising ethical business practices. It’s recognition for you, your staff, and your clients that you proudly run a professional business. How you can support your industry’s future and sustainability is to join the AHC. We have your interests at heart and want to see your industry respected and valued.

SO…DOES THE AHC WANT TO TAKE US OVER?

No, not at all. We are committed to the betterment of the industry and offer support for information when needed.

HOW DO I JOIN?

Simply via the website https://www.theahc.org.au/memberships

www.theahc.org.au

Facebook. @AustHairdressingCouncil Phone: (02) 4929 6098

From Country Girl to CEO

Anna De Sanctis pulls no punches when it comes to business. A focused and successful businesswoman who runs one the biggest Barber empires in Australia.

The multi-award-winning Barber Boys chain and Barbery the Craft of Barber Academy, in tandem, with her husband Don. Here, Anna, CEO of the Barbery and Business and Brand Development leader behind Barber Boys shares her story with us.

Tell us who Anna De Sanctis is, where you grew up, your early working life to meeting husband Don De Sanctis and the obvious love of working together that you share. You can take the girl out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the girl. I am a country girl at heart. I am licensed and own a firearm. I love fishing, love classic cars, I don’t mind getting my hands dirty and own a plethora of pets, goats, chicken, dogs, and cats. Pets have this unconditional love that can never be questioned.

My earliest childhood memories start as early on in the 80’s, when I lived on a property 2 hours’ drive, from Adelaide in mid north of SA. A place called Tothill Creek. My parents owned and operated a piggery whilst my brothers, sister and I attended Eudunda Area School. We were the only Italians in the whole school. The freedom of playing on the open land, with clean air, with no fast food or sugary treats, no outside influences, an abundance of animals, this was heaven. Our jersey cow ‘Primavera’ which means springtime in Italian produced fresh milk every morning, there were lambs and piglets born during the evening, yabbies in the dam, and we would go frog hunting in the creek, the very place where I also fell into the creek and had a close encounter with a red belly black snake, which my brothers saved me from. This was all a part of being a country kid. These were my best memories as a child. Back then, it was just the simple farm life. The early 80’s was a very tough time for farmers, I remember the sporadic train trips into Adelaide with mum during this time. Mum was juggling banks to keep the farm afloat, whilst being a mum. She was a hustler, and a very strong and independent woman who I adore. Both my parents worked extraordinarily hard to provide a life of opportunity for their children and this hard-working ethic is instilled in me and I am eternally grateful for this upbringing, my parents are the reason why I am not afraid to work tirelessly for the good things in life. In the mid 80’s, my family moved to Adelaide. What a shock, men and women with big hair, men with makeup, the band Europe had their hit song ‘Final Countdown’, and I couldn’t understand where the heck was I? What was I watching on TV? A new school, new people, an abundance of cultures and the first time I laid eyes on a Commodore 64. I enjoyed high school, an all-girls Catholic school, run by a nun, that referred to boys as ‘hairies’. Following my completion of year 12, I won Miss Italy and was awarded a scholarship to the Adelaide Legal and Commercial College. I always wanted to be a lawyer, but after my stint at Adelaide Legal College l applied for employment with an International Oilfield company called Schlumberger and at the age of 18 travelled to Singapore to learn a new system that was to be installed in all mining and transport trucks. This was a safety tool used to register if the driver took adequate breaks etc I brought back my learnings and implemented this system in the mining industry, and to date I believe this system is still utilised. I was first introduced into the hair industry through my sister who worked for Hair Machine in the late mid to late 90’s. This company was intense when practicing for competitions and strict working requirements required to be part of their team, was like

no other salon of its time. My sister took part in the International Hair Stylist Society Hair competition in this particular year, 1992. The IHS was huge. Full of glam and prestigious hairdressers competing live on stage. At this comp, there was a men’s section and I remember at the tender age of 14 watching the show supporting my sister alongside my mum. In those days the flat tops were in, very manly muscly men and the American footballers with black paint and shoulder pads strutted their stuff, pretty sure there was a flat top rockabilly model and even maybe an Elvis… but then out of nowhere this guy jumps on stage, he had leopard spots dyed into his bleach blonde short cropped hair with leopard spots painted on his ripped body, leopard pants, he was gorgeous, so different to everyone else and so comfortable in his own skin… from that day on, my mum referred to him as the ‘leopard guy’.

I met Don in the late 1990’s after returning from Singapore, although as destiny would have it this wasn’t the first encounter. Don’s creativity, charisma and overall love of life is what won me. When Don told me that he was a trained hairdresser I couldn’t believe it, it turned out that Don was the same guy that my mum referred to as the ‘leopard guy’.

Don and I were married in 2000, when I was 21 years old, we now have three beautiful children and along the way opened 24 Barber Boys stores, an Academy, Salon Bargain Hunters, endured a pandemic and still sit here to tell the tale.

Don and I are one of those freak couples that can work together

AMBA 2022 BEST

without wanting to kill each other. From very early in our relationship, we have worked together, and we know it works well. Like everybody, we have our off days, but for me, it is such a great feeling to be able to work alongside someone I so deeply care about. Don and I are lucky that we share the same interests and together have watched our empire grow. I have always been searching for my happy place and living in suburbia would often drive my anxieties high. Now, several years later, after years of hard work, I have my own piece of paradise and freedom, my solitude, my property in the Adelaide Hills which I absolutely love. I often feel my dad’s presence since his passing, he loved the land, I have no doubt that I inherited that same love from him.

Business has always been a passion for you, but it didn’t start in hair. Tell us about the ‘food and Darwin move’ and what you learned from that business experience. In mid-2000, after being recently married, an opportunity arose for both Don and I to be involved in the establishment of the very first Fasta Pasta in Darwin. We embraced this opportunity and within 2 months we had relocated to the Northern Territory. It was there where I developed and implemented business strategies an ethos that we instil in our business’ and through to my staff to this day, that is to work hard, and nothing comes easy. We worked 14+ hour days and would come home in our uniform and fall asleep, waking the next day still in our uniform. That life was relentless, but I am grateful for the experience, this built us our solid foundation and we only had each other. Today we still rely on each other, no matter what there is always one of us to keep the business’ moving forward.

Back to Adelaide, the building of a beautiful family and start of something BIG…

In late 2001, we returned to Adelaide, where I was employed as an Immigration Officer for the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. I remained at the Department for 17 years, in several roles which included Onshore Compliance Officer, Onshore Skilled Migration Officer and Airport Inspector in Adelaide and deployments to the Northern Territory where I performed the role of NT Interpreter Liaison Officer at multiple NT Immigration Detention Centres, and as an Immigration Airport Inspector at Sydney International Airport. During this time, I was fortunate to have three beautiful children. This was our turning point as it wasn’t just about us two, we had started our incredible story of being parents and providing for our babies.

It was in 2004, during my lunchbreak working at the Immigration

Department, when everything changed. Negotiating, refinancing our family car, and signing a lease in the Adelaide Central Markets. It was on 1 April 2004, that I handed Don the keys to our very first barber shop and Barber Boys was born! Don was so confused about how the heck I was able to purchase this shop without him knowing also being April fool’s day, it took a lot of convincing Don that it was no joke. Shortly after, one store became two and, on the story, goes, opening 23 stores across SA. The biggest sole operator of Barbershops across Australia and opening Australia’s first nationally accredited award-winning Barber specific RTO. We have had the privilege of watching the Barbering phenomenon explode globally over time, as we were the first to put the barbering industry where it rightfully deserves to be, an industry that is recognised for changing lives. I’m so incredibly proud of this.

Whilst the barbering industry has grown so have our children. Our businesses have provided for our family and have given my family many opportunities to see many parts of the world. This business has also enabled my children to adopt the entrepreneur mindset, they all had their first parttime jobs at the age of 15. My eldest daughter is in her final year of her accounting degree at the University of Adelaide, our second daughter, commenced a school-based hairdressing apprenticeship with an awardwinning salon in Adelaide, and our youngest son, is in high school and has already shown traits of a business mindset, with off selling products and following the stock exchange market. Being raised in a family that focus on business has given my children with the same mind set to not be afraid of work, enjoy good things in life but work hard for it… its more rewarding.

As I mentioned in my acceptance speech at the AMBA awards night, after winning Best Business Director, ‘The work is hard, and the hustle is real” … I meant this, like all people in business would know, that as a director it is crucial to know when to pivot your business and make sound choices. You are ultimately responsible. We took this very seriously particularly during COVID. Don and I decided that we weren’t going to stand any of our staff down. As a result, like a lot of other business, we are still recovering from the pandemic, but I believe in trusting the process. I always remind my children too, that no matter what you’re going through, let time pass and trust the process, its already in front of you whatever is meant to be, everything happens for a reason.

Tell us about the rise of Barber Boys and at what point you decided to open the Barbery.

In 2016, when the Barbering qualification became separate to the hairdressing qualification, we saw a gap in the training

market. Ironically, at the same time we were not completely satisfied with the training our apprentices were receiving at TAFE and decided to ‘pivot the business’. I came up with the idea to open Barbery the Craft of a Barber Academy our very own RTO.

We’d had experience in education as we would hold our inhouse weekly barber boys training program where we would offer a home cooked meal to our staff, their models, and some family members every Wednesday night. I quickly realised that people loved to belong and needed to be part of something. Barbering was on the brink of explosion.

As a businesswoman, I was balancing family and business life, there were times that Don would travel for competitions and expos whilst I was looking after our family and home life, Barber Boys, whilst still being employed at the Immigration Department. I always knew that I was strong and resilient, this just gave me the opportunity to live it. I learnt never to doubt yourself and that fear really means a False Expectations Appearing Real.

Starting the Barbery wasn’t easy and you had many challenges along the way, can you tell us about the challenges, what it taught you and how you navigated the process of becoming a RTO?

2016 was when our Barbery dream come to life. It took over a year of meeting federal and state government compliance requirements to be approved as a Registered Training Organisation under the powers of the Australian Skills Quality Authority. Barbery is approved to deliver the Certificate III in Barbering, Australia wide as well as the Certificate II in Salon Assistant which we contextualise to a barbering environment, to keep our students engaged.

At the time of submitting our application to ASQA, I was also still working for the Immigration Department. Juggling both roles one as an Immigration Officer and the other as the CEO. It was in early 2018 that don, encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and resign from my permanent government position and inaugurally hold the position of Chief Executive Officer of the Barbery on a fulltime basis.

