NEW YORK, NY
ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER XAVIER CRUZ, BARBA MEN’S GROOMING BOUTIQUE By Ann Grenier
or years boutiques and barbershops have coexisted, separate entities serving different clients. Until now. Barba Men’s Grooming Boutique has united these two unique services in a single place, offering high-end salon services and more modestly priced traditional barbering under a single roof—all led by Xavier Cruz. With over 30 years in the industry, it is no secret Cruz has established himself as one of the best in the business. New York Lifestyles magazine sat down with Cruz to discuss his career, his upscale Barba Men’s Grooming Boutique and the all new Quarancuts Virtual Hair School. What inspired you to become a hairstylist/barber? Oh, I loved doing hair ever since I can remember. I started cutting my own hair when I was 10 years old. When my parents would send me down the street to get a cut, I always hated it as the barber would give me the same cut as everyone else. There was never a moment when I felt I stood out so, I started doing it myself. I began getting compliments. That is when I thought maybe I can start doing others! I cut my sisters hair and cousin. One day, my mother asked if I would apply her hair color. It all came so naturally to me. It wasn’t until I was 17 when I decided to make it a career. Who has influenced your personal style? It was my mentor who played a huge part in the way I style hair. He was so effortless in the way he worked. It never seemed forced and his clientele were always happy. I wanted to be like him, so I watched him and mimicked his techniques to eventually come up with my own style. Then, of course, there is George Michael. As a teenager, people often mistook me for the iconic singer. Once I was invited to a big party in Harlem in 1988. George was at the top of his career. As we were leaving the party, there were a few limo’s outside this gorgeous brownstone. Of course, the limo’s drew attention to the locals, so much so that someone yelled out, There’s George Michael pointing to me. I went along with it and waved to the crowed and my friend. The chauffeur opened the car door and greeted me as Mr. Michael and prompted me to get into the vehicle. Yes, George Michael had a big part in my look and style back in the day. Today, I am on my own. I don’t think the long, highlighted hair suits me now. 68 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JULY/AUGUST 2020
