Two Apprentices, One Dream and a Barbershop Built on Friendship.

KNUCKLEHEADS

By Anthony Gray, MIG Training

Some businesses are born out of necessity, others from a stroke of luck. But for Michael Vernon-Livingston and Luke Grevell, Knuckleheads Barbershop was the natural evolution of their shared journey—two different paths, one ultimate goal.

Finding the Calling

For Michael, the road to barbering began after three years in Canada. Returning home in 2020, he found himself in quarantine, reflecting on his next steps. A conversation with longtime friend and barber, Roddy Machray, sparked inspiration. “I’ve always loved talking to people and hearing their stories. I wanted a way to help people, and barbering seemed like the perfect fit,” Michael recalls.

Luke’s story, on the other hand, was shaped by his best mate. “I had never even been to a barber before,” he laughs. “But my mate started his apprenticeship and needed someone to practice on. I was captivated by the atmosphere and the industry as a whole, so I pursued an apprenticeship myself.”

Both men recognised early on that barbering was more than just cutting hair. It was about forming connections, being part of a community, and having the ability to make someone’s day with a fresh cut and good conversation.

The Apprenticeship Journey

Michael began his training at MIG, spending six months refining his craft before securing an apprenticeship at the Barber Shed with the help of MIG Trainers Rozi and Olivia. Over the next 2.5 years, he learned the ropes while receiving continued support from his mentors at MIG. “I had great teachers who supported me, and I still stay in touch with them to this day,” Michael says.

For Luke, immersing himself in the barber shop environment helped him forge connections. “Visiting the shop where my mate was cutting gave me the chance to meet the owner and senior barbers. When the opportunity to start an apprenticeship came up, I put my hand up.”

The biggest hurdle? Confidence. “At the start, I struggled with self-belief,” Luke admits. Michael faced a different challenge—being a mature-age apprentice made it tough to find opportunities. But perseverance paid off for both. They dedicated themselves to mastering their craft, soaking up knowledge from seasoned barbers and always looking for ways to improve.

From Apprentices to Entrepreneurs

After completing their apprenticeships, Michael and Luke worked as senior barbers but felt they had outgrown their environment. “We both had a vision for a shop that focused on quality barbering, building community connections, and just having a bloody good time,” Michael explains. Knuckleheads was born. Finding the perfect location in Buddina behind the Kawana shops, they transformed an empty space in a new apartment high-rise into their dream shop. “We did a lot of the fit-out ourselves, with the help of friends and family,” Luke says. “Huge shoutout to Mat at Envious Painting and Michael’s dad, Gerry from Gerry’s Fixology.”

Crafting a Unique Barbershop Experience

Knuckleheads is more than just a place to get a haircut—it’s a space where people feel at home. The team, currently consisting of Michael, Luke, and Tara, have built an atmosphere of camaraderie and comfort. “We wanted to create a shop where people could not only get an excellent haircut but also feel like they’re hanging out with mates,” Luke says. The shop’s culture is built on inclusivity, humour, and high standards. “Sometimes, people just need a place to unwind, have a cold beer, and share their stories. We want Knuckleheads to be that place,” Michael adds.

Crafting the Perfect Cut

While both barbers love a challenge, Luke’s go-to style is the taper fade—a modern twist on a classic look. Michael enjoys anything that pushes his skills, especially detailed scissor and clipper work. But for both, the true highlight is the people. “Building relationships with our clients, having a laugh, and creating a space where they can unwind—that’s what keeps it fun,” says Luke.

Their clientele includes a mix of locals, regulars, and first-time visitors who quickly become part of the Knuckleheads family. “We’re known for giving you the perfect cut while having a good time,” Michael adds.

Overcoming Challenges & Looking Ahead

Running a business comes with its fair share of hurdles. One of the biggest challenges Michael and Luke faced was securing the funds to get started. “Finding the money to open our own shop wasn’t easy,” Michael admits. “But we believed in our vision and made it work.”

Another challenge? Worrying about individual trading days instead of looking at the bigger picture. “At first, I’d stress over one slow day rather than focusing on the week or month as a whole,” Luke explains. “Learning to step back and see the bigger picture has been a huge personal growth moment for me.”

Despite the obstacles, their passion for the industry keeps them going. “We love what we do. Every day is different, and the styles are always evolving,” says Michael. “There’s always something new to learn.”

The Future of Knuckleheads

With nearly two years under their belt, Michael and Luke are excited for what’s next. “We want to continue growing our business and strengthening our ties with the community,” says Michael. Expanding their team is also a priority. “We’re looking forward to bringing on more talented barbers who share our vision,” adds Luke.

Ultimately, their goal remains the same: to create a welcoming space where everyone feels accepted, with just the right amount of banter.

“Knuckleheads isn’t just a barbershop—it’s a place where people come to connect, laugh, and leave feeling their best,” Michael says.

With their passion, talent, and commitment to their craft, Michael and Luke have carved out more than just a barbershop—they’ve built a legacy. And for the clients who walk through their doors, Knuckleheads is more than just a haircut. It’s a place to belong.

@knuckheads_buddina. @mig_training