We are required to meet annual reporting requirements throughout the life of our registration. So, it’s not just a case of, once you’re approved, you’re approved. It’s very much the continual monitoring of our operations and meeting registration obligations to keep this dream alive. Owning an RTO has its own challenges, ones that are so very different from owning barbershops. The ongoing compliance requirements against government standards and reporting, the hustle of getting people to understand the value of a qualification in essentially a non-regulated industry and understanding the generational changes of how students learn, at times is challenging, not to mention the list of other challenges that are as long as my arm. In saying that, we’ve been to some pretty cool places along the way. The APY Lands to train the indigenous kids barbering is their purpose-built barbershop shipping container, which Don project managed the development of. Later this year we will be travelling to Port Lincoln, the heart of SA’s Seafood Frontier to teach high schools students the art of Barbering in a weeklong course, maybe we’ll do a great white shark cage dive while we are there! One way or another our team has travelled to every

state and territory in Australia, to Italy, to USA, UK, and China to represent the Barbery and we’ve even been fortunate to do a bit of team building in Darwin along the way.

Tell us about the wins in your journey along the way and how you keep inspired.

My wins, my first and foremost win is that I was able to do this entire journey with Don. We have built and watched the barbering industry explode, side by side. That win is the closest to my heart.

I’ve also met some beautiful souls, students and clients who have now become dear friends. I’ve been able to mentor and share my story and my experiences with others, particularly my students. My wins are when students or apprentices tell me that something I have taught them has helped them in a reallife scenario. It just takes one student. Inspiring others is what makes me tick, having conversations with students about our story, why we did what we did and and how it grew makes me so proud, it also gives me an opportunity to truly reflect on our accomplishments.

You are now a very much an accomplished businesswoman in your own right and this journey has led to you taking on many roles. Can you tell us a little about this…

As the Chief Executive Officer of Barbery, the Craft of a Barber Academy, I am responsible for the overall management of the Academy, as well as the Business and Brand Development leader behind Barber Boys. I provide leadership in the day-today operations of the organisation, my staff, and its resources. I implement and provide direction to my team members and ensure that both organisations have sufficient resources, structure, and processes in place to meet the strategic direction of the Academy and Barber Boys.

To be successful both personally and in business, it is important to surround yourself with people who cheer for you, celebrate your wins, and support you through the tough decisions. I set both high and achievable goals for myself whilst still striving to challenge my own growth and development to live a fulfilled and balanced life, surrounded by my family and those that I love. My goal is to watch my children, grow into confident and successful young adults, ensuring that I have instilled the value and importance of loyalty, humility, compassion, kindness, integrity, and selflessness in them, and to maintain meaningful connections to those who I hold dearly in my heart, the ones who cheer for me.

To be successful in business it’s important to be surrounded by the right team. Those who see the same vision as I do and those who support the overall health of the business.

My goals and ambitions in business are not outrageously ambitious, however the achievements of Barber Boys since 2004 and the Academy since 2016 are nothing short of remarkable. One aim for Barber Boys is that it remains a household name for years to come and to ensure the longevity of both Barbery and Barber Boys, making certain that their relevance is maintained in an ever-changing environment and to know that we have done the very best to build the industry we love through education. The other being to embark on new and exciting projects that allow us to push creative boundaries, deliver training all over Australia, and perform to our ultimate capacity as well as to

encourage my team to learn and continue to grow and develop.

I want to inspire them by providing leadership that ensures that they are comfortable to be themselves and encourage them to utilise their strengths and express my appreciation for all the hard work that goes into building a business-like Barber Boys and Barbery from the ground up.

Mental Health and making a difference…

Another area that I am passionate in educating both my staff and students in is Mental Health. I am a Mental Health First Aid accredited trainer and deliver training to my staff and students tailoring and contextualising the training specific to a barbering/ hairdressing environment. Most recently, I opened my course to external barbering and hairdressing salons, as it’s an important topic that our staff and students are faced with every day, servicing the public.

All the roles and positions that I have undertaken over the years has shaped the person that I am today.

I have always been interested in Mental Health as I have some very close people that suffer from this and know the impact it makes not only on that person but also on the family members. This is the reason that I became a Mental Health First Aid Instructor.

I also take part in a program called Awaken Lifestyles. This has taught me many life lessons to incorporate into my daily routine. Such as setting daily intentions, mindful meditation and discovering your worth, which sadly due to cultural wiring has taken me in my 40s to learn. One of the most important lessons this program has taught me is the importance of keeping your circle positive, not everyone around you is sincerely happy for you. I often reiterate to my students that it is important to keep a good circle of people around you, it doesn’t need to be a quantity of people, just true good quality of people. Family friends that cheer for you, the ones that don’t limit your boundaries. I have completed my Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. On our scope of registration at the Barbery we are introducing the Certificate IV in Leadership and Management and contextualising the training to a salon environment for the future leaders of our business.

Over the years I have immersed myself in industry events such as the Bologna trade Fair, Haircare Summit in Vanuatu, Bali Pause Retreat.

I’ve joined self-development groups e.g., Awaken Lifestyles and my hobbies include being part of the gun club and also fishing for relaxation.

Our team takes part in team culture building which includes -

True Grit, 10km of a military style obstacle course with over 30 obstacles, this year we have team Barber Boys entering, and Project Break - Axe Throwing and Smash Session. Its all about continually building the culture of Barber Boys.

Finally, can you share with us how being a business leader makes you feel and any future plans you may want to share…

Being a recognised business leader in the barbering industry makes me feel accomplished and proud. Although, being a woman in the industry hasn’t been easy, I’ve had to work hard for my position. My past experiences in working within male dominant environments at early stage in my life has built the resilience and strength I have today. I assert my space and power and generally have found that if you give a person the respect, it is reciprocated. It is important to listen non judgementally and offer support when needed.

Barbering is one of the oldest professions, dating back to the ancient Egyptians in 5000 B.C where respected men such a priests and men of medicine were known to be the first of their trade. Knowing that I’ve made an impact as a woman in this male dominant environment is humbling but empowering and I hope that any young female barber or business entrepreneur reading this can be inspired to take a leap of faith, just like I did. Just remember, so much more goes on behind the scenes then anyone cares to talk about and if it gets hard, don’t give up, life’s not going to be Disneyland. Sometimes it’s going to be hard, really hard and a hustle, that’s the reality. Always be kind and fair, but not stupid, some people have motives, and are very good at disguising themselves, but this is where you don’t let foolishness and a soft heart hurt your business. Stick up for yourself and what you have built no matter who the person is that’s trying to take you down, I say ‘good luck but Im not going anywhere, your behind us for a reason.’

What’s happening on the home front you ask? There’s a lot of restructuring happening, we are aligning with some big brands in the industry, will be launching the Barber Boys Academy this year and our product line will be available shortly, hitting the hands of every barber very soon. Don and I are constantly working on the business, pivoting, and exploring new opportunities. So, stay tuned, we both still have a lot of petrol left in the tank.

@annadesact @barberboysau

@barberyaustralia

Eclectic Education

The Barbery is not like your standard Registered Training Organisation. An eclectic and creative mix of students calls for an eclectic and creative take on training methodology, using progressive pedagogy and real-world skills and experience to build an effective labour force specialising in the ancient art and technique of barbering.

As well as interviewing Anna De Sanctis in this edition of Barbershop, as CEO, we wanted to delve deeper into finding out more about The Barbery, the Craft of a Barber Academy.

Tell us what the Barbery is….

Barbery The Craft of a Barber Academy, affectionately known as The Barbery, is Australia’s first standalone barber academy. Registered under powers of the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), the national regulator for Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) Sector in 2017. The Barbery is not like your standard Registered Training Organisation.

Barbery delivers an education experience unlike any other, our principles are based upon.

World class educators, no job can be done well without the right tools and they’re our weapon. Our educators combined have over 102 years’ experience in the barbering industry and are at the forefront of everything barbering and quite literally live and breathe barbering.

Unbeatable salon environment where students learn on real clients, assess on real clients, and face the rewards and challenges that come with working in a customer service environment.

The foundations are built around heritage and family, with the look, smell and feel of an old-school barber shop and the magic created within what we set out to faithfully recreate. The Barbery combines an inviting ambience with a raw urban style and is contained within 260sqm of learning possibility. At the front is the Barbery student barbershop, boasting a conglomerate of fully equipped cutting stations for student use on clientele, and two

additional training rooms for practical training, theory training, demonstrations, guest education and events. A love of the past doesn’t stretch to learning methods though with the space boasting state of the art facilities.

A Strategic Project team behind the scenes that develops and implements new and innovative training ideas and methods. This includes working with and alongside State and Federal Government agencies.

A Unique hands-on training environment where no student is treated the same as the next. Our trainers develop individual training plans for each student, catering to the individual student’s learning style and needs. Each student receives premium attention in every aspect of their training to ensure an optimal training experience, with small class sizes, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Access and reach to students throughout Australia seeking accredited training and qualifications through skill sets, qualifications, recognition of prior learning and non-accredited training through workshops.

Since its inception Barbery has awarded over 120, Certificate III in Barbering qualifications to students across Australia through full time training, apprenticeships, upskilling from hairdressing to barbering and recognition of prior learning.

Talk about the programs and what else is covered… One area that I am passionate in educating both my staff and students in is Mental Health. I am a Mental Health First Aid

accredited trainer and deliver training to my staff and students tailoring and contextualising the training specific to a barbering/ hairdressing environment. Recently I opened my course to external barbering and hairdressing shops as it’s an important topic that our staff and students are faced with everyday servicing the public. I offer the blended method which allows online as well as face to face blended learning.

During the 2021 awards period, the Barbery has seen extensive growth in student numbers. Although Barbery has only ever increased its student numbers it significantly increased throughout the pandemic due to several factors. The most notable being the downturn of the economy and the need for reskilling a skilled workforce and up skilling through education pathways. We developed a new course that would assist any new students to work and study concurrently which provided flexibility with contact hours and theory being undertaken online away from the training academy.

When we were hit with the pandemic, we were given 24 hours’ notice that we were going to close the business, so I pulled out the pasta making machine and had our students make fresh pasta whilst Don cooked the home-made sauce, let’s just say we ate together as a team. ‘Va fun culo covid’ was our new saying so a bit of Italian language was taught too. I had a dear uncle come visit us on that day too, so he too was very impressed by my student’s ability to work under pressure. We had to turn the morale around. All the students had a great time, and when times get tough you just need to step back and look at the issue in another light.

