From the late 1800s to the 1940s barbershops were in their golden era. Men gathered, sometimes daily, for a haircut and shave, good conversation, possibly a whiskey and most importantly, community.
They were also a place of class and luxury and at their peak, it is said that barbershops rivalled taverns and pubs in terms of popularity.
Fast forward to today and it’s clear to see that barbershops have made a comeback. Style cuts and beards are on trend and personal grooming is a necessity. The rise in barbershops mean men once again have a place to be groomed and pampered and perhaps more importantly, a place that provides comradery and community.
In Ballarat and surrounds, customers seeking a barber are spoiled for choice and there is one to suit every personality.
Embracing the golden age of barbers is Mr V & Co. Barbershop in Ballarat’s The Block Arcade. The barbershop reflects 1930s luxury, with every client made to feel like a gentleman.
“We like to create the experience that every gentleman is a VIP,” says owner and master barber, Richard Thach, who dresses in a suit and hat to match the style of the shop.
“Every client that sits in the chair is the focus and has our full attention, no matter their age. We have multigenerational clients; and it is particularly special when they’re from the same family – grandfathers through to grandsons. We hope that our clients value their VIP experience and share it with future generations.”
While providing a quality haircut is part of the service, Richard believes the Mr V & Co. Barbershop experience involves much more.
“It’s about communication. We enjoy engaging with and understanding our clients.”
“There is an element of trust and integrity built into being a barber. Our clients feel our barbershop is a place where every gentleman can relax and enjoy a quality conversation while having their haircut.”
One the cutting edge of modern barbershops is Kings Crown in Redan. The place has an urban, funky, hip hop vibe which reflects owner Marty Pearce, who fitted-out the shop with everything he’d want in a man cave.
“Of course we’re about men’s haircuts but really, the place is about men’s community as a whole,” says Marty. “The resurgence in barbershops is happening because it’s what guys need and want.”
Marty’s barber skills started simply by cutting his own hair, then his son’s and then friends. As demand grew, he knew what he needed to do.
“Being a barber is a great way to be part of and build a community. My vision was to create a place for men to come and feel comfortable when getting a haircut and have a bit of a laugh along the way.
“We have a talented crew of barbers who are passionate about their craft, so everyone who comes in gets a good haircut, but they can also come in for a coffee or a beer, and the opportunity to relax.”
Creswick Barber
Standing the test of time is Geoff Johnson, who has been a barber in the Ballarat region for over 40 years. Geoff became a barber by chance, as the only male applicant for an apprenticeship in a pool of over 160 women. But from day one, he loved it.
“I started when I was 17 and I haven’t looked back,” says Geoff. “I bought Davidsons, Ballarat’s oldest barbershop, when I was 22 and I still use the old chair and the till from that shop.”
Geoff has worked at or owned some of Ballarat’s most well-known barbershops and salons. He’s seen trends come and go and he’s navigated it all.
Now Geoff is in Creswick enjoying a quieter lifestyle, but the business is as busy now as it was when based in the centre of Ballarat, with plenty of customers travelling to see him for a cut and good conversation.
“It’s the little things that keep customers coming back. I care, I listen and I remember what people tell me. I pay attention to my customers and I still have passion for what I do.”
“A haircut can be done with an upturned milkcrate, a comb and a set of scissors,” says Michael Goodman, owner of Hold Fast Barbering. “Barbering is about the person holding the tools and the experience they provide to the client.”
Hold Fast is a private home studio that provides customers with a tailored and exclusive experience.
“It’s about the lad in the chair, what they want and need. I aim to give clients an hour out of the hustle and bustle so they can walk out looking and feeling better than when they came in. There aren’t many places in our modern world where people can just be.”
Michael brings a traditional approach to his trade, rediscovering the true essence of barbering. He has an affiliation with London’s Truefitt & Hill, a company that has provided grooming products and services to gentleman since 1805.
Michael’s passion for barbering also extends to education, for himself and his customers.
“I want to keep learning so I can give my clients the best and pass on what I know to the lads. Teaching them about grooming, talking them through how to recreate the look at home, is all part of the service.”
Barbershops and services are located throughout Ballarat and surrounds. Further information can be found online.
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