At the academy we have a kitchen area as we are very passionate about homemade cooking, particularly Italian cooking as this is our heritage.

At Barbery we are all about embracing cultures. We have students from all walks of life. This is something that we really embrace and celebrate. On one occasion, we had our middle eastern students cook everyone at the Academy a treat, they had the hot coals burning with hot skewers and middle eastern flavours, the aroma filled the Academy. It’s about acceptance of diversity and inclusion. Not everyone is the same, but all our students are treated equally.

On other occasions, Barbery has sent a group of its students to Haircare Australia, providing and an opportunity to see another aspect of the industry. Students were fortunate enough to participate in hair colouring demonstrations and tour the Haircare facility. Subsequently, students then visited each of the Barber Boys concept stores, Barber Boys, Barber Boys Xpress and Barber Boys and Co. On their return to the Academy, a direct Q & A session with founder and owner and Barbery’s Industry Expert Don De Sanctis took place where students were able to ask business and industry related questions directly. A very important exercise for any student wanting to seek clarity in direction and what the industry has to offer.

It is through the programs that have been developed such as the Pre-Apprenticeship Program and the Barbering Basics that we are able to positively provide opportunities for students wanting to enter the industry through nationally accredited skills sets and qualifications, whilst experiencing other aspects of the industry.

THE TEAM:

Johnny Georgiou joined the team back in 2019, as the Academy’s Artistic Director and our head trainer, and has been training students in RTO’s for over 18 years. As the Head Educator/ Artistic Director, Johnny leads the team of trainers & assessors in the day-to-day training of students within the Academy, as well as providing leadership, mentorship, and direction in training requirements according to an industry standard. Johnny is also our photographer for all things comps and an award-winning barber in his own right, most recently winning the 2021 AMBA Awards for Best Men’s Collection – Freestyle.

Don is our Industry Expert. He provides leadership and advice to students regarding the industry trends and demands as well as providing support to the RTO regarding training methods and changes that are seen in the industry from a domestic and international perspective. Don also relays information from Industry Bodies such as SAHBA and employers back to the Academy about policy changes and is a voice for employers regarding apprentice training methods and delivery.

Carol is my right-hand woman… submissions funding enrolments you name it she does it. Carol is responsible for the day-to-day management of the RTO. This includes but not limited to student engagement, reporting, the management of government projects, program development, awards submissions, government compliance obligations, enrolments, data collection, RTO policies and procedures, stakeholder engagement and overseeing the day-to-day running of the Academy’s live salon floor.

You have turned out so many modern superstars, can you tell us a little about this.

I like to refer to our academy as the Stable of Champions – we have produced some remarkable barbers who are real movers and shakers in the industry, and we are so incredibly proud of each of them. Some have opened their own stores, others are traveling the globe, winning awards, and aligning themselves with global brands.

Luke Munn, 2x AHFA Men’s Hairdresser of Year, 2020 American Crew ASC Global Winner, ANDIS Educator

Robin Lippet, - Attaboy Barbershop

Chop Chop – Celine Kaponias – WAHL Ambassador

Raiden Stone – AMBA 2022 Best Men’s Collection Junior of the Year

Nick Kourtis – Modern Pirate Ambassador – 2021/22

AWARDS/ACCOLADES Highlights included:

- 2022 AMBA Best Business Director/Owner of the Year

– Anna De Sanctis

- 2022 AMBA Best Men’s Educator of the Year - Barbery the Craft of a Barber Academy

- 2022 AMBA Best Men’s Collection Junior – Raiden Stone

Barber Boys

- 2021 AHFA Excellence in Education – Barbery the Craft of a Barber Academy

- 2021 AHIA Educator of the Year - Organisation FINALIST

The Barbery

- Asia Pacific Stevie Awards Bronze Award for Innovation in Barbering

- 2021 AHIA Men’s Hair Specialist of the Year FINALIST

Johnny Georgiou

cont’d from page 39

- 2021 AHIA Men’s Hair Specialist of the Year WINNER

Anthony Staltari

- 2021 AMBA Best Freestyle Men’s Collection – WINNER

Johnny Georgiou

- 2021 AMBA Australian Barber of the Year FINALIST Don De Sanctis

- 2021 AMBA Best Director – WINNER Don De Sanctis

- 2021 AMBA Team Collection – FINALIST Barbery the Craft of a Barber Academy

- 2021 AMBA Best Classic Collection – FINALIST Lou Fimmano

- 3RD Place– Mizutani Global Cutting Completion – Johnny Georgiou

- American Crew Finalist – Johnny Georgiou

- AHIA South Australian Hairdresser of the Year – Johnny Georgiou

- VET Trainer of the Year Finalist – Johnny Georgiou

Sometimes in life you come across those people who you have the privilege to watch grow into fine young adults. Anthony Staltari is one of them. I first met Anthony in a car park when Don met him to offer him employment, a young 15-year-old cutting hair from his backyard shed, watching him grow and travel the globe New York, UK, photograph, compete and educate makes me incredibly proud of the young man he is today. Also being part of the family, going to his 21st and celebrating with his family there is a sense of family. I’m incredibly honoured, listing his achievements makes me proud:

- Winner of the AHIA Men’s Hair Specialist of the Year 2021

- Finalist for AHFA Men’s Hairdresser of the Year 2020

- Featured in our ‘The Barbery Room’ series on IGTV

- Regularly supports Barbery Academy students on the floor with support and training.

- Mentor and idol to Raiden Stone – AMBA Apprentice of the Year.

Barbering can save, change, and enrich lives and what an amazing career choice it is.

Watching how barbering can save young ones to give them direction in life, and now with extra parts like Mental Health how we can truly change lives of others is what makes me tick. My motto is that if there is one person, we can save in our lifetime

we have done our job on earth. The students we have trained are proof that Barbering can lead you worldwide and last you a lifetime. At Barbery, we are all about inclusion. It doesn’t matter what your past may be, we embrace our students for all that they are and give them the skills they need to be successful. It’s not all about cutting hair.

Expand on the program taking Barbery to the outback…

Currently we are focusing on connecting young people to the industry through education. Most recently this includes engaging in projects and partnerships and developing short courses to be delivered to people that have limited access to training based on location. The most recent projects that come to mind being in the remote South Australian APY Lands training indigenous youth and a pre-apprenticeship program developed and delivered on the Yorke Peninsula. We will be visiting Port Lincoln in the coming months also to deliver barbering training to students at Port Lincoln High School. Also, later this month we will be working with the local students in a Community School to deliver Barbering training to. This is a school for students that are less engaged with mainstream high school. We are excited that we can share our love of barbering with our students as it has this wonderful ability to engage students in learning and keep them wanting to know more, through hands on interactive training. It really does bring everyone together.

The barbering world has given me many years of good times, growth, and a great lifestyle and has enabled me and my family to travel and see other parts of the globe and be at the forefront of where barbering is heading in the future. It’s not stopping, and we aren’t either!

Aligning and working together with the person who is my soul mate, I feel that we have been fortunate enough to see many successes alongside each other, and we will continue to grow and wherever this life takes us we will enjoy and embrace it, in its every form.

Peace!

@barberyaustralia

The AMBA provide the Australian Barbering Industry a much needed and often requested benchmark of excellence and platform to showcase and be recognised for creative and business skills.

OPEN FOR ENTRY 3rd April ‘23

PRODUCT ENTRY DEADLINE 3rd July ‘23

GENERAL ENTRY DEADLINE 21st Aug ‘23 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED 18th Sept ‘23

GALA AWARDS NIGHT 5th November ‘23

AMBA 2023 CATEGORIES.

PHOTOGRAPHIC AND BUSINESS CATEGORIES

Australian Modern Barber of the Year

Australian Modern Barber Business of the Year

PHOTOGRAPHIC CATEGORIES

Best Barber Collection Junior

Best Barber Collection Classic

Best Barber Collection Freestyle

Best Barber Team Collection

BUSINESS CATEGORIES

Best Director/Owner of the Year

Best Customer Care

Best Men’s Educator of the Year (Individual) Best Men’s Educator of the Year (Organisation) Best Barbershop Design of the Year

SPECIAL CATEGORIES

International Modern & Barber of the Year

NOMINATED CATEGORIES Special Recognition & Hall of Fame

CLEAN SKIN PROFESSIONAL PRODUCT AWARDS CATEGORIES

HAIR CARE - Best Shampoo and Conditioner pair or 2 in one product

HAIR STYLE - Best Styling Product. Entries can include:- Styling Wax, Cream or Paste

BEARD CARE - Best Beard Care Product. Entries can include:- Oil, Wax, Cream or Paste

Gala Awards Night 5th November 2023. Plaza Ballroom, Melbourne

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! www.mochagroup.com.au/shop

AMERICAN CREW EDUCATION 2023

With over 100 years’ experience and countless awards between them, the American Crew All-Stars join us in 2023 to share their extensive knowledge with you. Leading the ACED Academy and Inspirational Evenings, our American Crew All-Stars will teach you everything you need to know about men’s grooming.

The certificate course through ACED ACADEMY is targeted to the beginner stylist who will be introduced to American Crew products and will master key cutting and styling skill foundations.

ACED 01

2 DAYS – Day 1 Theory and Shears Day

2 - Clipper Learn the American Crew 5-step cutting regimen. Suites intermediate barbers/ hairdressers $550

ACED 02

2 DAYS – Day 1 and 2 Shears/Clipper/Razor Taking the journey through intermediate to advanced education. Suites advanced barbers/hairdressers $550

Luke Munn - American Crew Global All-Star 2020

THE MODERN MAN

1 DAY – 2 SESSIONS – CHOSE ONE OR BOTH

In the first session Luke will do a Look and Learn. The second session is practical. Suitable for beginners to advanced barbers/ hairdressers $295

Inspirational Evenings with The American Crew All-Stars $55

American Crew Business Course with Mojca Bizjak-Mikic On-Line 3 x 3-hour modules. $595

A Day with an All-Star. Private bespoke education session. Cost: P.O.A.

TOUR DATES

NSW DATES

ACED 01 Day 1. Sydney. 20th March

ACED 02 Dat 2. Sydney. 27th March

Business Seminar Module 1. Digital 1st May Business Seminar Module 2. Digital 29th May Business Seminar Module 3. Digital 19th June

ACED 02 Day 1. Sydney. 7th August

ACED 02 Day 2. Sydney. 16th October

QLD DATES

ACED 01 Day 1. Brisbane 27th February

Inspirational Evening Brisbane 6th March

Business Seminar Module 1. Digital 1st May

Business Seminar Module 2. Digital 29th May

Business Seminar Module 3. Digital 19th June

The Modern Man Luke Munn Brisbane 19th

June

ACED 02 Day 2. Brisbane 28th August

VIC DATES

The Modern Man Luke Munn Melbourne 6th March

Business Seminar Module 1 Digital 1st May

Business Seminar Module 2 Digital 29th May

Business Seminar Module 1. Melbourne 29th

May

ACED 01 Day 2. Melbourne 5th June

Business Seminar Module 3. Digital 19th June

Inspirational Evening Melbourne 14th August

ACED 02 Day 1. Melbourne 21st August

ACED 02 Day 2. Melbourne 4th September

SA DATES

The Modern Man Luke Munn Adelaide 27th March

Business Seminar Module 1. Digital 1st May

Inspirational Evening Adelaide 15th May

Business Seminar Module 1. Digital 29th May

Business Seminar Module 1. Digital 19th June

ACED 02 Day 1. Adelaide 4th September

ACED 02 Day 2. Adelaide 23rd September

How to Book

Talk to your American Crew sales or education rep or email: australia.proeducation@revlon.com

Phone: (02) 88759700

@americancrewoz

www.americancrew.com

American Crew All Stars (Left to Right): Mark Rabone, Gary McKenzie, Lino D’Adderio

Mojca Bizjak-Mikic

Luke Munn - American Crew Global All-Star 2020

FOR THE INDUSTRY BY THE INDUSTRY

MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE BRAND – YOUR PARTNERS IN BUSINESS GENERAL

100% WORTH OF SKILLS Writing Skill 40%

Creativity Skill 20%

Sales & Marketing Skill 50%

Project Management Skill 60%

Industry Knowledge 80%

Time Management Skill 10%

Cooking Skill 20%

Coffee Making Skill 10%

Dancing Skill 10%

Delegation Skill 200% so the skills above add up to 100!!!

Other Skill? Ordering share plates off a menu, Creating a great spotify playlist, Reiki and firewalking!

www.mochagroup.com.au

Years in the Industry 15+ Years (lost count!) Years with Mocha Half my life I am sure!

100% WORTH OF SKILLS

Writing Skill 10%

Creativity Skill 40%

Sales & Marketing Skill 10%

Project Management Skill 0%

Industry Knowledge 20%

Time Management Skill 20%

Cooking Skill 5%

Coffee Making Skill 0% (I prefer mine brought to me in bed!)

Dancing Skill 0%

Drinking Skill 100%... fairly certain I could drink Rex under the table ;) Math Skills Awful... Negative 65%, as you may have noticed from above...

mocha group is made up of a professional team, who have unparalleled combined experience in print and digital media. With added expertise in marketing, PR, communications, brand development, events, awards and competitions servicing the hair, beauty and barber industries, mocha group is a trusted partner for all industry stakeholders, leading by example with integrity, love and respect.

HAIRBIZ/BEAUTY BIZ EDITOR, LOUISE MAY

100% WORTH OF SKILLS

Writing Skill 20% - I love Grammarly

Creativity Skill 10% I am a big picture person, but I suck at the detail.

Sales & Marketing Skill 10% However people buy from people they like and trust, and I am good at building connection and relationships.

GROUP SALES MANAGER

Time Management Skill 5% I have to use the “Pomodoro Method” ie; I set a timer to stay on task.

Cooking Skill 10% Thank god for taste.com

Coffee Making Skill 0%

Don’t need skill with Nespresso machine

Dancing Skill 5% at the start of the night and improve after a few beverages!!

ONLINE EDITOR

CHEREINE WADDELL

Years in the Industry 18+ Years

Years with Mocha 2 Years

100% WORTH OF SKILLS

Writing Skill 20%

Creativity Skill 50%

Sales & Marketing Skill 0%

I leave that to hubby

Project Management Skill 10%

Planning our Alice in wonderland

wedding Industry Knowledge 20%

I’m no spring chicken anymore

Time Management Skill 10%

I love a list

Cooking Skill 10% thanks to hello fresh

Coffee Making Skill 0%

I drink instant coffee!

Dancing Skill 0% Despite years of dance classes as a kid

TOTAL 120% coz im awesome!!!

BARBERSHOP EDITOR REX SILVER

Years in the Industry 39 Years

Years with Mocha 5 Years

100% WORTH OF SKILLS

Writing Skill 1%

Creativity Skill 1%

Sales & Marketing Skill 1%

Project Management Skill 1%

Industry Knowledge 1%

Time Management Skill 1%

Cooking Skill 1%

Coffee Making Skill 1%

Dancing Skill 1%

Other Skill? Drinking - 91%

Master this skill…everything else just falls into place!

Hahaha!

O-MURO CollectioN By Pilar Zaragozá

Pilar Zaragoza presents her O-MURO collection, a proposal that defines the expression of the unexpressed through a forum, a wall where there are no rules, limits or censorship before the diversity of opinion, towards the need to open and communicate without obstructions. A space where to talk, listen and feel, from ire to joy, from fear to courage, where fashion, lifestyle, the incessant search for beauty and its endless expressive evolution are the main protagonists. Inspiration that honours power, strength, showing itself through a polished, simple and direct work technique, without ornament, pomp or distraction.

Hair: Pilar Zaragozá – EOS | MEN

Hair Instagram: @srta.pili_eos @eos__men

Hair Assistant: Leticia Martínez @srta_letii

Photography: David Arnal @davidarnalteam

MUA: Claudia Cuenca @claudia.eos

Styling: EOS|MEN @eos__men

Models: Toño @t.lopez_15 / Oscar @oscarmiraditas / Alfredo @alffuster11 / Martin @martinbuchhaltermontero

Products: Revlon Professional @revlonprofessional_es American Crew @americancrew_spain

POP IMPRESSION

By Roberto Dallo

“Style is the perfume of the look that we wear to leave a mark. It is the reflection of a unique attitude that is seen and breathed, a way of looking and being seen. In this collection we see it through powerful volumes, fresh waves and precise, well-designed haircuts to impress and amaze. These 80s-inspired looks are transformed to be fiercely contemporary, bringing the claim of our personality to the present time.”

Hair: Roberto Dallo Lafuente @robertopeluqueros

Hair Assistant: María Carmona @sanchezmariacarmencarmona

Photography: Jose Urrutia @pjurrutia

Retouche: Javier Villalabeitia @javiervillalabeitia

MUA: Roberto Peluqueros @robertopeluqueros

Styling: Francisco Javier Moral @fco_javier_moral

Products: Revlon Professional & American Crew

@revlonprofessional_es & @americancrew_spain

Models: Zhakin Céspedes, Misha Hill, Anthony Pujols & Adar Lizarbe.

2022 NEW ZEALAND EDITORIAL BARBER OF THE YEAR!

The Industry Awards recognise the best business, training and creative talent in New Zealand’s Hair, Beauty, and Barbering industries.

With awards that celebrate business success, exceptional training, great workplaces, creative styling and HITO apprentices, there’s a category for every hairdresser, barber, or beauty therapist to enter.

The Editorial Barber Awards are for New Zealand barbers who are H&BNZ members wanting to expand their personal brand through photographic competition success.

Barbers demonstrate the ability to compliment and highlight masculine features through design, shape, styling, and grooming.

WINNERS

Editorial Barber of the Year –Gina Eparaima

This category is about demonstrating a progressive look integrated with strong traditional barbering fundamentals.

“Barbering to me is CONNECTION, yes definitely connection!! After all I believe anyone can cut hair, but... can you connect and create a safe space for all people who sit in your chair?”

Editorial Barber of the Year – Next Generation – Joshua Clayton – Kirkwood Barbers

This award is given to a barber who has been employed within the barbering industry for less than four years (as of 31 October 2022). It celebrates the talent of the future of the industry. This award to open to H&BNZ members or those employed in a H&BNZ member salon.

Editorial Stylist of the Year – Hot Shot New Talent – Teancum Matekeua – Ara Institute of Canterbury

This award is given to a stylist who demonstrates a high level of technical artistry, to produce a unique but progressive concept. Attention to current trends while also thinking ahead is a must. This award is open to H&BNZ members or those employed in a H&BNZ member salon.

@theindustryawardsnz

Gina Eparaima

Editorial Barber of the Year – Gina Eparaima

Editorial Barber of the Year – Next Generation –Joshua Clayton – Kirkwood Barbers

Editorial Stylist of the Year – Hot Shot New Talent –Teancum Matekeua – Ara Institute of Canterbury

PSORIASIS CAPITIS

BY PROFESSOR BARRY STEVENS

Scalp Psoriasis - Silvery dry scales on firm raised plaques sometimes with red margins which do not disappear with shampooing. Whereas symptoms of this troublesome disease can often be reduced, ‘cure’ may not be an appropriate word.

This article is published for general information. It is not intended as an aid to self-diagnosis. Professional advice should be sought.

A chronic skin disease effecting 3% of the population (more females than males). It presents in various formats.

Plaque psoriasis is more frequently seen on scalps. It appears as raised inflamed skin lesions topped with silvery white scales. An isolated lesion may exist, but moderate to extensive areas of skin may be involved.

It may also present as small red lesions which increase in size and produce scales which exfoliate easily. Beneath psoriasis scales the skin is red, often serous, tender and may bleed. Severe psoriasis may cover large areas of the body. This article focuses on the scalp.

Psoriasis is not contagious but may be genetically transmitted. Psoriasis affects approx. 3% of the population. Patients with visible psoriasis lesions understandably suffer embarrassment and depression. The cause of psoriasis is unknown, but research suggests white blood cell abnormalities trigger rapid skin cell proliferation and exfoliation. The skin cycle (from basal cell creation to exfoliation) in healthy individuals is approximately 28-40 days. With a psoriatic this period may be reduced to perhaps 3 – 4 days. Recurrences may be seasonal and may be associated with reduced natural sunlight.

Psoriasis comes in many forms.

Nails if affected may be pitted. In extreme cases they may loosen, thicken, and crumble.

Arthritis may co-exist. Some psoriatics suffer arthritis and related functional disability. Arthritis may improve as the skin recovers.

Treatments available.

There is no cure for this disease, but topical and systemic therapies may be helpful. Continuous treatment may be required. Use of keratolytics with careful grattage to remove shedding skin. anti-inflammatory medication, tar lotions and shampoos, special diets, natural sunlight, or judicious ultraviolet irradiation.

PUVA (Psoralen + UVA) is effective in extreme cases. Treatment involves the drug Psoralen + exposure to UVA (Ultraviolet). Many treatments may be required. Psoralen remains in the lens of the

eye; therefore, patients must wear UVA blocking eyeglasses throughout the remainder of the treatment day. PUVA treatments increase the risk of skin ageing, freckling, and skin cancer. Treatment is always monitored.

Medications containing cortisone compounds, coal tar, or anthralin may be used in combination with ultraviolet light. Sunlight and ultraviolet therapy are amitotic (slow the proliferation of skin cells).

Methotrexate. Possible side effects: nausea, dizziness, possible liver disease. Regular blood tests are necessary.

Steroids (Cortisone) weak medications as creams, ointments, and lotions may bring relief. Stronger cortisone preparations may produce as side effects thinning of the scalp with associated adverse effects on hair, bruising, and skin colour changes.

Calcipotriene (synthetic Vitamin D). There may be side effects. Retinoids: contraindicated in pregnancy, and those who may become pregnant within 3 years. Used alone or in combination with ultraviolet light for severe cases. Side effects: drying of the skin, lips, and eyes.

Cyclosporine – an immuno-suppressant drug. Monitoring of blood pressure and kidneys is essential.

A cure Not yet!

Research is progressing the understanding of the immune system’s response to the disease and any underlying genetic causes.

The Society is pleased to reproduce the following treatment regime offered by one of its readers:

I had suffered with scalp psoriasis since childhood. Occasionally it would disappear but then flare up again. After research on the Internet, something leads me to believe that there was a relationship between psoriasis and arthritis, which my family is particularly afflicted with. Six months ago, I stopped eating foods of the Nightshade family e.g., tomatoes, white potatoes, peppers, chili peppers, cayenne, paprika, pimento and aubergine (eggplant). My psoriasis which was always part of my life disappeared almost immediately and my scalp felt better.

I have not eaten foods containing tomato or potato for months and would prefer to go without them in the future than go back to the itching and problems of psoriasis. Perhaps this might give some other Psoriasis sufferers some hope.

@hairscientists.org

It starts with sitting in the perfect chair. Something that suits your salon style, comfortable and makes it easy for you, the barber, to create with pride.

BARBERS chairs

BAT MAN

WHISTLER

BLACKBIRD TEXTURED BLACK

PANTHER

BLACKBIRD TEXTURED BLACK

SMP and now BMP!! BEARD MICROPIGMENTATION.

BY LUCAS SMITH

SMP or Scalp Micropigmentation has been around for a little while, the technology with tools, inks and more has been moving at a steady rate to mirror its popularity.

As barbers I think we should be all over it to advise our clients as to the advancements in this space and in this area, it’s on guys heads…. that’s our turf!!

I thought I’d reach out to Lucas Smith of SMP Gold Coast who got his qualifications in Italy and the USA to become one of Australia’s leading SMP Techs. If you haven’t noticed yet, you soon will. Every second barber in the USA getting on board with this and it’s bound to take of here big time as well. It already is right now according to my research into this story.

It’s like a 2 week and sometimes 1 week course but if you dive in, get a mentor at the early stages of your foray into this area. Hit Lucas up, he has indicated to me he sees a wave coming and will take on people to mentor. Being a veteran of 6 years in SMP and 13 years in hair transplants, he feels the training in a week or two is inadequate and would like to be at the front line of professionals that can help guide the industry to ensure and maintain high standards of work and of the practice itself. Lucas will be barbershop magazines guy on the ground in this space as you know, we go to the top of the tree for our info. Next issue we will unpack hair transplants and todays advancements in that space.

Here we get the answers some general questions on this topic so we can inform our clients about SMP and BMP.

What is exciting now? Beards!! Have a look at the results here. Please understand, 99% of Lucas’ clients want to remain anonymous so most of the images are stock from research I’ve done.

How long have you been practicing scalp micro-pigmentation and tell us about your business?

I’ve been a Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) specialist for 6 years. In the industry of hair restoration for 13 years as a hair transplant technician.

I grew up in a family of barbers, so it feels like my whole life has been leading up to this. SMP being the most rewarding and I’m most proud of, owning one of the original SMP clinics in Australia. After 6 years, I’d call myself a veteran in the industry. Over the years, I’ve watched the industry blow up with Australia in step to be the next super stars of SMP. So many great artists are doing great work and I’m proud to be one of them. Job satisfaction for me is off the charts, as I can help in a small way to make a massive difference in someone’s life.

What type of training have you received in scalp micro-pigmentation to become a technician?

I’m 2 X Certified with a master class from Italy under my belt. I’ve also branched out into colour theory in the USA to further my education. You can never have too many certificates. In my opinion, there should be a lot more training that’s on offer for people looking to get started in the SMP field. Tattoo artists or barbers need to be an apprentice for a certain amount of years before they are qualified and so should SMP artists. That’s why I’m offering a mentorship program to support new artists as their journey begins. Or, even if you are an experienced SMP artist, I offer that too. Shadowing you in your clinic or you are welcome to come and sit with me to learn the technique that I use. Send me photos and I’ll guide you in the right direction. Ongoing support is a must have and networking with other artists can open up avenues for new technique development. This industry is still really in its infancy, so It’s crucial that we take a step in the right direction. Training and support will be the ticket to success.

Tell us all about moving onto beards. Beard Micropigmentation has really taken off in the last year or so as the techniques and equipment have advanced to a point now that, with a skilled artist, can create hyper realistic results that can be as subtle or bold as your situation needs. Beards are becoming my most favourite areas to tattoo. It’s really fun and I still surprise myself how good it looks. Patchy beards are my most common request to fill in. Just like a hairline, a patchy beard, or no beard at all can be the same confidence killer. We look at ourselves in the mirror every day and we are our own worst critics, especially with the harsh down lights of a bathroom. Being able to offer a permanent solution to both scalp and beards is a breath of fresh air. If you think about how many women have eyebrow micro blading or lip blush, why wouldn’t beards be as popular? Well, they are, we just need to talk about it more. Beard micropigmentation is as fine or even finer than a scalp tattoo, meaning subtlety is key. My clients find this approach a bit easier to swallow and not so scary.

Patchy beards are the devil and can make some guys look scruffy. Even after the first session, beards look sharper and more manicured, instantly cleaning up your appearance. A big step towards feeling confident in the morning getting ready to go smash the day, that’s what this is all about. We do things to make ourselves feel better every day, like getting a fresh haircut or new shirt, going to the gym, or putting on a new fragrance. look after your beards my bearded brethren.

How do you determine the appropriate pigment colour for a client’s scalp or beard?

I use a high-quality pigment made for SMP out of Italy. Knowing what shade to choose is based on skin tone, hair colour and desired outcome. We always start lighter and build darker over the sessions with the pigment tone. This creates a natural contrast that tattoo realism needs. SMP is not a “one size fits all” treatment. We consider many factors including age. Even grey-haired guys can use SMP as a solution. We mix black with a diluting solution to make different shades from dark to light and count every drop to go in your chart for future reference. It’s a very precise method.

What equipment and materials do you use in the scalp micropigmentation process?

I use the highest quality SMP specific equipment. With so many tattoo machines on offer, typically rotary pens that come in different shapes and sizes to fit your hand or style of tattooing. I’ve tried out a hell of a lot of different machines including wireless pens. These are great if you like to move around a lot, but I always end up back with the lightest, smallest machine I can find. My clinic is somewhat of a museum of tattoo machines. I’m sure barbers can relate with their tools of the trade.

What Needles do we use?

I’m across the board with the whole range of needles used in SMP. Needles come in sterilized packs as disposable cartridges. These are really convenient and hygienic to use, and we can quickly change out for a new needle. I typically use 1-3 cartridges per session.

Needle size is the next selection we need to make that has an impact on the desired look we are going for. Super fine would need a single needle vs a bold choice that would be a grouping of 3 needles together resulting in a slightly larger dot. There are so many brands of SMP needles now that it can be tricky to navigate. My advice is to stick to the big brands and find a needle that feels comfortable and gives you the best results possible.

How do you ensure the safety and sterility of your equipment and materials?

All of the equipment is meticulously cleaned and covered. The majority of it is disposable. I take pride in my high standards of hygiene for my clinics. You might feel like you’re stepping into a doctor’s office or dental clinic with the same level of standards, just cooler because you’re getting your beard back.

What is your process for designing the hairline for a client’s scalp or beard? Do you shave first before the procedure or just clipper close?

SMP looks its best with a close shave or at least a 0 with the clippers. Most guys are already shaving their heads or face for years before getting this procedure done so they’re quite used to it. On the day I trim you down if needed and draw in the hairline. I take my time with this, taking into consideration the shape you would like and my professional advice. Beards are much the same. The subtle nuances in the shape of the beard are what get me excited.

How do you manage any discomfort or pain that a client may experience during the procedure?

SMP is a cosmetic tattoo that isn’t as deep as a traditional body art tattoo. Meaning it’s much less painful. My clients say it’s a 2/10 and can get through each session watching Netflix, listening to tunes or even falling asleep. If you’ve had a tattoo before, you’ll breeze through the sessions.

What is your aftercare protocol for clients following the scalp micropigmentation procedure?

Keep it clean first and foremost. You can wear a hat when in the sun and follow the aftercare instructions/products provided. SMP is a shallow tattoo, meaning you are going to have to protect it from the sun’s UV rays. I recommend using an SPF 50 sunscreen. Some sunscreens have a mattifying property that takes the shine off the scalp that enhances your SMP. Make sure to look after your skin as much as possible. Moisturise between sessions and after to keep your skin in tip top condition. Your SMP will thank you for it and last longer.

Do you offer any guarantees or touch-up sessions for clients who are not satisfied with the final results?

SMP can last up to 4-5 years before needing a touch up. It really is personal opinion of when that touch up needs doing. Each client I get to know over the sessions, and I can get a good understanding of how they want their treatment to look. Bold or subtle. Having 3 sessions gives us both opportunities to make any changes regarding the darkness or hairline shape so It’s not often the case of an unsatisfied client. I do offer a guarantee for up to 12 months free as an extra security, but it’s rarely used.

What is the average approximate cost of the procedure for a scalp only and also a beard only?

Price depends on the size of the area that’s of concern. $800 -$3500 for scalps and $600- $1600 for beards. In comparison to all other forms of hair restoration, SMP is the most affordable. Hair transplants can be in the 10’s of thousands with little guarantee. Don’t get me wrong, I’m an advocate for all forms of hair restoration and hair transplants are fantastic for someone who just wants real hair. The price point of SMP, however, is why it’s gaining popularity all over the world and Australia is about to take off, following the likes of the UK and the states. An affordable permanent solution with minimal maintenance, that’s a win in my books all day.

Kasho Scissors give me the edge when I need to perform at the highest level for the most demanding clients

BLOG SPOT.

Community is everything WITH Lance Liufau

I was recently featured on a podcast called the Unspoken Podcast; this podcast is based around mental health. One of the questions I was asked was, how important is community? I thought about this question for a moment and the answer that came to me was obvious.

Our barbershops/salons are nothing without community! If you think about it for one second, without those people walking through our doors, we would have nothing but an empty shop with a whole lot of barbers/stylists that know how to cut hair without any hair to cut.

So, from that question, I have been thinking about something for the past few days. That is, if community is important to a barbershop, then how important is a barbershop to the community. I personally believe that a barbershop is vital to a community, there are a few reasons why I feel this way, so let’s dive deep into those reasons.

One of the major reasons why I feel a barbershop is vital to a community is not the obvious, which is to make people look and feel good about themselves. As much as those a very important reasons, it is not the first thing I think of. But more so because of the safe space that it provides people from all walks of life, to come through and speak whatever is on their minds and hearts at that very moment. They also know that it will be received without question or judgement and whatever is said will remain within those four walls.

Being that we as barbers are in a perfect position to speak to our clients for a decent amount of time, and we are able to build a rapport with them.

Most of the time our clients barriers are lowered, and trust is formed between barber and client. Therefore, the outpour of life experience and trials begin to flow. A client will sometimes feel incline to share secrets that they would not even tell their best of friends. Which might sound like a burden that you don’t want to carry but if you can differentiate work from your personal life and leave everything that you hear at work behind once you have locked those shop doors. Then it does not weigh down on you as much as you might think it does. I guess being that the podcast I was on was based around mental health, this was probably the reason why I was invited to be on it.

The next reason why I feel barbershops are crucial within a community, is the fact that it is used for a place of gathering. I don’t know how many times I have had 7 high school students enter the barbershop and only 2 of them are getting haircuts. But while they all wait for their mates to finish getting their haircuts, the rest hang out and talk and laugh and play amongst each other. Which in my eyes is what the barbershop is about, playful banter between friends and camaraderie.

Or you have tradie mates who both finished work at the same time and raced down to the shop to see who will get there first.

Then there is my personal favourite, 2 mates who haven’t seen each other in a long period of time, sometimes we’re talking years, bump into each other in the waiting area and you now get to witness a reunion of friends that kicks off a massive catch up and sharing of life stories and experiences. This is my favourite because in this day and age we tend to go about our lives without actually catching up with friends in the physical form. We also subconsciously feel like we have seen people already because we’ve viewed what they are doing on social media, and we have commented on it. Whereas in the barbershop, it’s all up close and personal.

Lastly I want to touch on ‘CONFIDENCE’.

Part of our job is to help every person that sits in our chair, leave feeling like they can take on the world, because they look their best and they feel like a million bucks. We do that by providing the best service we can and recommend a style that suits them and execute to the best of our ability. Another way that we can help our clients feel confident, is by breathing life into them. I advise you as members of our barbering community to try your best to speak positively, speak kindly and uplift those around you. In doing this the morale within your shop will rise and your team will feed off your energy and replicate the same to their clients.

In conclusion I will say this, ‘Community is everything’ to a barbershop. But the ‘Barbershop is also vital’ to the community.

Lance Liufau aka TopShelf Barber IG: @lance_topshelfbarber

BLOG SPOT.

Surviving Today’s Climate To Flourish Tomorrow WITH Jimmy O’Brien

2023 has started with a bang. There’s so much happening in the barber world right now and we’re truly blessed to have everything behind us after the last couple of hard years.

There are a few things that everyone should be working on right now, but the most important one, I believe, is your business plan. What is the future? It’s education!

With staff shortages across the whole industry, we really need to act now to prepare ourselves for the years to come. There’s a lot of young kids that want to become barbers. Right now, we are experiencing the biggest explosion in the industry since I’ve been in it. One thing I need to address is that shops need to put on apprentices. I cannot stress this enough.

One tool that shop owners can use is sponsorships; look into immigration lawyers and find out how you can do a sponsorship for some amazing barbers that are coming across to our shores right now. We all need to work together to build an industry that we all can be proud of.

I started at the humble age of 16 as an apprentice Barber at a shop called TJ’s. I worked for a bloke called Terry Walsh for five years. I learnt a lot in that time before opening my first door. I didn’t start a shop; I bought an old Barber shop that had been in the area of Oxley for 50 years.

My second store I bought and the third store I took over one that was already set up. It wasn’t till my 4th shop that I built my own. There’s been a lot of scary moments in my career, but one lesson that has taught me the most fundamentally important thing, and that was being explained, in detail, sales vs wages.

Business plan it… Plan it out…if you have one already, that’s amazing if you don’t, start now but always update your business plan every year. I’ve already done my business plan for all my businesses for this year.

For me, this includes sales targets and wages targets, expansion for new stores and renovating existing stores. It is your Bible in business. The big things in my business plans are staff, rent and expansion. I’ve already locked in three more stores for this year. There are a lot of landlords out there that want to make deals at the moment so if you’re looking for your second store or your third store, make sure you do your homework; research the centre, the space and the location and make sure you build a team that is on the same page as you and ne that is loyal, remembering that you must always reward them in some way.

A lot of barbers out there these days don’t know that the ‘industry standard’ is times 3. For instance, every dollar a staff member costs, they must bring in $3. This has been the industry standard for a long time. If you want future development in your stores and expansion of more stores you must stick to having sales targets, wage costs and not expensive leases. I see a lot of big shops now that are 50/60 square metres with only two chairs. It looks great but how much rent could you save yourself if you had a 20 to 30 square metre shop with two chairs. Personally, I think the days of big stores are coming to an end.

The five/ six chair Barber shops is where it’s at in my opinion. Keeping your wage costs to between 30% to 40% and rent at 10%. Working out which barbershop model you want to work the business into is paramount.

There’s a lot of different Barber shops out there, from your walkin Barber shop doing 15/20-minute haircuts, to your appointment Barber shop catering for 30/40-minute appointments.

It’s important to know your point of difference. For us, we always look at the area, the clientele, the space in the shopping centre or the strip of shops. Then we work out our point of difference from the Barber Shops in the area and, what we can we do different. I can’t stress enough about retail sales. Retail sales should be a minimum 10/15% of your turnover, so make sure you have a few different ranges of products.

An entry level range of products, mid-range products and if you have the clientele, high-end range products. Always make sure that sales reps are helping you train your staff to become successful in your retail sales.

To wrap it up- what are your goals for this year?

What are your goals for next year and what are your goals for years to come? Write them in your business plan.

Be humble, be kind and be friendly. Treat your staff with respect. Treat competitors with respect and you don’t have something nice to say don’t say it at all. You never know what someone’s going through in their life.

We must be kind, work together and build an industry that we are all proud to be part of. Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.

Live fast look sharp, I’m Jimmy Rod!

@jimmyrods

BLOG SPOT.

BEYOND THE BARBER CHAIR WITH Anna De Sanctis

Wowza! The new kid on the block, what an honour. This year I want to cover some very important topics so buckle up and let’s dive straight in… firstly, mental health.

With the silly season gone, most of you would have worked tirelessly during this time. Most probably putting aside your own mental and physical health to fit ALL your loyal clients in for their pre-Christmas fade.

Undoubtedly the new diet is underway, you’ve joined a new gym, possibly even checked your 2023 yearly horoscope. Between us, I’ve even looked at what ol’ mate Nostradamus has predicted for 2023. He makes some massive predictions and some obvious ones, Global Warming. He’s predicted that temperatures - and sea levels - would continue to rise and the world’s supply of fish would dry up… nobody tell Don! The one thing that helps us disconnect from the grind, is to be over 20kms out at sea, in the beautiful Yorke Peninsula, with no phone coverage and no hustle. Just us, catching enough fish to feed a small army of our nearest and dearest.

In all seriousness though, while preparing for 2023, particularly after what the last couple of years has presented us with, you may be experiencing feelings of an overwhelming nature or anxiousness. Unfortunately, this isn’t unusual. It’s for this reason, that I want to bring awareness to the very important topic of mental health.

Leading into the opening of Barbery the Craft of a Barber Academy in 2016, I knew that there would be an element of mental health involved when interacting with students and my staff, but nothing could have quite prepared me for what was to come.

A client of our Academy came in for a haircut from a Barbery student. We later found out that this was our clients last haircut, he was preparing for his death… and he later died that day by suicide. As you could imagine this crippled the morale of both students and staff of the Academy, however it’s the sad reality.

This dreadful incident gave me the urge to continue to educate myself on the topic of mental health. I reached out to Mental Health First Aid Australia (MHFA) and enrolled to undertake a standard MHFA course, covering topics such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse and suicide. I learnt the crucial 5 step program to construct a healthy conversation with those that may be suffering from a mental illness, enabling me to provide the correct resources.

In Australia one in five people suffer from a mental illness. One in eight men will experience depression and one in five men will experience anxiety at some stage of their lives. Did you know that blokes make up an average seven out of every nine suicides every single day? The number of men who die by suicide in Australia every year is nearly double the national road toll. Those statistics are shocking and why it was so important for me to introduce mental health into our students learning.

Completing my renewal MHFA course meant I could have a healthy conversation with my students, reassuring them that they had a safe place to go and that they belonged. They discuss their personal matters, the societal expectations in today’s world including social, cyber and verbal bullying, depression, anxiety and frighteningly, their suicidal thoughts that some had experienced. You name it, I heard it!

From this, my focus was to build resilience, encourage professional support, continue course completion all whilst maintaining student retention.

My interest in mental health grew and I continued my studies, becoming an accredited MHFA Instructor. Not only did I want to provide MHFA, but I wanted to teach and educate others so that they too could provide MHFA to their family, friends, work colleagues and clients. To remove the stigma.

Late last year I received a wonderful piece of feedback, a real highlight. A first-year apprentice utilised their MHFA training, in shop. The client left in tears, not sad, but because someone gave a damn. My heart sung. Imagine the impact this had on the barbershop and their team. Pure joy! No amount of money could substitute saving a life. I’ve always said that if we can save one life during our own lifetime, then we’re doing our job right.

I urge everyone to undertake a MHFA course, whether it be for your client who needs someone to talk to, a colleague or just yourself. MHFA reduces the stigma of mental health and provides the tools to assist in a mental health crisis, a skill you will always use both professionally and privately. MHFA have created a very convenient blended online version that I can assist you and your teams with throughout Australia. Its worth the investment.

@barberyaustralia @barberboysau

MATT E VOLUMISING STYLING POWDER

A weightless matte styling powder designed to create volume and texture, providing instant root lift with medium hold. Absorbs excess oil and is ideal on all hair types including fine and thinning hair Humidity resistant – provides long lasting control. muimports_au

BLOG SPOT.

Long Term Consistency Trumps Short Term Intensity WITH Fraser Forsey

Welcome to my first blog of 2023, my name is Fraser Forsey and I have been in the industry for 18 years as a qualified barber, hairdresser, and trainer. With over 11 years’ experience with education, I though what best can I share with you other than my learnings along the way as a barber and educator.

I wanted to share with you my thoughts around one word that is really important to me and a crucial word to the continuous success and growth in our industry, and that word is “Value”. Why is it so important for us to value what we do and every touch point in our industry?

Value can be perceived and attributed in so many different ways and avenues in our industry. From the minute we start our apprenticeship or our journey as a barber or hairdresser.

I’ve learnt over 18 years in the industry just how important it is that if we create more value within all the partners of the industry from product companies, tool companies, registered training organisations, non-accredited education facilities, expo’s, shows and events if we invest in just some of these it’s incredible the impact it has to you as individual with due time.

I bet you’re wondering how that impacts us as individuals, well I can tell you how. If you’re purchasing a product to sell in your barbershop or purchasing a product to simply buy for yourself and your own use. If that product is something from within our industry here in Australia, that product company then invests to grow their brand. Which in turn creates more opportunities

for us as creative artists. If you’re buying tools from your local wholesale or within Australia that also helps grow the demand for hair in our country and overtime is continuously given back to hair in Australia.

With simple mathematics it shows that with consistency and patience those companies then create opportunities for our industry. We become more valued in Australia as a barber or hairdresser, prices slowly increase for a haircut which in turn then wages grow showing consumers that we should be valued no different to a builder or electrician.

If you invest into the Australian hair market in the long run you are investing into yourself and creating more “Value” for you!

If you own a shop create a plan on how you can create more value for the customer or a greater experience and this will allow the customer to value your business more.

I will leave you with a quote that a good friend from the industry once told me that helped me realise, the more you give the more you receive but sometimes great things take time.

“Long term consistency trumps short term intensity”

Thank you

Fraser Forsey Lead Educator & Director - Barber Temple @barbereducationbyfraser

If there’s anything I’ve learnt in the years since I co-founded Sustainable Salons, it’s that companies that embed sustainability in their business practices win big. This is because today’s consumer understands the value of sustainability, and their values inform their behaviour.

You might still associate reducing, reusing, and recycling with the daggy, rinsed-out Ziplock bags of your childhood, but it’s having a renaissance in the most significant way possible.

Thankfully, sustainability’s glow-up means it’s no longer incompatible with the hustle and bustle of a hair salon.

As part of its glow-up, sustainability has gained in popularity, and, in my opinion, it should be the number one thing you advertise to your customers. In the same way your marketing focuses on the big results you get your clients when it comes to their hair journey, you should also focus on the big results your sustainability initiatives have for the planet.

And if you’re not engaged in any sustainability initiatives? Well, it’s time to get on board.

Your clients have changed. Maybe you’ve noticed it, or perhaps it’s slipped under your radar, but your clients are picking up on what you’re saying about yourself, and your salon’s business practices.

An excellent place to start is with your website and social media. Given that this is where new clients will come to find out more about your services and to get in touch with you, it’s the perfect place to start telling the story of your salon and using

BLOG SPOT.

Are you Sustainable?

It’s Time to Start Shouting it from the Rooftops!

with PAUL FRASCA

your eco-credentials to stand out from the crowd.

If you’re already a Sustainable Salon, your salon is already listed in Australia’s biggest directory for hair and beauty salons. But even if a customer has found you through that database, they want to see you walking the walk when they come in.

And if you’re not already a Sustainable Salon? Well, what are you waiting for? You can do good for your local community, for our shared planet AND your bottom line. More customers will find you, they’ll appreciate that you’re about more than gorgeous highlights, and they’ll come back again and again (and again).

Even if you’re not ready to become a Sustainable Salon, I’m sure you’re doing something good for the planet and your community. Whether it’s phasing out plastic or recycling, these are all things your community and your clients want to know.

In the 1980s, the United Nations defined sustainability as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It’s not just about environmentalism but also social and economic needs.

That’s why at Sustainable Salons, we’re not just keen to get people recycling. We partner with hair, beauty, barber, pet, and dermal industry professionals to offer free services to people experiencing job loss and homelessness. We employ people of all abilities or those who are otherwise underserved by traditional employment structures.

Think about what you already do and what

changes you can make to boost your credibility in the sustainability space:

Do you get your electricity from a renewable provider?

Do you support a local charity?

Do your staff participate in an annual fun run for a good cause?

Do you stock eco-friendly haircare brands?

Do you partner with charities to provide free consultations, advice or treatments for people going through cancer treatment?

This list is far from comprehensive, but if you stop and think, I’m sure you’re engaged in communitybuilding or environmental initiatives of some sort.

Sustainability is no longer the domain of the ultracrunchy; everyone is getting into it, from familyowned grocery stores to multinational companies.

The hair industry is becoming more and more aware of the impact they are having on the planet. They are realising that the products and equipment they use are impacting the environment in a negative way, however, they are also realising that they can be a part of the solution. So, you can keep cutting, keep foiling and keep creating, while also keeping these materials in circulation and out of landfill.

Clients aren’t interested in slogans and greenwashing; they want to know precisely what the businesses they support are doing.

Your clients understand that every single one of their actions has an environmental consequence, right down to the salon they choose. Effectively communicating your dedication to keeping the planet habitable will put your clients’ minds at ease. They’ll know you’re the ones they can trust, and you know they’ll come back next time they’re in need of a cut.

You don’t have to start washing out your used Ziplock bags, but you do have to start talking to your clients about what’s important to them, and there is no better new year’s resolution.

Keen to join the movement?

Scan the QR code to learn more

Business Essentials

BY CHADSTONE GREGORY PIERCE TURNER

Some old stuff here and some new stuff here, I see so many entities in our industry, including myself, get a little lazy with our digital presence and footprint, rehash the importance of each platform and embrace the importance of each by reading these up-to-date basics… keep on yours and keep it up to date!

In today’s world, digital marketing is crucial for any business to survive and thrive. This is especially true for small businesses like barber shops, where reaching new customers and retaining existing ones can make all the difference.

In this article, we will explore how digital marketing can benefit small businesses, specifically barber shops, and how to make the most of popular platforms like Google, Google Maps, Instagram, and Websites. Lastly we will share news on how to soon obtain the Holy Grail of coolness…The Blue Tick!! Oh yeah…it’s here!.

THE POWER OF GOOGLE AND GOOGLE MAPS

Google is the world’s most popular search engine, and your new customers first contact with you 99% of the time, and as a small business owner, you want to ensure that your barber shop appears in relevant search results. You really want to make sure your Google listing is STRONG.

To achieve this, you need to ensure that your business is listed on Google My Business, a free platform that allows you to create and manage your business listing on Google Maps and Search. Creating a Google My Business listing is easy and only takes a few minutes. Once your listing is live, you will be able to manage your business information, respond to customer reviews, and post updates, all of which will help your barber shop appear more prominently in Google’s search results.

THE POWER OF GOOGLE REVIEWS

Google reviews are essential for any small business, and barber shops are no exception. Google reviews are a hugely powerful tool for building trust with potential customers, as they provide social proof that your barber shop delivers quality service. Think about it, when you choose a new service or business how driven are you by the reviews?

As a business owner, you should actively encourage your customers to leave a review on Google. Ask every one of them. You can also do this by including a call to action in your email signature or on your website. Respond to your to reviews within 48 hours, responding to both positive and negative reviews is also essential, as it shows that you value your customers’ feedback and are committed to providing the best possible service.

INSTAGRAM AND ITS UNIQUE FEATURES

With over one billion active users, Instagram provides small businesses like barber shops with a unique opportunity to reach new customers and build a loyal following. Yes it’s time consuming and fickle but you need to be in the game, our industry is image driven.

To make the most of Instagram, you need to create a business account and optimize your profile with your barber shop’s logo, contact information, and a call-to-action. Then, you can begin posting high-quality photos and videos of your barber shop, your team, and your customers.

Using hashtags and geotags is also essential on Instagram, as they help your posts reach a wider audience. Finally, Instagram Stories and reels are a great way to showcase your barber shop’s personality and engage with your followers. Use Instagram’s builtin features like polls, quizzes, and stickers to make your Stories interactive and fun.

WHY A WEBSITE IS CRUCIAL TO ANY BUSINESS

In addition to Google and social media, a website is a crucial component of any small business’s digital marketing strategy. A website provides your barber shop with a professional online presence and allows potential customers to learn more about your services and book appointments.

Your website should include information about your barber shop’s history, services, prices, and contact information. It should also have a booking system that allows customers to schedule appointments online. A blog is also an excellent addition to your website, as it allows you to share your expertise and engage with your customers.

TIPS AND HINTS TO MAXIMIZE RESULTS FROM ALL PLATFORMS

To maximize your results from all digital marketing platforms, follow these tips and hints:

1. Consistency is key. Post regularly on social media, respond to reviews promptly, and update your website regularly.

2. Use high-quality visuals. High-quality photos and videos are more likely to capture your audience’s attention and create engagement.

3. Engage with your followers. Respond to comments, direct messages, and reviews promptly (within 48 hours), and create interactive content that encourages your followers to engage with your barber shop.

4. Monitor your analytics. Use Google Analytics and social media analytics tools to track your performance

The All-Important Blue Tick Verification Symbol

Soon to be yours…for about $19 a month!

Meta, the parent company of social media giants Facebook and Instagram, has announced a new feature that allows users to apply for a blue verification tick on their profile for a fee. This move has been met with mixed reactions from users, but for small businesses, it could be a game-changer.

First, let’s understand what the blue verification tick means. It’s a symbol that appears next to a user’s name on their profile,

indicating that their account is authentic and belongs to a public figure, celebrity, or brand. It helps to distinguish real accounts from impersonators, which can be a significant issue on social media platforms.

Until now, the blue tick was given out at the discretion of the platform’s staff, based on criteria that were not always clear. With the new feature, users can apply for the blue tick by proving their identity and providing relevant information about themselves. And, of course, by paying a fee.

So why would a small business want to pay for a blue verification tick? Here are three reasons:

1. Establishing Credibility

As a small business, it can be challenging to establish credibility and build trust with potential customers. Having a blue verification tick can go a long way in showing that your business is legitimate and trustworthy. It can also help to differentiate your business from competitors who may not have a verified account.

2. Increasing Visibility

When someone searches for your business on social media, having a blue tick next to your name can help you stand out from the crowd. It can also improve your search rankings, making it easier for potential customers to find your business online.

3. Protecting Your Brand

Impersonators can be a significant problem on social media, particularly for businesses. Having a verified account can help to prevent others from using your brand name or logo to deceive people. It can also make it easier for your customers to find your official account and avoid being scammed by imposters. Of course, there are some potential downsides to this new feature. It could create a two-tiered system on social media, where only those who can afford to pay for verification get the blue tick. It could also lead to an increase in spam accounts or scammers who try to exploit the system.

Overall, the new pay-for-verification feature from Meta could be a beneficial tool for small businesses looking to establish credibility, increase visibility, and protect their brand on social media. It remains to be seen how the feature will be received by users and how it will affect the platform in the long run, but it’s certainly something for small business owners to keep an eye on.

@chadstonegregorypierceturner

BUSINESS OLD SCHOOL!

TIME: THE NEW CUSTOMER SERVICE

BY MARIO AND DION FALLACE, NEW YORK BARBERS

In the hair industry, we are nothing without our clients. If it wasn’t for them, and their loyalty, we would have no business. This is why it is vital to always stay on top of your customer service levels and be seeking to always improve them.

In particular, time management comes into play a lot in barbershops. The nature of men’s hair means the services are quicker (compared to hairdressing), and most guys don’t want to be spending hours getting their hair done, especially if they will be back in 2-4 weeks to do it all again.

Our clients’ time, just like ours, is valuable. Acknowledging this, is really going to boost your customer service and satisfaction. From the moment a client walks in your barbershop to the moment they walk out, there a few different touchpoints where paying attention to time can greatly improve your customer service:

GREETING YOUR CLIENTS

When a client walks into your salon, you want to be greeting them as soon as you can. The last thing you want is for them to be awkwardly standing around waiting to be acknowledged - this can also be uncomfortable for the client too. If you are an appointment-based shop then they can just sit down, however if you take walk-ins, you ideally want to inform them to take a seat and inform them of the waiting time, or if you run a list, get them to put their name down. This is where having an apprentice or receptionist manning the front desk (if possible) will ensure you tick this box every time.

WAITING TIMES & MANAGING CLIENTS

The reality is, especially for walk-in based barbershops, on busy days the wait time can get quite long. You want to be upfront to your clients about how long it will be before you can get to them. Remember, their time is valuable. This is also where a check-in system works very well. You can put clients’ names down on the list, meaning you can keep track of how many people are waiting and who’s turn it is next. Also, it allows the client to come back later and still save their spot, rather than having to wait in the barbershop for the whole duration of the wait time so they don’t lose their spot. This ensures the clients can make better use of their time. No one likes waiting too long for something - this keeps them happy!

CLIENT CONSULTATION

When the client is in your chair, you want to jump right into the consultation about how they would like their hair done and

obtaining information about how/what they would like completed. The chit-chat can come later. Consultations and figuring out what your clients are wanting, ensuring you are both on the same page as we know can sometimes take some time. Don’t prolong this by jumping right into conversation about something else. The quicker you get the consultation out the way, the quicker you can start the service, and then dive into chatting with your clients whilst delivering the service.

TIME TAKEN TO COMPLETE THE SERVICE

The first three touchpoints are really important to pay attention to in regard to time. However, one of, if not the most important points to be aware of is how long you actually spend on each client and completing their services in a timely manner. Of course, you should not be rushing the service, but you do want to ensure you are not taking too much of your clients time, or more than what is necessary - especially if they have already been waiting a while.

If you are appointment based, then you need to ensure you are keeping within your time slots, so you don’t delay other clients.

If you are walk-in based, time management is super important. Generally, you will have other clients waiting or very quickly an influx of customers may arrive. Because you don’t have time slots to work with, being aware of how long each service is taking you, is a key to customer satisfaction.

This comes from experience and expertise and having a step by step system that you run though with each haircut or barber service. Distractions, like getting carried away with conversations, answering the phone, etc. are detrimental to completing services on time.

You must not forget your client’s time is valuable - don’t waste it!

So, by managing clients’ time (and your own time) and being consistent with this, clients will remain loyal to your barbershop because they can get what they are looking for without giving up half of their day just to get a haircut. It is also vital to ensure the concept of time management is observed by the whole team to ensure consistency throughout your business.

@newyorkbarbers

NEWS & GEAR.

Surf Tonic Spray BY REUZEL

Reuzel Surf Tonic offers instant volume and texture, creating a windblown style with a messy, matte finish. This hair spray can be layered with any Reuzel product and adds grip and control, exaggerating the hair’s natural appearance.

Surf Tonic features Reuzel’s unique T4 Tonic Blend of Witch Hazel, Nettle Leaf, Rosemary, and Horsetail Root to strengthen, moisturise and add shine to hair while naturally tightening pores.

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Big News for HEADHUNTER in 2023

He is the night. He is the Bat man. Inspired by the dark crusader, the bat man is a super strong and sleek barber’s chair for the dark knights who love everything black. With all Matte Black Metal details, the design features horizontal stripes upholstery while the comfortable and supportive seat is firm and well supported. Available from Comfortel Salon Furniture. www.comfortel.com.au

Firme Hold Pomade SUAVECITO

Suavecito Firme Hold Pomade kicks it up a notch by creating a strong, lasting hold with a healthy, natural shine. This hair styling pomade is water reactivable, making it great for restyling and reshaping throughout the day. Its creamy consistency slides effortlessly through hair, creating fierce slickbacks, pompadours, and side parts.

www.thehaircaregroup.com

For almost three years, HeadHunter Recruitment has pushed to become a trusted resource for Hairdressing and Beauty businesses to advertise their job vacancies and connect business owners with the right candidates. We have grown and evolved in that time, providing a vast range of new options and services to help businesses in need.

Just some of the other exciting improvements in the new look HeadHunter Recruitment include:

Candidates will be able to view job search results, and job details on the one screen, making the search and review process faster. Advanced filters will be available for narrowing down search results.

- Candidates will be matched to positions via the ‘jobs you may like’ section.

- Candidates will also be able to bookmark different positions of interest.

- Automatic email of relevant jobs can be sent to interested and matched job seekers.

- Improved candidate management and screening processes.

- Pricing will be streamlined and competitive, especially for AHC and ABIC members, who receive $100 off every job ad.

TOMMY GUNS Opens in NZ

Tommy Gun’s is excited to be delivering their legendary customer experience, service, and retail offering to a whole new market with the opening of their first New Zealand barbershop at Glenfield Mall in Auckland!

In partnership with local business owner, Ghanum Taylor, this marks the first of multiple locations in New Zealand as Tommy Guns delivers their signature customer experience across the ditch.

The second location is already underway and is scheduled to open on April 13th in Auckland’s biggest shopping centre, Sylvia Park. The response from barbers and customers alike has already been incredible, with rave reviews from all-comers.

Scalp Treatment and Hair Food By VITAMAN

Scalp Treatment is naturally anti-bacterial and helps to calm, itchy, oily, or dandruff-prone scalp conditions. It’s also excellent for combatting psoriasis.

Super nourishing formula features Kakadu Plum Fruit Extract, Blue Cypress Oil and a unique combination of hydrating botanicals sourced from the Australian Outback to revitalise dry scalps. This powerful treatment can be used regularly as an intensive rinse-out treatment or as a light leave-in conditioner.

Hair Food is formulated to stimulate hair growth by supplying natural extracts and proven nutrients to the hair follicle. It acts as a nutrient rich tonic that combines unique ingredients specially designed to strengthen your hair.

Sourced from the Australian Outback, VITAMAN’s Hair Food features natural ingredients like White Tea Leaf Extract, Argan Kernel Oil, Sage Extract, Evening Primrose Oil and all-important Saw Palmetto.

www.vitaman.pro @vitamanglobal

RETIRED BARBER gives FREE HAIRCUTS and donates his tips to help poor South Africans.

In the basement of a Minnesota retirement home, in a workshop-turned-barber shop, Tom Gorzycki is doing what he’s done for 70 years — cutting hair. While the haircuts are free, tips are expected and appreciated, but they aren’t for him.

Gorzycki learned to cut hair in the Navy, then perfected his skills over 36 years at his Minneapolis barber shop. Now, the 87-year-old retiree uses those skills to help the poorest people of South Africa.

“There’s a need and I have resources. That’s what you do,” Gorzycki said. Gorzycki and his wife, Mary, saw that need firsthand 10 years ago with the organization “Arm in Arm in Africa.”

He became determined to help, so he set up shop in the basement of the Minneapolis retirement home where he lives. Once a week, he offers free haircuts in exchange for donations to “Arm in Arm in Africa.” The money, Gorzycki said, goes to people who need it more than himself or his friends. In the five years since he set up shop, Gorzycki has raised $13,000 cutting hair. He’s donated thousands more from his personal savings.

“As long as my hands are steady, I’ll just keep doing it,” he said. “One person can make a difference. You just roll up your sleeves and do what the heck you can.”

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Ultra-chic black with gold details. With stainless steel hand-honed blades, Iceman Blaze Hairdressing Scissors are designed to cater to all cutting and barbering techniques. Blade lengths from 5-7”.

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Collection is a new collection of hot tube brushes, long barrel hot tube brushes and paddle brush. Brushworx, the brush authority.

UNLIMITED CORDLESS RUNTIME

You don’t quit and neither should your tools. The power of unlimited cordless runtime is now in your hands with BaBylissPRO SNAPFX Dual Battery Clipper and Trimmer. Revolutionary industry first!

DEDICATED TO MEN

Introducing Screen for Man, the Italian all-male hair and skin care line. Quality ingredients, sophisticated formulations and sublime results. Styling products, shaving products, daily shampoos, conditioner and more.

For more information: call Dateline Imports on (02) 9666 3611 or visit datelineimports.com.au